New Teton Pass safe driving program expected this fall

JACKSON, Wyo. - The Wyoming Department of Transportation is in the early stages of developing the WY22 SAFE PASS program, a self-certification program to improve driver education and awareness of the challenges of mountain pass driving.

The program will require drivers operating recreational vehicles, towing trailers or vehicles who have a gross vehicle weight and/or a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds to complete the program and self-certify their ability to navigate mountain driving.

Applicants will be able to self-certify online through a website in which they will enter some basic information and review required safety material. Once the applicant has completed the process, they will be sent a certification letter that will be active for one year. After one year, drivers can reapply for the program.

Once the program is launched, RV drivers, motorists towing trailers, and operators of vehicles over 10,000 pounds will be restricted from using Teton Pass unless they have completed the program. All existing regulations - including seasonal closures and the 60,000-pound weight limit - remain strictly in effect.

Applicants will be required to review educational materials, including documents, maps and/or videos, related to safe driving practices on mountain passes and will include information about navigating steep grades, current legal restrictions, brake fade protocols, weight and load limitations and vehicle operation. There will also be information on alternate routes if drivers do not want to take the risk.

WYDOT is currently developing the application, educational materials and policy and hopes to roll out the program by October of this year.

"This program is not intended to replace other legal requirements to maintain control of your vehicle, it's a self-certification process that helps people look at this pass and acknowledge, 'yes, I am confident in my equipment and ability to navigate Teton Pass safely,'" said WYDOT Director Darin Westby. "Educated drivers can make more informed decisions, which makes driving on the pass safer for everyone."

WYDOT continues to review and implement safety improvements and future infrastructure enhancements on Teton Pass as part of the State Transportation Improvement Plan process.

Drivers can continue to do their part in making Teton Pass safer by wearing a seat belt, slowing down and obeying posted speeds, using a lower gear when descending steep grades, and putting down their phone and paying attention to their surroundings.

WYDOT remains committed to updating the public with timely information. Drivers can sign up for 511 Notify alerts at https://www.wyoroad.info/511/511NotifyAnnouncement.html.