Note: Please check individual state snowmobile regulations carefully.
Some states have no course requirements, others for certain category of riders, others for all riders.
Click here to register for the New Hampshire Safety Course on November 18 at the 2023 Sled Expo!
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Are you looking for a local safety class? Type “safety course” or “safety class” in the search box on the homepage of sledmass.com or browse the Events page.
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Read our Snowmobiling Beginners Guide
For many folks the exciting sport of snowmobiling starts with a trip to the dealer where a new snowmobile and snowmobiling outfit are purchased. Usually the dealer remembers to tell you about snowmobile registration requirements and trail pass requirements for the areas in which you will be riding. However not all dealers take the time to explain that snowmobiling can be a dangerous sport if you are not properly trained and prepared. Would you ride a motorcycle without training?
One way to drastically increase your chances of making your snowmobiling adventure a safe one for you, for your family and for other trail users is to take a snowmobile safety course. It makes sense for a couple of reasons: 1) It’s the law in Vermont for any person, 12 years of age or older, born after July 1, 1983 2) It’s the smart thing to do, and 3) you might even get a break on your snowmobile insurance.
The Vermont State Police Safety Education Program Snowmobile Safety Course is a 6 hour course designed to help you learn about safe snowmobiling. I know what you are thinking – You live and ride in Massachusetts so why take the Vermont Safety course. The answer is simple; because over 90 percent of the course is applicable to Massachusetts as well as Vermont. While riding on trails in either state, you must know how to deal effectively with snowmobile pre-ride preparation (proper dress, snowmobile safety checks, maintenance, fueling, personal supplies, snowmobile supplies, etc.), snowmobile operation in various weather conditions (snow, ice, cold, rain, etc.), snowmobile operation in hazardous terrain (curves, hills, lakes, rivers, road crossings, railroad crossing, etc.), and handling emergencies (mechanical, medical, getting stuck, getting lost, etc.).
What is taught in the snowmobile safety course?
Who should take the snowmobile safety course? In Vermont any person 12 years of age or older, born after July 1, 1983 must take and pass a snowmobile safety education course before operating a snowmobile on the Statewide Snowmobile Trail System or SSTS. The Snowmobile Safety Certificate must be carried when operating a snowmobile and presented upon demand of an enforcement officer.
When and where is the course offered? The course is offered in Massachusetts and Vermont. Check the Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts’ newsletter, or website {www.sledmass.com} or contact a local club to find when a course will be offered at a location near you.
Although snowmobiling is a potentially dangerous sport, with adequate education and training you and your family can safely enjoy this exciting winter sport. Snowmobiling must be made safe for you and the other outdoor enthusiasts you encounter along the trail. Remember the snowmobile industry’s official safety message.
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