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?

•  Removing the Age Restriction Warning Label attached to the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) by the manufacturer
•  Operating an ATV:
  • Half-hour after sunset to half-hour before sunrise, unless with headlights on
  • Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • In a reckless manner
• Parents or guardians cannot allow:
  • Anyone less than six to operate an ATV.
  • Anyone less than 16 to carry a passenger while operating an ATV
  • Anyone less than 16 to operate an ATV in violation of the warning label on the vehicle
  • Anyone 16 or younger to operate an ATV unless with an adult
  • Anyone 15 or younger to:
    • Operate an ATV without successfully completing a “hands-on” ATV safety course approved by AVSI (All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute)
    • Operate or ride an ATV in SC without a helmet and eye protection

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