Nebraska teens who work on farms or are interested in learning about safe farming practices are encouraged to attend the upcoming 2024 Tractor Safety Days, scheduled for numerous locations across the state throughout May and June.

The annual event will provide the training and testing necessary for Nebraska youth who require certification to perform duties on a farm. As federal law prohibits children under 16 from using certain equipment on a farm unless their parents or legal guardians own the farm, certification through this course grants an exemption for 14- and 15-year-olds to drive a tractor and perform field work with certain mechanized equipment.

The two-day certification includes the Hands-on Safety Day with a written test (Day 1), and tractor and equipment safety training with a driving exam (Day 2).

• Certification Day 1 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 in-person.
• Certification Day 2 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).

Successful completion of Certification Days 1 and 2 will result in certification for 14- and 15-year-olds to be employed on farms and ranches.

The course costs $40 and includes educational materials, the online learning link (if applicable), supplies, and lunch and snacks at in-person training. Payment is by credit card online or mailed check.

Youth under 14 years of age can attend certification Day 1 if accompanied by an adult. Students under 14 must still register but will not be charged the registration fee.

Register online for the 2024 Tractor Safety Days at least one week in advance of the dates you wish to attend. For more information, contact your local extension office.

The tractor and equipment safety certification course is hosted every year by Nebraska Extension and Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health.