UTV Law | SCDPS

South Carolina Department of Public Safety

UTV Law

Effective November 18, 2026, a new South Carolina state law will make utility terrain vehicles (UTVs or side-by-sides) eligible to legally operate on certain public roads in South Carolina once specific requirements are met. Until November 18, 2026, operating UTVs on the road is illegal and subject to citation.

The law defines a UTV as a side-by-side, four-wheel drive, off-road vehicle intended to transport individuals, cargo, or both. These vehicles must have a top speed over 55 miles per hour, an engine of at least 450cc, a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 4,000 pounds or less, and measure 80 inches or less in width. The vehicle must also use a steering wheel for control and be equipped with non-straddle seats. 

In order to legally drive a UTV on a public street or highway: 

  • The UTV must have liability insurance and be titled and registered with the SCDMV. 
  • The UTV must be equipped with working headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and Type 2 seat belts at every seating position.
  • The driver must have the registration certificate and proof of liability insurance in his or her possession while operating the UTV on a public road and display an official license plate on the rear of the vehicle. 
    • Owners are not required to register or purchase liability insurance if they do not intend to drive UTVs on public roads.
  • The driver must be at least 17 years old with a valid Class D driver’s license in his or her possession while operating the UTV on a public road.
  • Drivers and passengers under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet with face shield or goggles when the UTV is being driven on a public road. 
  • Passengers on the UTV must be at least 8 years old.
  • The UTV may only be operated on a secondary highway or street where the posted speed limit is 55 mph or less.
  • UTVs may not be operated on interstates. 
  • The UTV must remain within 10 miles of the address listed on the registration certificate, or within 10 miles of an entrance to a gated community if the address is within the gated community.
  • UTV operators are subject to general traffic laws including DUI, speeding, seatbelts, hands-free law, and more. 

Read more about the state's UTV laws in SC Code of Laws: Section 56-2-5000 through Section 56-2-5130.