Introduction
Vehicle components and limits, PPE, preparation, tyre pressure, rider or driver position, basic obstacles and emergency stops.
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Approved activity profile · Wheel-based
Quad Bikes and Side-by-Sides
The minimum technical competence and structured learning pathway for operating quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles in off-road conditions.
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Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
DOCUMENT 01
DOCUMENT 02
DOCUMENT 03
Read the general guidance
Activity overview
A connected pathway from skills to delivery.
This profile applies to quad bike and side-by-side operation, off-road riding and driving, recovery techniques, vehicle-based adventure touring, driver education and guided experiences.
The Skills Guideline, Curriculum and shared Off-road Accreditation Requirements must be read together. They define competence, learning content and the requirements for approved delivery.
Competency pathway
Three progressive levels.
Learners progress only when they can demonstrate the knowledge and practical performance required at the relevant level.
Basic
Moderate terrain, drivetrain aids, inspections, line choice, weight distribution, environmental care and basic recovery.
Advanced
Advanced traction and terrain, towing and recovery, tyre repair, field procedures and planning or leading an advanced activity.
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Skills Guideline
Technical Skills Guideline: Quad Bikes and Side-by-Sides Vehicle Operation
Scope of practice, progressive technical skills, minimum safety standards, environmental considerations and assessment criteria.
Curriculum
Operating Adventure Quad Bikes and Side-by-Sides in Off-road Conditions - Courses Curriculum
Course purpose, target groups, prerequisites, learning outcomes, delivery, assessment and evaluation across three progressive levels.
Accreditation requirements
Off-road Skills Development Partner and Facilitator Accreditation Requirements
Requirements for provider and facilitator accreditation, qualifications, experience, training material, venues, tracks, equipment and quality assurance.
Scope of practice
Where the profile applies.
- Quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles used on gravel, sand, mud, grass, rocks, forest tracks and graded off-road terrain.
- Single-day and multi-day learning, supervised trail use and guided activities.
- Recommended maximum ratios of one facilitator to six learners and one guide to five client vehicles, reduced where risks require it.
- Racing, stunt riding, jumping, aggressive driving and operation beyond achieved competence are excluded.
Safety & responsibility
Core operating expectations.
- Mechanically sound, trail-ready vehicles with safety systems checked before use.
- Activity-specific PPE, seatbelts and manufacturer-fitted passenger protection.
- Briefings covering controls, speed, spacing, trail rules, emergency signals and stop criteria.
- Documented communications, emergency response, weather and incident-reporting arrangements.
Applies across every activity
General training and assessment guidance
Use the general guide alongside these activity-specific documents for experience, first aid, planning, equipment, risk, communication, group leadership and post-event requirements.