A state law signed by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp back in May allows owners of multipurpose off-highway vehicles (MPOHVs) to register for a license plate authorizing them to drive on county roads as of December 1st. Registered vehicles will also be authorized to cross roads that are part of a municipal street system or state highway system. However, they will not be permitted on interstates, state highways, or city streets.

To maintain valid registration, the owner must continue to carry automobile liability insurance and pay annual registration renewal fees.

The new Georgia law provides for the registration of “multipurpose off-highway vehicles.” Only MPOHVs manufactured after January 1, 2000 may be registered.  Not all vehicles built for off-road purposes or purposes other than driving on roads will qualify as MPOHVs eligible for registration.

Vehicles that qualify as MPOHVs for registration purposes must have the following features:

  • Manufactured after January 1, 2000
  • Has the ability to transport people, cargo or both
  • Minimum cargo (payload) capacity of 350 lbs.
  • Contains a nonstraddle seat
  • Must have the ability to operate between 25-65 mph
  • Overall width of 80 inches or less
  • 4-wheels or more
  • Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) less than 4,000 lbs.
  • Steering wheel is required for steering controls

Note: These requirements eliminate the registration of dirt bikes, three-wheelers, four-wheelers and other vehicles with handlebar steering, straddle seats, and less than four wheels.

MPOHVs must also have features specifically intended for utility use. Generally, this means that MPOHVs must be vehicles designed and manufactured primarily for performing off-road tasks in agricultural, construction or industrial settings. This will exclude vehicles made for on-road use, regardless of whether such on-road use was intended for highways within Georgia or elsewhere. This will also exclude golf carts, which are designed primarily for recreational use and do not have features specifically intended for utility use.

MPOHVs must be equipped with the following safety features:

  • Headlights
  • Brake lights
  • Taillights
  • Rearview mirror
  • Safety belts

Find more information HERE