Michigan Snowmobile Safety Courses

Operating a snowmobile can be hazardous especially without proper safety training and responsible driving. Michigan offers over 6,200 miles of designated snowy terrain that spans through forests and privately owned lands. Before you traverse through the trails, take the snowmobile safety course to learn how to ride safer and avoid possible accidents and fatalities.

  1. Safety Education and Training

    • Michigan law requires youth snowmobile riders from age 12 to 17 to take snowmobile safety education training. A person in this age range must carry a valid snowmobile safety certificate at all times to operate a snowmobile without the direct supervision of an adult age 21 and older. The state prohibits snowmobilers from the same age range from crossing a highway or street without a snowmobile safety certificate. For all other riders, snowmobile safety training is recommended as these types of recreational vehicles can reach high speeds over ice and snowy terrain.

    Time Frame

    • The safety course is scheduled for a day and typically lasts for five hours. Snowmobile safety courses are offered during Sundays in Kalamazoo County at 3307 E. Kilgore Road in Kalamazoo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The classes are ongoing throughout the winter season and students are required to register in advance before attending a class. A snowmobile vehicle is not required upon attendance and a snowmobile safety certificate will be given once the class is completed. As of February 2011, the course fee is $25.

    Locations

    • The Michigan Department of Natural Resources website offers a searchable database of all the state-approved snowmobile classes in all counties. The database provides information of exact course locations, contact information and class dates and times. This is a useful tool for all snowmobile users to attend a course in their local area and obtain a snowmobile course certificate and license. Calhoun County residents can take the course at Convis TWP Hall at 19500 15 Mile Road in Marshall.

    Safety Tips

    • Operating a snowmobile can be quite dangerous especially for inexperienced riders. To ride safer, keep your vehicle in top mechanical condition at all times. Always wear protective gear such as insulated boots, helmet, eye protection and gloves. Avoid crossing frozen bodies of water, low strung wires and fences. Before you leave, check weather conditions and trail reports. Most Michigan snowmobiling clubs provide trail condition reports.