Nebraska Extension and Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health, have announced plans for the annual “tractor safety” training courses scheduled at 7 sites across Nebraska in late May and early June. Students will complete the first day of the course either by attending a hands-on event or online through the eXtension Foundation Campus website.
The hands-on events will take place May 22 in North Platte and May 30 in Grand Island. After successfully completing the hand-on event or the online course, and testing, the required driving test will be offered at 7 locations across Nebraska May 23 through June 8, 2023.
Federal law prohibits children under 16 years of age from using certain equipment on a farm unless their parents or legal guardians own the farm. However, certification received through the course grants an exemption to the law allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to drive a tractor and to do field work with certain mechanized equipment.
Teens 14 or 15 years of age who work on farms, or others who are interested in learning about safe farming practices, are encouraged to register for the certification course. Students under age 14 are not eligible for certification but the hands-on events are open to everyone in the community. Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
The hands-on event and the online course will cover the required elements of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program, including quizzes which students must pass to attend the driving portion of training. Once a student is registered, they will be sent instructions, materials, course paperwork and a link to the online course if they will not be attending the hands-on events.
The onsite driving training and exam will include a driving test and equipment operation and ATV safety lessons. Students must demonstrate competence in hitching and unhitching equipment and driving a tractor and trailer through a standardized course. Instructors will also offer education about safe behaviors and laws for ATVs, utility-task vehicles (UTVs), and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).
The cost of the course is $35 and includes educational materials, the online learning link (if applicable), and supplies.
Hands-On Safety Days
- May 22 - Lincoln County Extension Office (North Platte)
- May 30 - Raising Nebraska (Grand Island)
Tractor Driving Days
- May 23 - Lincoln County Extension Office (North Platte)
- May 31 - Raising Nebraska (Grand Island)
- June 1 - Legacy of the Plains Museum (Gering)
- June 2 - AKRS Equipment (O'Neill)
- June 6 - Adams County Extension (Hastings)
- JUNE 7 - CUMING COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
- June 8 - Cass County Fairgrounds (Weeping Water)
Registration Link: go.unl.edu/2023tractor safety OR scan the QR code below.
