Multipurpose, off-highway vehicles (MPOHV), or side-by-sides as they are commonly known, are required to be insured when they travel on county roads, a new privilege extended by the last session of the Georgia General Assembly.
As of December 1, owners of MPOHV can apply to register their vehicles through the county tax commissioner’s office, the same as with any vehicle needing a license plate. With a registration, side-by-sides meeting all the requirements of the law can be driven on any county road.
However, they are not allowed on city streets or state highways. They are only allowed to cross those roadways, according to the new law.
Fannin County Tax Commissioner Rita Newton said last week several requirements are set forth by the state before a side-by-side can be registered.
They must have the minimum liability auto insurance coverage.
When applying for a registration, the vehicle owner must provide a Multipurpose Off-Highway Vehicle Inspection Affidavit.
By signing this document, the owner certifies the MPOHV meets the following requirements:
•Uses a steering wheel;
•Operates between 25 and 65 miles per hour;
•Width is equal to or less than 80 inches;
•Has a minimum cargo capacity of 350 pounds;
•Travels on four or more wheels;
•Has a gross vehicle weight of less than 4,000 pounds;
•Has features specifically intended for utility use; and,
•UTV-built by manufacturer for task purposes.
State law calls for a registered vehicle to have headlights, brake lights, taillights, a rear view mirror and safety belts.
The inspection form, MV-OHV, can be downloaded from the Georgia Department of Revenue website at dor.georgia.gov.
Newton said her office can also provide the form. She reminds vehicle owners they can fill out the form, sign it and have it notarized before coming to her office, or bring a completed form to her office and sign it in the presence of a staff member and it will be notarized for them. But the staff will never notarize a form they did not witness being signed.
Besides the inspection form and proof of insurance, also required is the vehicle owner’s identification and proof of ownership, which can include a bill of sale.
Newton said the vehicle will only be registered, a title will not be issued. The cost of registration is $20.
Once registered, the owner will receive a registration certificate. A tag will follow in the mail. The Department of Revenue has not sent tags to individual county tax offices.