can you use magic items to multiclass?

[FabulousFizban]

pop on a belt of giant strength and take a level of barbarian or something?

[darknite]

I wouldn't allow it as a DM. Using a Manual would be fine as it would be a permanent stat upgrade vs one that could goes away in an Antimagic Field. If you're not a barbarian while your laundry is being done, you're not really a barbarian.

[zinycor]

I would allow it, but I don't really care for the stay requirements to multiclass.

[BoringInfoGuy]

Not allowed by RAW.

Ruling from Sage Advice Compendium.

“Would a temporary stat bump fulfill a multiclass prerequisite, or does the base score have to meet the requirement?

Your base score, not a temporary score, has to meet a multiclassing prerequisite.”

A magic item granting an increased ability score bonus while worn is still only granting a temporary bonus.

[JackPhoenix]

From Sage Advice Compendium:


Would a temporary stat bump fulfill a multiclass prerequisite, or does the base score have to meet the requirement?
Your base score, not a temporary score, has to meet a multiclassing prerequisite

[Nhorianscum]

pop on a belt of giant strength and take a level of barbarian or something?

Ignoring the insanity of SA...

Yes, multi reqs being stat based is weird