Over 160,000 people have completed the state’s new adult off-highway vehicle (OHV) education course since it was implemented January 1, 2023. The course, offered by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR), is the first of its kind in the nation and helps to preserve access and increase rider safety.
“We appreciate the cooperation from the OHV community for supporting this course that will help educate those who are new to the sport and out of staters to help protect and preserve our public lands here in Utah for ourselves and future generations,” said Brett Stewart, president of the Utah OHV Advocates. “This was user-group legislation, with the support from municipalities, Tread Lightly!, federal agencies, law enforcement and the Utah OHV Program. We greatly thank Rep. Albrecht and co-sponsor Sen. Bramble for running this legislation.”
The education course results from legislation passed during the 2022 general session, championed by the Utah Off-Highway Vehicles Advocates. Stewart worked closely with the bill’s primary sponsor, Utah State Rep. Carl Albrecht, R-Richfield, to craft the legislation and provide valuable input on the overall course. Additional OHV clubs and organizations, T.R.E.A.D. Lightly!, federal land management agencies and local partners also provided feedback in designing the course.
“Our Law Enforcement Rangers are seeing that most of the riders they contact across Utah are eager to show they have taken the course,” said Division of Outdoor Recreation Law Enforcement Chief Steve Bullock. “As we talk to people enjoying the trails and dunes, they are telling us that they are seeing other rider groups on the trails show more respect for others and the area. They say the course was easy to complete and that the information is needed.”
Utah’s extensive trails and riding areas bring OHV enthusiasts from all over the country who are also taking the course, and about 15-20% of completed courses are from people visiting Utah. Additionally, the state is seeing a hundredfold increase in youth riders completing the required youth education course for those under 18.
“A widespread understanding of the OHV laws, riding ethics, and message of respectful riding will make riding safer and result in fewer injuries and deaths. And riders are increasingly showing respect for our amazing landscapes and trails and the communities that host OHV users across Utah. The new adult OHV education course seems to be making a real impact,” said Bullock.
Anyone 18 years or older must now complete the free online course to operate an OHV on Utah public lands. To take the free OHV education course, click here. For more information, visit ohv.utah.gov.
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