All-Terrain Vehicles

You may hear an ATV referred to as a four-wheeler. 

What is an ATV?

All-terrain vehicles are designed primarily for off-road travel and are no more than 50 inches wide. They may have three or more low-pressure tires and handle bars for steering. They do not include lawn tractors, battery-powered children’s toys, or a vehicle that is required to be licensed or titled for highway use.
 
Titling an ATV

If you own an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), you may title it by submitting all of the following:

  • Completed Application for Title (SCDMV Form 400) 
  • Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin or previous title properly assigned to the applicant
  • $15
  • Sales tax (there is no maximum sales tax on ATVs)

 ATVs must have all of the following equipment in good working condition:

  • An effective muffler system
  • USDA Forest Service approved spark arrester
  • Brake system

What is against the law when it comes to an ATV?

It is against the law to remove the age restriction warning label attached to the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) by the manufacturer.

You cannot drive an ATV:

  • More than 30 minutes after sunset or more than 30 minutes before sunrise unless headlights are one
  • Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • In a reckless manner

Parents or guardians cannot allow:

  • Anyone less than six to drive an ATV
  • Anyone 16 or younger to drive an ATV unless with an adult
  • Anyone less than 16 drive an ATV with a passenger who is not an adult
  • Anyone less than 16 to drive an ATV in violation of the warning label on the vehicle
  • Anyone 15 or younger to:
    • Drive an ATV without successfully completing a “hands-on” ATV safety course approved by the All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (AVSI)
    • Drive or ride an ATV in South Carolina without a helmet and eye protection

SC Code Sections 56-19-1010, -1020, -1030, 50-26.