All-Terrain Vehicles

What is an ATV?

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

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) 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 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 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 on
  • 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.