In the US, the laws of driving a golf cart on the street vary not only from state to state but also by city/municipality. More and more local authorities are embracing the presence of golf carts, particularly in states such as Florida, California, Texas, and Georgia. Other states are less open to it.
Full Answer
Are golf carts allowed on the street in the US?
Golf carts are still legally used on public roads in many U.S. states for their convenience. But where these vehicles are legal, it matters how they’re used and how they’re built and equipped. Which states allow you to drive a golf cart on the street?
Can you drive a golf cart on the street in Ri?
Golf carts can be permitted by the city or county government for areas within close proximity to a golf course. Golf carts can be driven up to one mile on low-speed public roads. You must be at least 12 years old to drive a golf cart. It is illegal to drive a golf cart on city streets in Rhode Island.
Can you drive a golf cart on the road in Oklahoma?
Here is what the state of Oklahoma has to say regarding golf cart usage on state roads. “The use of golf carts on public streets and highways is allowed within state parks as well as municipalities that have approved ordinances for their use.”
Where can you operate a golf cart without registration?
Some states also impose specific restrictions on where a golf cart can be operated. For example, in California, registration of a golf cart isn't required if it's operated within one mile of a golf course. And in South Carolina, a golf cart must be operated within four miles of the address on the registration.
Can you drive a golf cart on the road in the US?
States where golf carts are legal on public roads You cannot drive golf carts legally on public roads in Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Missouri, or Rhode Island. New York takes it a step further by explaining that you could be arrested for operating a golf cart on public roads or sidewalks or in parking lots.
Can you drive golf carts on the road in Florida?
In general, Florida only allows you to drive a golf cart on a highway if it divides a subdivision, trailer park, or golf course. You do not have to title or register a golf cart with the state, either.
Are golf carts allowed on sidewalks in Florida?
Operating golf carts on public roads, streets, or sidewalks is prohibited in Florida, but there are exceptions: golf carts can use county or municipal roads that have been designated for cart use by the governmental entity that has authority.
Do you have to have a license to drive a golf cart on the road in Indiana?
Street Legal in Indiana. Indiana's laws for low-speed vehicles require the driver to have a valid driver's license operating on public streets. Another essential requirement is to have a golf cart registration according to Indiana laws.
Can you drive golf carts in Key West?
Where can I drive a golf cart or electric car in Key West? Golf carts and electric vehicles may be used on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. The good news is, the streets in Old Town have a maximum speed limit of 20 miles per hour, so you're good to cruise around.
Where can golf carts be driven in Florida?
(1) A golf cart may be operated only upon a county road that has been designated by a county, a municipal street that has been designated by a municipality, or a two-lane county road located within the jurisdiction of a municipality designated by that municipality, for use by golf carts.
Are golf carts allowed at Florida State Parks?
Golf carts and utility vehicles may be driven on public access roads within Florida State Parks that have a speed limit of less than 30 mph. All golf cart/utility vehicle operators must: Have a valid driver's license and follow all rules of the road (all applicable state laws and local ordinances).
What is a street legal golf cart in Florida?
Golf carts are defined in section 320.01(22), Florida Statutes, as “a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour.” Golf carts may be operated on roadways that are designated for ...
Do golf carts need license plates in Florida?
But let's be clear: Guy DiMartino does not recommend anyone in the state of Florida modify their golf cart as it can often be unlawful and unsafe. Remember, the minute a golf cart exceeds speeds of 20 mph it is an LSV and requires a license, registration tag, and insurance.
Are golf carts allowed at Indiana state parks?
Golf-cart type vehicles are not permitted unless in compliance with 312 IAC 8-2-8 (c). On some DNR properties, two modes of transportation shall be allowed per campsite due to campground design or other factors.
Are golf carts allowed on county roads in Indiana?
Golf carts cannot be registered in the state of Indiana, however that does not mean they cannot be driven on public roads. In other words, your city may allow the use of golf carts on public roads. You need to check with your local jurisdiction to see if they allow this.
Do golf carts have titles?
The bottom line is that standard golf carts do not have titles. But, if they are modified to become an LSV then you must obtain a certificate of title.
Which states allow golf carts?
These states include: South Caroline. Nebraska. Louisiana. California. Additionally, states such as Illinois and Minnesota now allow these carts on some local streets.
Why are golf carts so popular?
Considering the high gas prices, more and more people are looking for a more affordable vehicle that can be used for short rides around town, which is why golf cart use is on the rise.
What is the speed limit for golf carts in Texas?
In states such as Alaska and Texas, these vehicles are allowed on roads with a forty-five miles per hour speed limit. In Montana and Mississippi, these vehicles are not allowed at all. In reality, there really isn’t much of a difference between low-speed vehicles and golf carts.
How far away from the green do you have to keep a golf cart?
The cart must be kept approximately thirty feet away from the green. Typically, signs near the green will be posted, notifying golfers that carts are not allowed beyond certain points. There may also be arrows that will direct users towards golf cart paths.
How fast is a golf cart?
A personal golf cart features a top speed that’s under twenty miles per hour. Some models are electrically powered while others are gas powered.
How fast can a low speed car go?
Low-speed vehicles are similar to golf carts, however, they’re usually electrically powered and have a top speed around twenty-five miles per hour. Since low-speed vehicles have a higher speed they are required to meet certain safety standards and must be equipped with turn signals, mirrors, a windshield, and seatbelts.
Can you drive a golf cart on the road?
If you’re not sure whether or not your state allows golf cart use on the road, make sure you check the state laws before you buy. These state laws are in place to ensure the safety of golf cart users when on the road. Fortunately, many states now allow users to drive these vehicles on certain roads, which is a huge plus for those people who live in ...
Where are golf carts legal?
Additionally, golf cart drivers must be licensed to operate a motor vehicle. Maine. Golf carts are legal for use in low-speed areas around golf courses and on islands that are habitable. Maryland.
What are the speed limits for golf carts in Illinois?
Illinois. If a municipality specifically allows it, golf carts can be driven on roadways that are deemed safe and have speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less. Indiana. Golf carts are limited to cities and towns that have passed local laws to allow for them to be driven on the road.
How old do you have to be to drive a golf cart in Minnesota?
The driver must be at least 16 years old and must have a driver’s license. Golf carts cannot be driven within 30 minutes of sunset and sunrise. Minnesota. The state of Minnesota allows for the local government to permit or not permit golf cart use on public roadways and highways under their jurisdiction.
How fast can a golf cart go?
Golf carts are not street legal and can only be driven on private property. A golf cart can be driven on public roads at a speed of 20 miles per hour with speed limits under 25 miles per hour as long as the driver is at least 14 years old.
How much weight can a golf cart carry?
The carts must not weigh more than 1,300 pounds and it should not carry more than two people, including the driver. The cart must have a safety-glazed windshield as well as fenders. Colorado. Golf carts may only operate on roads with speed limits under 35 miles per hour.
What is the speed limit for electric golf carts?
Alaska. Electric golf carts may operate on roads with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less. Arizona. Golf carts may be used on roads with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less.
When will electric golf carts be available?
Electric Vehicles / By Peter Jones / August 12, 2019. July 4, 2020. Many golf carts can go quite fast and they are very convenient to use. For this reason, many people want to use them for getting around town.
Making Street Golf Carts Legal
There are some limited types of street legal golf carts in America. If people want to make their golf carts legal, then they can do some upgrades and modifications. Their current golf cart should follow the qualifications or prerequisites imposed by the state to operate golf carts in public legally.
Exploring the Rules and Regulations of the State about Driving Vehicle Carts on Public Highways
When planning to drive a golf cart on a public street, knowing the different rules and regulations of the state on driving these low-speed vehicles is the first thing that you must learn. Upon researching, they may also know that every state or location tends to replicate federal regulations on their statutes.
The Legalities in Driving Golf Carts on Public Roads
In general, driving street legal golf carts must conform with all federal and state legalities and policies. No one should drive or use this vehicle on a public road without complying with the minimum requirements. It is because drivers might be penalized under the rule of law.
Purchasing a Legal Street Golf Cart
Before purchasing a specific type of vehicle on public roads, it would be an excellent idea to ensure that the state or local government allows it. This would be helpful, especially if they live in areas suitable, strictly patrolled by the state police.
Conclusion
From what you have learned from the discussions, every state varies in its policies and rules on driving this type of vehicle on local roads. Thus, there’s a need to follow the regulations and imposed federal regulations or policies.
Know The Difference Between Golf Carts, LSVs, and NEVs
Many states (including Florida) make distinctions between these different classifications of vehicles, and have different laws for each.
The Process Of Making Your Golf Cart Street Legal In Florida
Complete an application for registration and title. You’ll turn this in to your local DMV office, along with paying registration, title fees, and applicable taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Make Golf Carts Street Legal In Florida
The bottom line here is that if you want to take your golf cart on public roads in Florida, you must make your golf cart street legal.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve learned more about how to make your Florida golf cart street legal and have simplified the process with this guide.