Sept. 10, 2026
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding continues to grow in popularity across Minnesota, fueled by increasingly capable machines and an extensive trail system. But with that growth comes an ongoing need to educate young riders about safe operation.
"ATVing is popular in the whole state of Minnesota," says Nicole M. Guerton, M.S., an injury prevention coordinator for Mayo Clinic Trauma Center, noting the expansion of ATV clubs and the work of volunteer and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) trail ambassadors.
ATV riding also carries significant risks, particularly for children and teens. Between 2002 and 2025, annual ATV-related fatalities in Minnesota ranged from 10 to 32, according to the Minnesota DNR. Many fatal crashes occur along road rights-of-way rather than on designated trails.
For young riders, the challenges extend beyond learning how to operate the machine.
"Some of the safety challenges particular to youth ATV riding include matching the size of the rider and the machine, decision-making ability for a large and powerful vehicle, physical development and the ability to maneuver an ATV, and proper use and fit of ATV helmets," Guerton says.
Those concerns, combined with Mayo Clinic Trauma Center data showing both a high volume of ATV injuries and significant injury severity, prompted a collaboration with the Minnesota DNR to strengthen youth safety education.
A collaboration focused on prevention
The Minnesota DNR established its ATV safety certificate program in 1984 to provide comprehensive safety and environmental education. Since 2005, Minnesota law has required riders born after July 1, 1987, to complete the safety certification program to legally operate an ATV.
"The idea behind the selected date of birth was to phase in the younger generations until eventually everyone would be required to train for safety," says Corey Wiebusch, Minnesota DNR conservation officer and recreational vehicle coordinator.
Building on that foundation, Mayo Clinic Trauma Center is working alongside the DNR to pilot an ATV safety course in Olmsted County for youth ages 10 to 15. The collaboration combines the trauma center's injury prevention expertise with the DNR's established curriculum and instructor network.
What the course teaches
Participating youth complete online instruction before attending an in-person classroom review and field day led by DNR personnel. During the hands-on evaluation, students demonstrate the riding skills they learned online.
The course covers:
- Basic ATV operation, including starting, stopping, turning and maneuvering over obstacles.
- Environmental stewardship while riding.
- Minnesota ATV laws and regulations.
- Common trail hazards and safe riding practices.
Children younger than 10 may attend educational sessions but do not participate in the riding evaluation. Family members also are encouraged to attend field day activities.
Guerton says involving parents is intentional.
"If we teach safety to kids and their parents accompany them, we promote safety and awareness the kids can carry into adulthood, and the parents can provide reinforcement," she says.
Local ATV clubs are helping recruit participants, and organizers hope to expand the program beyond Olmsted County. Between 2025 and January 2026, 5,461 youth completed DNR recreational vehicle training.
Safety certification is enforced by DNR conservation officers, who verify certificates during enforcement stops on public lands. Riders are required to carry proof of certification and may receive a citation if they are not in compliance with state law.
Why youth ride ATVs
For many young people, ATV riding begins as a family activity.
"Most youth get interested and involved in the ATV world because their parents participate in the activity," Wiebusch says. "It's not uncommon to see family groups out enjoying the trail systems together, especially as some Class 2 machines can safely carry up to six people."
In rural communities, ATVs are often used for everyday chores such as feeding livestock or traveling around farms. Parents may rely on older children to complete these tasks, making safe riding habits important.
Children from urban areas also are introduced to ATV riding during visits with relatives or vacations where trail riding is a family activity.
Regardless of where young riders live, Guerton emphasizes that education and supervision are key to preventing serious injuries.
Bringing ATV safety education to your community
Trauma centers interested in offering youth ATV safety training should begin by contacting their state's DNR or natural resources agency, Guerton explains. She also recommends collaborating with local public health organizations and schools to expand access to safety education.
By combining classroom instruction, hands-on training and family involvement, the Mayo Clinic-DNR effort aims to help the next generation of ATV riders develop the skills and judgment needed to ride safely.