General Information on the New York State Safe Riders Snowmobile Safety Education Program:
New York State law requires youths ages 10 through 17 years of age to earn a safety certificate in order to gain the privilege of operating a snowmobile as an adult. Successful completion of the course requires the student to be at least 10 years old the day of the course, complete the workbook accurately, and receive a score of 75% or better on the final examination.
The course is open to anyone age 10 through 17. Pre-registration is required. Class size is limited and walk-ins will not be accepted the day of the course. There is no charge for the course. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the student to the classroom the day of training to sign a permission form. Parents and guardians are not permitted to attend the training session.
Snowmobile Operator Age Requirements:
Youth ages 14 through 17 years old may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, without adult or other supervision if they have successfully completed a snowmobile safety training course and received a Snowmobile Safety Certificate recognized by the State of New York.
If youth ages 14 through 17 years have not completed the training course, they may operate a snowmobile if accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age.
Youth ages 10 through 13 may operate a snowmobile, on lands upon which snowmobiling is allowed, if they have successfully completed a snowmobile safety training course, received a Snowmobile Safety Certificate recognized by the State of New York, and are accompanied by (within 500 feet of) a person who is at least 18 years of age.
Children less than 10 years old or less than age 14 without a safety certificate may operate a snowmobile only on lands owned or leased by their parent or guardian.
A non-resident operator who is a resident of another state or country and is the holder of a valid snowmobile safety certificate issued by that state or country shall be considered the same as the holder of a New York State Safety Certificate.