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Age restrictions and safety certificate

Use the chart below to determine what age your child needs to be to operate a snowmobile and cross a street or highway, and when they need a snowmobile safety certificate and/or direct adult supervision to do so.

Youth snowmobile rules

Activity With safety certificate Without safety certificate Exceptions
Under 12 years of age Operate a snowmobile Yes, but only under direct adult supervision.* Yes, but only under direct adult supervision.* No certificate is required for those operating on lands owned or leased by the operator’s parent or guardian.
Under 12 years of age Cross a street or highway No No
12 - 16 years of age Operate a snowmobile Yes Yes, but only under direct adult supervision.* No certificate is required for those operating on lands owned or leased by the operator’s parent or guardian.
12 - 16 years of age Cross a street or highway Yes No

*Direct supervision is having an adult (18+) who is in constant visual contact with the unaided eye and able to provide immediate assistance if necessary.

Snowmobile safety certificate

Youth ages 12 - 16 are required to pass an approved snowmobile safety course, and must have their safety certificate on them, to operate without adult supervision or to cross streets and highways.

Snowmobile safety education training and online safety courses are recommended for all snowmobile operators. There are a two ways to get your certificate:

  • Go to michigan.storefront.kalkomey.com to find a classroom-based course.
  • Enter your zip code to search for classes near you. Materials provided by instructor.
  • Go to snowmobile-ed.com/michigan, take the course and pass exam.
  • Pay course fee and print out your safety certificate (pay only when you pass).