The Guernsey County Sheriff's Office will now be inspecting Under Speed Vehicles (USVs) for registration so that they may be used on public streets where permitted. USVs are defined by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles as: a four wheeled vehicle other than a truck that either is originally designed and constructed with a top attainable speed of 20 MPH or less, or is not originally designed and constructed for operation on a street or highway. Most golf carts are USVs.

Prior to being licensed the USV must first pass inspection for all required motor vehicle equipment.

To register a USV an applicant must first complete these steps:

1. Check with your local municipality to see if USVs are allowed in the municipality and what restrictions there might be for their operation.
2. Obtain at least state minimum liability insurance on said USV.
3. Bring USV to the Guernsey County Sheriff's Office to be inspected by a Deputy.
4. Take certificate of inspection to the Clerk of Courts Title Office and obtain a title for the USV.
5. Take title and inspection certificate to the BMV, if all is in order you will be able to obtain license plates.
6. Once the USV is licensed it must be operated in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Chapter 4511 and with the equipment listed in ORC Chapter 4513.

Items that are required to pass the USV inspection are:

1. Proof of Insurance.
2. At least one rear tail light visible from at least 500 feet.
3. Two rear facing reflectors (most tail lights are reflectors).
4. Rear license plate light (must be white).
5. Two brake lights visible from at least 500 feet.
6. Two working headlights that are capable of illuminating objects at a distance of 74 feet.
7. Working horn audible from 200 feet.
8. Rear view mirror.
9. Windshield of glass or safety glass.
10. Turn signals.
11. Brackets for mounting of front and rear license plates.

USVs are restricted from operation on public streets or highways where the posted speed limit is higher than 35 MPH.

There is no charge for the inspection but USVs must be brought to the Sheriff's Office.