It's the Law—Iowa's Off-Road Vehicle Laws
Age Restrictions for ATV Operation

There are no age restrictions for operating an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) on private land. However, the following age restrictions apply to operation of ATVs on designated public lands and ATV Parks.

• Under 12 years of age: A person under the age of 12 shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle, including an off-road motorcycle, on a designated riding area or designated riding trail or on ice unless one of the following applies:
  • The person is taking a prescribed safety training course and operation is under the direct supervision of a certified all-terrain vehicle safety instructor.
  • ATV and off-road motorcycle riders under the age of 12 must be under the direct supervision of an adult possessing a valid drivers license. Direct supervision means maintaining visual and verbal contact at all times.
• 12 to 17 years of age: Persons between the ages of 12 and 17, inclusive, may operate on designated public lands or ice or ATV parks if they have a valid ATV safety certificate.
• Persons 18 or older: Persons age 18 and up may operate on designated public lands or ice or ATV parks without a valid ATV safety certificate.