(803) 888-2200
CALL US NOW
EMAIL US NOW
A new South Carolina law will allow utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) on some public roads starting on November 18, 2026. This article will outline some key details of this new law. If you have any questions or are looking for legal assistance following a UTV wreck, reach out to our award-winning South Carolina personal injury lawyers today. We’re here and happy to help.
South Carolina UTV Driver Requirements
The new law allows UTV owners who meet the following criteria to drive on certain South Carolina roads:
- Drivers must be 17 years of age or older, with a valid driver’s license that permits the operation of a motor vehicle at any time.
In addition, UTV drivers must possess the following while driving on public roads:
- The license plate and registration certificate
- Proof of liability insurance
- Valid Driver’s license
UTV Requirements
In order to meet requirements to drive, UTVs must be registered with the South Carolina DMV, display an official license plate, carry liability insurance, and be in good maintenance condition. This includes having working headlights, taillights, turn signals, and Type 2 seat belts at each seat.
The law also outlines the different weight, size, and condition requirements UTVs must meet to qualify.
Exceptions to the UTV Law
South Carolina law outlines a few exceptions to who and how you can operate UTVs on public roads.
Driver Restrictions: You may not operate a UTV on South Carolina public roads if
- You carry only a beginner’s permit
- You have solely a moped operator’s license
- You have solely a motorcycle license
- You are on a temporary alcohol license
- You have a route restricted driver’s license
- You have a provisional driver’s license
Passenger Restrictions: You cannot travel with any passengers under the age of eight years old on public roadways.
Speed and Distance Limits: UTVs must be operated only on South Carolina roads or highways with a speed limit of 55 mph or less. In addition, operation is restricted to a 10-mile radius of the UTV’s registered address.
How Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a UTV accident, get a free case evaluation with a South Carolina UTV accident attorney at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC today. Simply call our office at (803) 888-2200 to learn how our team can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
With offices in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville, our personal injury lawyers travel to and represent clients throughout the state of South Carolina. If you are looking for an out-of-state referral, please reach out to our team today.
Disclaimer: This article is presented for informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
Client Focused. Results Driven.
Author: Joseph O. Thickens
I’m Joe Thickens, and I’m a founder and personal injury attorney at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC. I primarily represent people who have been injured in car and truck accidents in Columbia and throughout the state of South Carolina. Our entire team is dedicated to getting accident victims the justice they deserve, including making sure they get compensated for all of the physical, financial, and emotional pain they’ve had to face as a result of an unexpected accident.
If you or a loved one has any questions following an accident, we’d be glad to help you understand your options under state law. We take great pride in our work and prioritize a great client experience. If you’d like more information, simply call our team at (803) 888-2200. We are available for you via phone 24/7.
