This bill amends existing laws regarding the operation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road motorcycles, and off-road utility vehicles (UTVs) in Iowa. It removes the previous exemptions for off-road motorcycles and UTVs from the education instruction and certification requirements, mandating that all individuals, regardless of age, must obtain a valid education certificate approved by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before operating these vehicles on public land, public ice, designated riding trails, or land purchased with ATV registration funds. The bill also clarifies that individuals are not required to possess an education certificate if their operation is part of a prescribed education training course under the direct supervision of a certified instructor.

Additionally, the bill modifies the process for obtaining an education certificate by eliminating the option to demonstrate adequate riding skills as a means of qualification. Instead, it requires all applicants to successfully pass a written test. The fee for the education certificate remains at $5, and the certificate does not expire unless suspended or revoked due to violations of ATV laws. Operating an ATV, UTV, or off-road motorcycle without a valid education certificate is classified as a simple misdemeanor, subject to a $70 fine.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 321I.1, 321.234A