ATV Safety Institute Golden Rules

First, safe ATV operation begins with ASI’s Golden Rules (these apply to riders of any age):

  • Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
  • Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.
  • Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.
  • Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.
  • Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.
  • Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
  • Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free online E-Course.

ATV Safety Readiness Checklist

Use the ATV Safety Institute checklist to help assess your child’s readiness in four key areas:

  • visual perception/motor development,
  • physical development,
  • social/emotional development, and
  • reasoning and decision making ability