A tractor training program requires classroom teaching, written exam and hands-on tractor skill driving experience session for the 4-H Tractor Operation Program. This is a minimum of 10 hours. I expect you would need 18 - 25 hours for all aspects of the training program which includes classroom, written exam and hands-on tractor skill training practice with the demonstrated ability to successfully maneuver a tractor with a two-wheeled implement in a driving lane and backing-up event. An additional training program on selected farm machines also allowed under this exemption is available needing 10 more hours of training.

A) Minimum required subjects for classroom teaching of tractor operation are:

• Learning How to Be Safe

• The Instrument Panel

• Controls on Your Tractor

• Daily Maintenance and Safety Check

• Starting and Stopping Your Tractor

• Tractor Safety on the Farm

• Tractor Safety on the Highway

• Hitches, PTO’s, & Hydraulic Controls

B) A written examination on tractor safety.
C) A demonstrated ability to operate a tractor safely with a two-wheeled trailed implement on a course similar to one of the 4-H Tractor Operator’s Contest Course.

Student Workbook / Teachers Manual:
Since there are no current 4-H tractor training publications, use the Safe Operation of Agricultural Equipment - Student Manual, 109 pages, Finney-Hobar Publications, 3943 Meadowbrook Rd., Minneapolis, MN 55426, phone: 800-846-7027, fax:612-938-7353. Prices: 1-9 copies $6.25 each, 10 or more copies, $5.00 each. Shipping is 8% of the invoice. Instructors manuals are also available.

The above student manual/workbook was designed for teachers of agriscience and covers 11 subjects and requires 24 hours of training. However, it will cover the eight required subjects mandated for the 4-H tractor program.

The student manual revised in 1996 includes a worksheet, check sheet and related questions.

The instructors manual, revised in 1997, includes a resource list for publications, slide sets, and videotapes. A teaching plan for each unit includes: objectives, teaching aids, instructor/trainee activities, exam questions, a driving test and course layout.

Local sponsors can reduce or eliminate student costs of materials. Plan now to assist 14- and 15-year-old-youth obtain the certificate of training which allows them to be legally employed by neighbors or relatives other than their parents on the home or "leased" farm.