Do You Need a Licence?

One of the most common questions before a snowmobile safari in Rovaniemi is whether you need a licence. The short answer: yes, if you want to drive — but it's a normal driving licence, not a special one. Here are the rules in plain terms.

The driver needs a car driving licence

To drive a snowmobile on a guided safari in Finland, you must hold a valid car (category B) driving licence and carry it with you on the day. There is no separate "snowmobile licence" to obtain — your ordinary licence is enough. If your licence isn't in the Latin alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit alongside it.

Minimum age

Drivers must be 18 or over. This is a legal requirement on marked snowmobile routes, not just our rule.

Passengers don't need a licence

If you'd rather not drive, that's completely fine. Snowmobiles are usually shared two to a machine, so one person drives while the other rides as a passenger — and you can swap halfway. Passengers need no licence and no experience.

What about children?

Children can't drive, but they can often ride along as passengers depending on their age and height, or sit in a guide-driven sleigh towed behind a snowmobile on some tours. If you're travelling as a family, tell us the children's ages when booking and we'll advise the best option.

No licence? You can still ride

Don't have a licence with you, or don't want to drive? You can still join as a passenger and enjoy the whole experience — just let us know when you book so we can pair you up.