The Surprising Minimum Age To Legally Drive ATVs In Wisconsin

It's the time of the year when ATV drivers are hitting the trails throughout Wisconsin, and there's a great reason why.

Wisconsin is a premier destination state for ATV and UTV riding, featuring an extensive network of trails and ride parks. Not only does Wisconsin feature thousands of miles of trails, but there's also a strong network of local clubs maintaining them.

I have a cabin in Wisconsin that is close to countless ATV trails, which I've often enjoyed, and I've seen firsthand how well they are maintained.

With so many people out on the trails, all drivers are urged to remember trail etiquette and state ATV laws, including the legal age at which someone can drive an ATV or UTV. While a lot of people may think you have to be at least 16 years old to drive, that is not the case.

While it may surprise you that there is no official minimum age to drive an ATV or UTV in Wisconsin, it's important to note that there are strict regulations in place for the youngest drivers.

Minimum Age To Drive ATVs And UTVs In Wisconsin

First, it's important to note that all operators and passengers under 18 are required by law to wear a minimum DOT standard ATV or motorcycle helmet with the chin strap properly fastened.

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In Wisconsin, kids don't have to wait until they turn 16 years old to drive; in fact, they don't even have to be 12 years old. However, before you think the trails will be full of drivers who are 8 years old or younger, the following special regulations are in place based on age group.

Drivers Under 12 Years Old

A child under 12 is allowed to operate a small ATV (90cc or smaller) on private property owned or leased by their parents or siblings, or for agricultural purposes under adult supervision. However, they cannot operate an ATV on a roadway for agricultural use, even with adult supervision.

Also, a child under 12 may also operate a small, registered ATV (no more than 90cc) on designated ATV trails (not routes), but only when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Grandparents, siblings, or friends do not meet the requirement for adult accompaniment.

The following limitations are in place for drivers under 12:

A child under 12 cannot operate an ATV on a roadway or route under any circumstances.
A child under 12 cannot operate an ATV on frozen surface waters.
A child under 12 cannot operate an ATV on a roadway for agricultural purposes.
An ATV Safety Certificate is not available for children under 12

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Drivers 12 To 15 Years Old

Once an ATV driver turns 12 in Wisconsin, a new set of rules applies until they turn 16.

Children 12-15 years old can operate ATVs on public trails and routes if they have a safety certificate and are accompanied by an adult. The adult must be at least 18 years old and designated by the parent or guardian. The accompaniment requirement does not apply to off-road trails or when crossing roads, but they still need a safety certificate.

This age group can also operate ATVs for agricultural purposes; however, larger UTVs require operators to be at least 16 years old, even for agricultural use.

Drivers 16 Years Old And Older

Once a driver turns 16 years old, there are fewer restrictions. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, 16-year-olds can operate both ATVs and UTVs on public trails, but they must have completed an ATV and UTV safety certification course.

Additionally, if they were born on or after January 1, 1988, they need this certification to operate on public trails and routes.

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Again, all operators and passengers under 18 must wear a helmet approved by the Motorcycle Department (Snell or Department of Transportation) unless certain exemptions apply (e.g., hunting/fishing, agricultural use, or operation on immediate family property).