Effective December 21, 2010, the Vermont State Police changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Today's Snowmobile Rider in Vermont online course—the official snowmobile rider education course of the Vermont State Police.

The following course material is for reference only. Please go to the new course to complete your Vermont certification.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Preparing for Snowmobiling Risks

Anytime you venture into snowmobile terrain, some risk is involved. You could be stranded due to:

Mechanical problems
Unexpected, severe weather
Injury
Getting lost

The rougher the terrain—particularly unfamiliar terrain—the greater the chance of accidents. Climate extremes also increase the risk factor. In remote areas, there’s always the possibility of getting lost.

Rules of Survival

Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return.
Don’t travel alone.
Take enough food and water to last for at least two days in an emergency.
Bring a map and compass, and always orient yourself before leaving.
Wear layered clothing.
Don’t panic if you become lost.

Snowmobile rider