Youth ATVs carry a minimum age label: 6 and older, 10 and older, 12 and older, and a 14-and-older transition category, with adult models for riders 16 and older. The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the ATV Safety Institute say children under 16 should not ride adult-size ATVs. Every young rider needs a certified helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, long sleeves and pants, adult supervision and a hands-on training course.
Most serious ATV injuries to children happen on machines that are too big for them. Matching the category is the first step.
Age categories
| Category label | Rider age |
|---|---|
| Y-6+ | 6 and older |
| Y-10+ | 10 and older |
| Y-12+ | 12 and older |
| T (transition) | 14 and older, with supervision |
| Adult | 16 and older |
Youth models have speed limiters that a parent can set. Start with the lowest setting.
Physical fit check
Age labels are a minimum. A child should also be able to:
- Reach and squeeze the brake levers fully.
- Reach the handlebars when turned fully left and right.
- Stand on the footrests with knees slightly bent.
Gear for young riders
- A certified youth helmet that fits; see helmet sizing and standards.
- Goggles, gloves, over-the-ankle boots, long sleeves and long pants.
- Chest protector for off-road riding.
Golden rules
- Always wear a helmet and protective gear.
- Never ride on paved roads except to cross where allowed.
- Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV.
- Ride an ATV that is right for your age.
- Supervise riders younger than 16.
- Ride only on designated trails at a safe speed.
Check state rules for youth riders, which can include training certificates and age limits. Plan hauling and storage too.
Browse youth and new riders.
Common questions
At what age can a child ride an ATV?
Youth models start at age 6 and older. Choose the category on the ATV's label that matches the child's age, and only with adult supervision.
Can a 12-year-old ride an adult ATV?
No. Safety agencies advise that riders under 16 should not ride adult-size ATVs.
Can kids ride as passengers on an ATV?
Only on ATVs designed for a passenger. Most ATVs are single-rider machines, and carrying a passenger is a leading cause of accidents.
Where can my child take an ATV course?
The ATV Safety Institute offers hands-on RiderCourses, and many ATV makers offer incentives for new buyers to take one.