Tractor Safety Certification

DETAILS ON THE 2024 CLASS SERIES HERE

The Hazardous Occupation in Agricultural Law requires that youth ages 14 to 16 must have at least 24 hours of tractor safety and maintenance instruction to drive a tractor on a farm other than that owned by their parents. Each year in early spring, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Cayuga County delivers a 7-week Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Certification course, specifically to educate youth. In 2023, nine teens from Cayuga County successfully completed the course.

This certification allows youth 14 and 15 years of age to legally operate farm equipment for hire. After completing the training course, youth will be required to pass a written knowledge test and driving test to receive the certification.

This National Safe Tractor Training Program enables young workers (ages 14-19) to obtain a US Department of Labor Certificate of Training Certification which is required to operate farm tractors and equipment.The program includes training on farm safety, tractor safety, tractor operation and other related topics.

14 and older will be able to drive and become certified. Participants learn important safety skills and gain an advantage when seeking employment at a lawn or landscaping business, golf course or farm.

The cost of this course is $45 per student and includes a copy of the student manual.

It is held at the Cooperative Extension Office, 199 Franklin Street, Suite 3, Auburn, NY with additional visits to area machinery and equipment dealers, local farms and Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES.

Parents and family members are welcome to attend the first session. An interactive presentation by New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health will be given.

Course Requirements

In order to satisfactorily complete this course and receive the appropriate certification, you must:

• Pre-register and pay the appropriate fee. Attend scheduled classes and actively participate. Attendance will be recorded.
• On-line registration: Tractor Registration - Coming Soon
• Signed Acknowledgement of Risk Form
• Reading assignments in the manual as the course progresses, weekly quizzes.
• Complete the final practical driving exam.
• Pass the written final exam with a 70% grade. Please let one of the instructors know if you need any assistance testing. Readers and/or special arrangements can be made.
• Portions of the sessions may be located in unheated facilities or outdoors, please dress according to the weather. Proper footwear is required for all sessions.

Last updated February 6, 2024