While Florida golf cart laws are rather laid back, LSV laws are strict. Essentially, a person is driving a standard vehicle with a few limitations. The first major limitation is that they are not allowed on roads with speed limits over 35 mph.
What is the difference between a golf cart and an LSV?
An LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle) and golf cart are two distinct and different classifications, so, while an LSV can be used as a golf cart, it is not technically a golf cart. An LSV is described as an electric vehicle that has a top speed of greater than 20 MPH but less than 25 MPH varying state by state.
Are golf carts street legal in Florida?
Yes, golf carts are street legal in Florida. They must be registered and have the proper insurance, and are restricted to public streets with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph. You also need a valid driver’s license to operate a golf cart in Florida.
Are there different insurance requirements for LSVs and golf carts?
In some states, their are different insurance requirements for LSVs as opposed to golf carts. Stratum Insurance Agency sells LSV and Golf Cart Insurance in over 30 states, and requesting a quote is simple.
What is a low-speed vehicle (LSV)?
LSV or otherwise called “Low-Speed Vehicles” is a type of vehicle that belongs to the golf cart and NEV family. These vehicles are used for driving around the golf course, on vacations, and for other day-to-day purposes. These are generally economical to maintain, and fun to drive.
What do I need to make my golf cart street legal in Florida?
LSVs must be registered, titled and insured with personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) insurance. Any person operating an LSV must have a valid driver license. LSVs may only be operated on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 MPH or less.
Can you drive a golf cart on the street in Florida?
(6) A golf cart must be equipped with efficient brakes, reliable steering apparatus, safe tires, a rearview mirror, and red reflectorized warning devices in both the front and rear. (7) A golf cart may not be operated on public roads or streets by any person under the age of 14.
What is the difference between a LSV and a golf cart?
Essentially, a “golf cart” (technically, golf “car”) is suitable ONLY for golf courses or travelling within one mile of a golf course on a road designated for such use. A low speed vehicle, or “LSV”, is a motor vehicle that has been modified for limited street use.
Do I need a tag for a golf cart in Florida?
You do not have to title or register a golf cart with the state, either. When driving a golf cart in Florida, you still have to abide by the rules of the road, such as yielding the right of way.
What are the golf cart laws in Florida?
Golf carts are not required to be titled or registered and, therefore, are not required to be insured with PIP and PDL insurance coverage. Golf cart operators are not required to have a driver license; however, to operate a golf cart on designated public roadways, a person must be 14 years or older.
Can you make a side by side street legal in Florida?
In states like Florida, residents legalizing a UTV for street use have it easy when it comes to mirrors. Under Florida law, motor vehicles need have only one mirror. This mirror must reflect the road 200 feet behind the vehicle to the driver.
Are LSV golf carts good?
These vehicles are an excellent alternative transportation on roads that have a speed limit of around 35mph or less. A LSV is a terrific mode of travel if you want to take a quick trip to the store, take the kids to the community pool, or visit a friend in the neighborhood.
What are the benefits of LSV?
Benefits of LSVs Here's why: typically an LSV will drive for approximately 30 miles on a full charge, as many are electrically powered. These 30 miles may not sound like much, but at a constant speed of 20 mph, that allows for an hour and a half round-trip drive.
What makes a golf cart LSV?
There are two main things that distinguish a golf cart from a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV), sometimes referred to as a Low-Speed Vehicle or LSV: - The maximum speed of a golf cart is 15mph. - An NEV / LSV must go 25mph or more. - An NEV has headlights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts, and even a VIN number.
Are LSV legal in Florida?
In Florida, LSVs are restricted to public streets with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph. Because of federal law,dealers cannot legally sell the vehicles to go faster than 25 mph. Any vehicle modified to exceed 25 mph becomes subject to safety requirements of passenger cars.
How do I convert my golf cart to LSV?
The process of converting a golf cart to an LSV includes many steps....For a golf car to be considered a low speed vehicle (LSV), three things must be true:The golf car must have DOT mandated safety accessories.The golf car must be registered, titled and tagged, with a VIN.The golf car must be properly insured.
How much is golf cart insurance in Florida?
If your golf cart is not registered with the FL DMV, you should be able to cover your Golf Cart with a simple endorsement to your home insurance or a stand-alone Golf Cart insurance policy. The cost of both options is relatively small (usually between $70-$150 per year), but I'd strongly suggest the stand-alone policy.
What is a 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 golf carts ...
What is the speed limit for LSVs?
LSVs may be operated only on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 MPH or less and must be equipped with the following safety equipment: Headlamps; Front and rear turn signals; Stop lamps; Tail lamps;
How fast can an ATV go in Florida?
Florida law, states that all-terrain vehicles (ATV) may only be operated on unpaved roadways where the posted speed limit is less than 35 MPH and only during daylight hours. However, a county may choose to be exempt from this. Or alternatively, a county may, designate certain unpaved roadways where an ATV may be operated during the daytime as long as each such designated roadway has a posted speed limit of less than 35 miles per hour and is appropriately marked to indicate permissible ATV use. Anyone under the age of 16 operating an ATV on public land must be under the supervision of an adult and must have proof of completion of a Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) safety course. ATV operators and riders under the age of 16 must wear a USDOT approved safety helmet and eye protection. ATVs are titled, but not registered, and are not required to be insured with PIP and PDL coverage. To title an ATV, submit a completed form HSMV 82040 to a Motor Vehicle Service Center. (Sections 261.20, 316.2074 and 316.2123, Florida Statutes)
How to title an ATV in Florida?
To title an ATV, submit a completed form HSMV 82040 to a Motor Vehicle Service Center. (Sections 261.20, 316.2074 and 316.2123, Florida Statutes) For more information on DACS approved safety courses, visit Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Off-Highway Vehicle Safety and Recreation.
What is an OHV in Florida?
Low Speed and All-Terrain Vehicles. Florida’s mild climate makes outdoor activities a year-round option. Low speed vehicles (LSV), golf carts and off-highway vehicles (OHV) are a great way to enjoy local communities and natural spaces. It is important that consumers understand the differences between LSVs, golf carts and OHVs, ...
What is the maximum speed of a four wheeler in Florida?
Section 320.01 (41), Florida Statutes, defines LSVs as “any four-wheeled vehicle whose top speed is greater than 20 miles per hour, but not greater than 25 miles per hour.” LSVs must be registered, titled and insured with personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) insurance. Any person operating an LSV must have a valid driver license in their immediate possession.
How old do you have to be to ride an ATV?
Anyone under the age of 16 operating an ATV on public land must be under the supervision of an adult and must have proof of completion of a Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) safety course. ATV operators and riders under the age of 16 must wear a USDOT approved safety helmet and eye protection.
Current Florida Statute On Golf Cart Operation
If you are only planning on operating your golf cart on a golf course and on your private property, the Florida Statutes, defines the rules in section 320.01 (22) 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 MPH." Golf carts are allowed to be operated on roadways that are designated for golf carts with a posted speed limit of 30 MPH or less.
How To Convert Your Golf Cart To A LSV
Now that you know what's needed, how do you go about converting your golf cart to a street legal LSV? It's really a simple process! The first thing you need to do is make sure your golf cart is equipped with all of the safety equipment listed above.
Let's wrap this up!
The information above is based on current Florida statutes as of January 2021. Laws and statutes can change depending on your location. Please do your due diligence and verify the above information with your local DMV to be sure it is still applicable.
What is the difference between a golf cart and a LSV?
Compared to a standard vehicle, a cart and a low-speed vehicle might seem like the same. Both vehicles travel slower than the normal flow of traffic. However, in Florida, a low-speed vehicle requires an operator license to drive. A standard cart designed for the course has more lenient rules.
What Are the Golf Cart Laws in Florida?
As soon as a person turns 14 years of age, they are legally allowed to drive a golf cart in the state of Florida. Driving a cart comes with some serious restrictions. Carts are relegated to specific types of roads, and they can only be on the road at certain times.
What Are the LSV Laws in Florida?
While Florida golf cart laws are rather laid back, LSV laws are strict. Essentially, a person is driving a standard vehicle with a few limitations. The first major limitation is that they are not allowed on roads with speed limits over 35 mph. The other involves night-time driving.
What Do You Need for the DMV to Register a LSV?
To properly register a low-speed vehicle, the following must be provided:
Final Thoughts
Florida continues to grow as a state, and more and more people are looking at golf carts and low-speed vehicles as safe, efficient ways to get around in residential areas. As long as a person is not recklessly driving in one, these vehicles require no gas, are easy to jump in and out of and spacious enough to carry around multiple people.
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.
What is the legal speed for a golf cart in Florida?
Defined by Florida Statute 320.01 (42) as “any four-wheeled electric vehicles whose top speed is greater than 20 miles per hour but not greater ...
What is a golf cart in Florida?
320.01 Definitions, general.–As used in the Florida Statutes, except as otherwise provided, the term: (22) “Golf cart” means 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. (42) “Low-speed vehicle” means any ...
How fast can a LSV go in Florida?
In Florida, LSVs are restricted to public streets with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph. Because of federal law,dealers cannot legally sell the vehicles to go faster than 25 mph. Any vehicle modified to exceed 25 mph becomes subject to safety requirements of passenger cars. Therefore, the operation of an LSV or NEV necessarily follows the same laws, ...
What is a condition to cross a portion of the State Highway System that intersects a county road or municipal
conditions: To cross a portion of the State Highway System which intersects a county road or municipal street that has been designated for use by golf carts if the Department of Transportation has reviewed and approved the location and design of the crossing and any traffic control devices needed for safety purposes.
How fast can a golf cart go on a highway?
Golf carts and utility vehicles may cross a. portion of the State Highway System which has a posted speed limit of 45 miles per hour or less only at an intersection with an official traffic control device. Golf carts and utility vehicles may operate.
What is a low speed vehicle?
In Federal regulations, LSVs are defined as a four-wheeled motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 3,000 pounds and a top speed of between 20 mph to 25 mph. In Florida, LSVs are restricted to public streets ...
What is considered in making a determination of golf carts?
The speed, volume, and character of motor vehicular traffic using the road is considered in making such a determination. Upon its determination that golf carts may be operated on a given road, the department shall post appropriate signs on the road to indicate that such operation is allowed.
What are the requirements for a golf cart?
A golf cart must be equipped with efficient brakes, reliable steering apparatus, safe tires, a rearview mirror, and red reflectorized warning devices in both the front and rear. Operating a golf cart on public roads is prohibited unless the road has been determined safe by local jurisdiction to be used by golf carts.
How fast can a golf cart go?
Golf carts may not be operated on public roads or streets by persons under the age of 14. Golf carts are only allowed a max speed of 20 MPH or less. For more information on golf carts and roadways/equipment visit this link HERE. UPDATE (04-16-18), Gulf Breeze: Golf Carts will be allowed to operate on all streets in Gulf Breeze, FL.
What are the requirements for a low speed vehicle?
Guidelines for LSV (Low Speed Vehicle) 1 Reaches speeds of 20 MPH to 25 MPH. 2 Has a vehicle identification number (VIN) 3 Headlamps 4 Front and rear turn signals 5 Taillamps 6 Stop lamps 7 Reflex reflectors, red – one on each side and one on the rear 8 Exterior mirror on the driver side and an interior mirror or exterior mirror on passenger side 9 Parking brake 10 Windshield 11 Seatbelt for each designated seat 12 Not be operated on any roadway with a speed limit above 35 mph.
What equipment is needed for a golf cart?
This equipment includes brake lights, headlights, turn signals, windshields, and reflective devices.
Can you register a golf cart as a LSV?
For LSVs, yes. For Golf Carts, no (unless the golf cart has been modified into a LSV. Registration information on modified Golf Carts can be found HERE and the Affidavit HERE ).
Can you drive a golf cart at night?
Golf cart s may only travel during daytime unless the local government has authorized night driving and the golf cart is equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield. Then, it may be used at night. Golf carts may not be operated on public roads or streets by persons under the age of 14.
What is the maximum speed of an LSV golf cart?
What Is An LSV Golf Cart? An LSV is defined by law as a 4-wheeled vehicle whose maximum speed falls between 20 and 25 mph on a flat paved road.
What is the difference between a golf cart and a low speed vehicle?
What Is The Difference Between A Golf Cart And A Low-Speed Vehicle? An L SV (Low-Speed Vehicle) and golf cart are two distinct and different classifications, so, while an LSV can be used as a golf cart , it is not technically a golf cart. An LSV is described as an electric vehicle that has a top speed of greater than 20 MPH ...
How fast can a golf cart go on a road?
Remember that an LSV is required to be an electric vehicle, not a gas model, so if your cart cannot exceed 19 MPH on a flat paved county road you will need to modify the motor and/or controller. The Complete Guide To Making A Golf Cart Street Legal – Click Here.
What is the speed limit for a golf cart?
A golf cart, by contrast, is to have a top speed of under 20 MPH. The public road maximum speed limit also varies by locale, so check the chart below for your state traffic laws. A street legal golf cart is known as an LSV or low-speed vehicle. State and federal safety standards laws dictate what requirements need to be met in order ...
What is a golf cart?
Golf carts are also known as golf cars. The term "cart", in its purest sense, refers to a vehicle that does not travel under its own power. Golf cars, however, are most commonly referred to as golf... Continue Reading.
What is the speed limit for LSVs in Colorado?
Roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less; Colorado DOT may permit LSVs on some roadways with a speed limit equal to 40 mph. 25. Connecticut. No state law. No state law. Delaware. Roads, other than dual highways in unincorporated areas, where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less. 25. District of Columbia.
Can you drive a LSV on the freeway?
Since LSV’s are classified as slow-moving vehicles, you won’t be able to take them out on the freeway.
