Age
The minimum age to operate a snowmobile can vary by state or province. For many it is 15 or 16, as young as 12, or as old as 18. Be sure to check your local laws, or the area you plan to ride. Some states and provinces may also require that you pass a safety certification course to operate a snowmobile. Again, check with the area you will be snowmobiling in to be sure of age restrictions and safety certification requirements.

Exhaust
Exhaust systems that have been modified and are louder than factory exhausts are often illegal. Many states and provinces prohibit the operation of excessively loud machines and restrict the sound level. Since the exhaust system comes tuned and in working order from the factory, it should not be modified. Some jurisdictions carry fines for violating the sound laws.

Speed/Distance
Always obey all posted speed limits. Some areas also have laws related to speed when riding in proximity to other people, homes, or occupied buildings. Some areas may require that if you happen upon pedestrians, you must stay 100 feet from them at a speed of 10 mph. This includes hikers, cross-country skiers, even snowmobilers who have stepped off their machine.

Also, when riding near a residence between the times of noise ordinances, you must not travel faster than 10 mph.

It is important to check for local laws and to adhere to these rules to ensure the safety of others and to also show courtesy to others.