New ATV Rules for Oregon in 2009

As of January 1, 2009, all riders 16 or younger, as well as any adult who supervises those youths, is required to complete an Oregon All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Safety Education course before riding on public lands in Oregon.

New safety laws are now in effect for operating quads and three-wheel ATVs (Class I ATVs) and off-road motorcycles (Class III ATVs) on lands open to public use. (See chart below for age-related timelines.) In order to make training as convenient as possible, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department now offers this free safety and education program and certification online at http://www.rideatvoregon.org.

Training Online in Three Easy Steps:

1. Study and pass the online test on this website. A student can expect to spend between one and two hours for the entire process.
2. We’ll mail you a plastic, wallet-sized All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Education Card approximately 30 days after you pass the test (You can print a 30-day temporary education card immediately after you get a “pass” confirmation).
3. Carry the ATV safety education card with you whenever you operate a Class I or Class III ATV on lands open for public use.

Other Rider Requirements in Oregon:

SUPERVISION: All youth operators 15 and under must be supervised by an adult who:

1. Is at least 18 years old.
2. Holds a valid ATV Safety Education Card.
3. Is able to provide immediate assistance and direction to the youth.

CHIN STRAPS: DOT Approved helmets, with chin straps fastened, are required for youth under age 18 for quads and dirt bikes.

RIDER FIT: Class I operators (quads and 3-wheelers) 15 and under must now meet all the following minimum physical size requirements in relationship to the vehicle:

1. Brake Reach: With hands placed in the normal operating position and fingers straight out, the first joint (from the tip) of the middle finger will extend beyond the brake lever and clutch.
2. Leg Length: While sitting and with their feet on the pegs, the knee must be bent at least 45 degrees.
3. Grip Reach: While sitting upright on the quad with hands on the handle bars and not leaning forward, there must be a distinct angle between the upper arm and the forearm, and;
4. The rider must be able to turn the handle bars from lock to lock while maintaining grip on the handle bars and maintaining throttle and brake control.
5. Disabled riders are allowed to use prosthetic devices or modified or adaptive equipment to achieve rider fit.

MINIMUM AGE: There is no minimum age for quad or 3-wheeled ATVs. Minimum age for off-road motorcycles is 7 years old.

More information can be found at:

• http://www.rideatvoregon.org
• http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/ATV/safety.shtml

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