South Carolina residents who own utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) will have to wait until Nov. 18 before the vehicles can legally operate on public roads under newly enacted Senate Bill S.222.
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging UTV owners to use the time before the law takes effect to ensure their vehicles meet the state’s requirements for registration and road use.
To qualify, UTVs must be four-wheel drive, have an engine displacement of at least 450cc, reach a top speed greater than 55 mph, be no more than 80 inches wide and have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,000 pounds or less. They must also have approved Type 2 seat belts, headlights, brake lights, taillights and working turn signals.
UTVs must be registered like passenger vehicles, carry liability insurance and display a state-issued rear license plate. Registration costs $10 for two years, and registered UTVs are exempt from county property taxes.
Drivers must be at least 17 and hold a valid driver’s license. Beginner, moped, motorcycle, temporary, provisional and route-restricted licenses do not qualify. Drivers and passengers under 21 must wear approved helmets with face shields, while children under 8 cannot ride in UTVs on public roads.
UTVs may only operate on roads with speed limits of 55 mph or less and are prohibited on interstates. Use is limited to a 10-mile radius of the vehicle’s registered address, with local governments able to impose additional restrictions.
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
