Education and training are key to safe operation of ATVs and UTVs. Here is what to know.

Riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) is one of the fastest growing segments of outdoor recreation in Wisconsin, according to Department of Natural Resources recreational safety specialists.

Registrations for the vehicles hit a record-high 497,029 in 2023, according to the DNR's annual recreational vehicle report.

Accidents have increased along with increased use of the vehicles.

In 2023 in Wisconsin there were 155 crashes involving ATVs and 127 involving UTVs, according to the DNR. The crashes resulted in a total of 284 injuries, including 32 fatalities.

State and industry experts say training and education are key to safely operating the vehicles. Here is what to know.

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

ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to drive on public trails and areas in Wisconsin, according to the DNR.

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

DNR conservation wardens recommend all ATV and UTV operators complete a safety course.

What is the goal of safety training?

The DNR says the objective of the training is to reduce the potential for incidents, injuries and fatalities; to reduce the potential for conflict 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 are required to wear a minimum DOT standard ATV or motorcycle helmet with the chin strap properly fastened. Bicycle helmets do not meet this requirement.

Helmets are not required for people 18 and older or when the vehicles are used on farms; however, safety officials recommend they be worn in all settings and by all ages of riders.

ATVs and UTVs are required to have a lighted headlamp and tail lamp at all times during operation. ATV operators cannot have a passenger riding in or on any part of an ATV that is not designed or intended to be used by passengers.

Do operators need to display registration?

Unless specifically exempt, all ATVs and UTVs operated in Wisconsin must display current Wisconsin registration decals, possess a temporary operating receipt or possess a copy of a signed registration application from a dealer.

The registration sticker must be displayed on both sides of the vehicle as well as on a rear facing plate. The plate must have a white background and use black text, according to 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?

It costs $30 to register an ATV or UTV in Wisconsin, according to the DNR.

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

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What to know about ATV and UTV safety, regulations in Wisconsin