Steve HoldenIf you own or plan on operating an ATV in Georgia, it’s important you know the laws and regulations that govern its registration and use. Failure to comply with state laws can result in hefty fines, your ATV being impounded, or in some circumstances jail time.
Depending where you search, many different opinions pop up about the ATV laws in Georgia and it’s hard to discern fact from fiction. I’ve heard countless stories from friends who knew a guy who’s cousin once got ticketed for “enter crazy reason here”. More often than not, these stories are based on an element of truth which has been bent or exaggerated as its passed between people.
We make it easier. Below you’ll find the Georgia ATV Laws which every owner and operator should be aware of. These are pulled directly from Georgia Codes and Statutes, so you know you are getting the answer directly from the source. In most cases, we have crossed referenced these laws with local lawyers and officers to ensure their accuracy.
These rules should get you started on the right (and legal) path but we always suggest you check with the local authorities before operating an ATV. Most states have provisions which allow cities and counties to set their own ATV regulations. Not only can they help you operate it legally, but also safely.
Georgia ATV Ownership and Registration
The following laws govern how ATV ownership and transfer must be documented with the state of Georgia, as well as whether it will require registration before it may be used. These laws are often similar to what you would expect when purchasing a new automobile, but there are a few differences to make note of. Failure to comply with these regulations will typically result in fines but can potentially lead to your ATV being impounded if there are multiple offenses.
Do I Have to Title my ATV in Georgia?
No – § 40-3-4 – Georgia law does not allow vehicles which are not sold for the purpose of lawful highway use to be titled with the state.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Georgia if I use it on Private Property?
No – ATVs operated within the state of Georgia do not require registration when operated on private property.
Do I have to Registered my ATV in Georgia if I use it on Public Property?
No – ATVs operated on public roads or land in Georgia do not require registration with the state.
Georgia ATV Operation
The following laws establish how an a ATV may be legally operated within the state of Georgia, on both private and public/state owned property. While ATVs do have 4 wheels, they are designed for off-road use and typically do not meet federal safety guidelines. As such, the state created laws to limit their use and protect the public from accidents. Failure to abide by these laws will typically result in costlier fines and potentially jail time depending on the offense.
What is the Minimum Age to Operate an ATV in Georgia?
NA – § 40-6-3 – The state of Georgia does not specify a minimum age at which an ATV may be operated on private property or state property. If an ATV is operated on public roads, or forest roads, then the rider must comply with all motor vehicle laws including holding a license and be 16 years of age or older.
Can I Drive my ATV on Public Roads in Georgia?
No – Georgia requires any vehicle used on public roads in the state to be registered with that state. As the Georgia DOR does not allow the registration of ATVs, they cannot be operated on public roads.
Required Equipment in Georgia
The following items are required by Georgia law to be installed upon an ATV or worn by an operator during use.
| Helmet | Not Required. |
| Headlight(s) | Not Required. |
| Tail Light | Not Required. |
| Muffler | Required. |
| Spark Arrestor | Not Required. |
| Brakes | Required. |
| Other |
Georgia ATV Rules of the Road
- Private Property – It is illegal to operate an ATV on public property without the permission of the land owner.
- Perennial Streams – ATVs may not be operated within any perennial stream, except when directly crossing.
- DUI/DWI – It is illegal in every state to operate a motor vehicle on public roads or property while under the influence of alcohol. Most states also employ a zero tolerance approach to ATVs and more strict penalties for excessive blood alcohol concentrations (BAC).