According to recreation safety specialists with the Department of Natural Resources, off-road vehicle (ATV) and utility vehicle (UTV) riding is one of the fastest-growing segments of outdoor recreation in Wisconsin.

Vehicle registrations are expected to reach a record high of 497,029 in 2023, according to the DNR’s annual recreational vehicle report.

The number of accidents has increased with the increase in vehicle use.

According to the DNR, there were 155 ATV crashes and 127 UTV crashes in Wisconsin in 2023. The crashes resulted in 284 injuries and 32 deaths.

Government and industry experts say training and education are key to safely operating vehicles. Here’s what you need to know.

What training is required to operate an ATV or UTV in Wisconsin?

ATV and UTV operators born on or after January 1, 1988, who are at least 12 years old for ATVs (and at least 16 years old for UTVs) must complete an ATV and UTV safety course to operate on public trails and areas in Wisconsin, according to DNR guidelines.

Classes are offered in person and online. At least one ATV and UTV safety course is held annually in every county in the state, according to the DNR.

DNR wildlife officers recommend that all ATV and UTV operators complete a safety course.

What is the purpose of safety training?

The DNR says the goals of the training are to reduce the risk of incidents, injuries and fatalities; to reduce the risk of conflicts between participants, landowners and other resource users; and to promote safe, responsible and ethical use of the environment and our resources.

What safety equipment is required?

All ATV/UTV operators and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a minimum DOT-standard ATV or motorcycle helmet with a properly fastened chin strap. Bicycle helmets do not meet this requirement.

People over the age of 18 and those using vehicles on farms are not required to wear helmets. However, safety officials recommend that helmets be worn in all conditions and by everyone, regardless of age.

ATVs and UTVs must have front and rear lights on at all times when in use. ATV operators may not carry a passenger in or on any part of the ATV that is not designed or intended for passenger use.

Do operators have to display registration data?

Unless specifically exempted, all ATVs and UTVs operated in Wisconsin must have current Wisconsin registration stickers, a temporary registration certificate, or a copy of the signed registration application from a dealer.

The registration sticker must be displayed on both sides of the vehicle, as well as on the rear plate. The plate must have a white background and black text, as specified by the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Association (WATVA).

An exception applies to ATVs and UTVs with valid non-resident trail passes.

How much does it cost to register an ATV or UTV?

According to the DNR, it costs $30 to register an ATV or UTV in Wisconsin.

To find a course or for more information about ATVs and UTVs, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/atv.

This article originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What you need to know about ATV and UTV safety and regulations in Wisconsin