Operating on Roads
Snowmobiles may operate on maintained streets, roads or highways only if:
- the roadway is drifted or covered by snow to such an extent that travel is impossible by other motor vehicles
- the local government allows snowmobiles to travel on plowed roads with wheeled vehicles
- the snowmobile operator posses a motor vehicle driver's license or a snowmobile safety certificate and travels under the visual supervision of an adult.
Certification
To obtain a snowmobile operator's certificate a person must attend and successfully complete a Montana-approved snowmobile safety education course. Classes are taught by volunteer instructors across the state. Contact your local club or FWP at (406) 444-7317.
Nonresidents should contact their state snowmobile association or the agency responsible for their state's snowmobile education program to find a snowmobile course offered locally. Course certificates from other states will be approved by FWP on a case-by-case basis.
Persons living in areas where a snowmobile course is not offered may take the FWP snowmobile home-study course. However, the temporary certificate expires on June 30.
Click here to request a home-study course.
Safe Rider
Snowmobiling is a fun and exciting sport the whole family can enjoy. However, winter offers certain challenges that require snowmobilers to take precautions.
- Know your abilities and your snowmobile's capabilities and don't go beyond them.
- Know your riding area. Get a map. Talk to the local snowmobilers.
- Maintain your snowmobile in top form for a dependable ride.
- Cross roads carefully. Come to a complete stop and make sure no traffic is approaching from any direction. Then cross at a right angle to the road.
- Dress for changing weather conditions. Wear layers of clothing so you can add or remove clothing as needed. Always wear a helmet.
- Plan for the unexpected by carrying a tool kit, first aid kit and survival items. Let someone know your plans so searchers will know where to look if you are lost or overdue.
- Check ice conditions before traveling on frozen lakes or rivers.
- Learn to recognize avalanche areas and avoid them. Carry avalanche rescue equipment including a transceiver, probe pole and shovel, and know how to use them. Review the local avalanche advisory when available.
- Ride sober. Alcohol increases the chance of frostbite and hypothermia, and affects the skills you need to ride safely.
- Operate at safe speeds and be prepared to stop within your line of sight. Slow down and enjoy the ride.
Web Avalanche Resources:
Trails Program
Montana offers over 4,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trail. Trails are groomed by local clubs, chambers of commerce or government agencies with grant money provided by FWP. Grooming funds are derived from snowmobile gas tax refund and decal fees.
Trail maps are available from local clubs or Forest Service offices or contact the Montana Snowmobile Association, 401 Lower River Road, Missoula MT 59718.
