It's the Law—Young ORV Operators
Operator Age Restrictions

Restrictions are in effect on the operation of ORVs by children under the age of 16, including a safety education requirement. There also are specific obligations that fall upon the parents or legal guardians of ORV riders under the age of 16 and upon the owners of ORVs.

Operation of 3-Wheeled ATVs

No one under the age of 16 may operate any 3-wheeled ATV.

Operation of 4-Wheeled ATVs

No one under the age of 10 may operate any 4-wheeled ATV except on private land while performing farm-related work operations.

Children who are 10 and 11 years old may operate 4‑wheeled ATVs only when all of the following conditions are met.

• ATV is being operated on land owned by the child’s parent or guardian and …
• Operator is under visual supervision (see definition below) of an adult and …
• Operator possesses a valid ORV safety certificate.

Children who are 12–15 years old may operate 4-wheeled ATVs only when both of the following conditions are met.

• Operator is under visual supervision of an adult and …
• Operator possesses a valid ORV safety certificate.
  

Visual Supervision: having direct observation with the unaided eye and the ability to come to the immediate aid of a youthful ORV operator

Operation of Other ORVs

Children under 16 may operate other ORVs (trail bikes, for example) only when both of the following conditions are met.

• Operator is under visual supervision of an adult and …
• Operator possesses a valid ORV safety certificate.

Restrictions on Crossing Roads

No child under the age of 12 may cross any street, highway, or county road while operating any ORV.

Children who are 12-15 years old may cross streets and roads (only at right angles) if they are under the visual supervision of an adult and have a valid ORV safety certificate.

Remember ... The parents or legal guardians of a child under the age of 16 are legally responsible if they permit the child under their care to violate any of the ORV laws. The owner (or person in control) of an ORV is also responsible if his or her ORV is operated by a youngster.

Summary of Young Operator Regulations