Registrations for street-legal UTVs starts November

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles reminds residents to tap their brakes with Utility Terrain Vehicle operations on public roads, which is not permitted until November 18 under the newly enacted Bill S. 222.

“Our priority is the safety of all South Carolinians, whether they will be riding in a UTV on a public road or in a passenger vehicle next to a UTV,” said SCDMV Executive Director Kevin Shwedo. “Until this law takes effect, I encourage owners to get their vehicles road ready with proper insurance and safety equipment, so we are able to register them come November.”

Vehicle Requirements

UTVs must meet specific criteria to qualify as street legal. Vehicles must be four-wheel drive, have an engine displacement of at least 450cc, reach a top speed greater than 55 mph, measure 80 inches or less in width, and have a gross weight rating of 4,000 pounds or less. Additionally, the UTV must be equipped with factory-approved Type 2 seat belts for every seat, headlights, brake lights, taillights and working turn signals.

Registration, Insurance and Fees

To legally operate on public roads, owners must register their UTVs in the same manner as passenger vehicles, maintain proof of liability insurance, and display an officially issued license plate on the rear of the vehicle. There is a registration fee of $10 for two years. UTVs registered for on-road use are exempt from county property taxes. 

Driver and Passenger Rules for Public-road Use

• Age and Licensing: Drivers must be at least 17 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Beginner's permits, moped or motorcycle licenses are not accepted. Temporary, route-restricted or provisional licenses are not accepted.
• Helmets: Drivers and passengers under 21 years old must wear helmets equipped with a face shield.
• Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 8 are strictly prohibited from riding in a UTV on public roadways.

Operational Zones

UTVs are only permitted on roads with a speed limit of 55 mph or less. They are entirely prohibited from traveling on interstate highways. UTV operations are limited to a 10-mile radius of the address listed on the vehicle's registration. Furthermore, local municipalities and counties retain authority to restrict the hours, methods and specific locations of UTV operation.

UTV Dealers

Businesses offering UTVs for purchase must not use their dealer number for the sale as these vehicles are considered retail items. Sales for UTVs will not be authorized through the Electronic Vehicle Registration program.