Driving an RV or pulling a trailer over Teton Pass? New rules are in effect
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JACKSON, Wyoming — Some drivers heading over Teton Pass will soon have an extra step to take before getting behind the wheel.
Starting in October, drivers of recreational vehicles, those towing trailers, and operators of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight or combined weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds must complete Wyoming’s new WY22 SAFE PASS program before traveling Wyoming Highway 22 over Teton Pass.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation opened the online self-certification process Sept. 21, giving drivers a chance to complete the requirement before it becomes mandatory.
Teton Pass is a heavily traveled connection between eastern Idaho and Jackson Hole, but its steep terrain can pose particular challenges for larger vehicles. The highway includes grades of up to 10%, which WYDOT says are about twice as steep as those found on average mountain passes.
The new program is intended to make sure drivers understand those challenges before attempting the pass.
“We encourage all drivers who plan to travel Teton Pass to get certified early online, in order to avoid queuing at available pullouts or any delays on their day of travel,” WYDOT District 3 Engineer Peter Stinchcomb said.
Drivers can complete the certification online at safepass.wyoroad.info. Applicants will provide basic information and review safety materials covering steep grades, braking procedures, weight and load limits, legal restrictions and proper vehicle operation.
Once the process is complete, drivers will receive a self-certification letter that remains valid for one year.
Affected drivers who have not completed certification will not be allowed to travel over Teton Pass and must use an alternate route.
The new certification does not change other restrictions already in place on the highway. Teton Pass will continue to have a permanent 60,000-pound weight restriction, along with any seasonal closures or other restrictions imposed by WYDOT.
Drivers who ignore the SAFE PASS requirement could also face citations. Those operating vehicles over the 10,000-pound threshold without certification, as well as drivers violating the permanent 60,000-pound restriction, may be cited under Wyoming law.
WYDOT officials say the concern goes beyond avoiding a ticket. Drivers who aren’t prepared for the pass’s steep grades can risk brake failure and other potentially serious situations.
Although certification is only mandatory for certain vehicles, WYDOT encourages anyone who regularly travels Teton Pass to complete the safety program.
“Although the pre-certification is mandatory for certain users, we recommend all drivers complete the self-certification process,” Stinchcomb said. “It’s a great opportunity to learn more about safe mountain pass driving and the inherent dangers on Teton Pass.”
WYDOT also reminds motorists traveling the pass to wear seat belts, obey posted speeds, use a lower gear when descending steep grades, and stay off their phones while driving.
Drivers can find the SAFE PASS certification and additional information at safepass.wyoroad.info