Golf cart laws by state: where you can drive one and who can drive it
How state and local golf cart rules work and the safety steps that prevent injuries
Golf carts have moved far beyond the golf course. In retirement communities, beach towns, campgrounds and suburbs, they are now a way to get to the pool, the store or a friend’s house. Some families let children drive them around the neighborhood.
But golf carts are not cars. Most have no doors, no crash structure and no air bags, and many have no seat belts. The laws that govern them also vary widely. This guide explains the common rules and how to keep riders safe.
Golf cart or low speed vehicle?
A golf cart is usually designed to go no faster than about 20 mph. Federal vehicle safety standards do not cover it as a motor vehicle.
A low speed vehicle can go a little faster, more than 20 mph but no more than 25 mph. It must meet a federal standard that requires lights, mirrors, seat belts, a windshield and a vehicle identification number [1]. States often treat it more like a car, with registration, insurance and a driver’s license.
Many carts sold as “street legal” are really low speed vehicles. Check the paperwork and the label. See our guide to low speed vehicles for details.
How golf cart laws work
States set the basic rules. Many then let cities and counties decide which roads allow carts. That is why rules can change from one town to the next. Common limits include:
- Road speed limits. Many places allow carts only on roads posted at low speeds, often 25 or 35 mph, or only to cross larger roads.
- Designated roads. Some local governments approve specific streets or paths for carts.
- Daylight only, unless the cart has headlights and taillights.
- Distance limits, such as staying within a few miles of home or a golf course.
- Equipment, such as lights, mirrors, reflectors or a slow moving vehicle sign.
- Driver age and license requirements.
- Sidewalks are usually off limits.
Example: Florida
Florida updated its rules in 2023. On public roads where the local government allows golf carts, drivers under 18 must have a valid learner’s license or driver’s license. Drivers 18 and older must carry a government issued photo ID [2]. The law took effect October 1, 2023 [2]. Some Florida counties have added stricter local rules.
Who gets hurt
Safety rules for every golf cart
- Set a minimum driver age for your family, even if local law allows younger drivers. A license holder is the safest choice.
- Everyone sits. No standing, riding on the back or dangling legs.
- Use seat belts if the cart has them. Consider adding them if it does not.
- No one on laps and no more riders than seats.
- Hold on. Rear facing seats need grab handles, and riders should hold on during turns and stops.
- Slow down on turns. Sharp turns and sudden stops are when riders fall out [3].
- Stay off busy roads. Carts are hard for drivers to see and offer no protection in a crash.
- No alcohol. Impaired driving laws can apply to golf carts in many states.
- Lights at night, or no night driving.
Warning: A fall from a moving golf cart can cause a serious head injury. Children should never ride on the back, stand while the cart moves or sit on an adult’s lap.
Check your local rules
Before you drive a golf cart on any public road:
Checklist from Safety Behind the Wheel Foundation
- I checked my state’s golf cart law
- I checked whether my city or county allows carts on my streets
- I know the age and license rules for drivers
- My cart has any required lights, mirrors or signs
- I asked my insurer whether my cart is covered on roads
Frequently asked questions
Do I need insurance for a golf cart?
It depends on your state and how you use the cart. Homeowners insurance may not cover a cart on public roads. Ask your agent about a golf cart or low speed vehicle policy.
Can my 12 year old drive our golf cart in the neighborhood?
Check local law first. Even where it is allowed, young children lack the judgment and skill to handle traffic and emergencies. Many safety experts urge waiting until drivers are licensed.
Can I get a DUI on a golf cart?
In many states, yes. Impaired driving laws often cover any motor vehicle on a public road.
Related articles
Sources and further reading
- 1Cornell Legal Information Institute. “49 CFR 571.500: Low-speed vehicles.” law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/49/571.500
- 2Florida Senate. “CS/HB 949 (2023): Golf Cart Operation” bill summary. flsenate.gov/…/949
- 3American Academy of Pediatrics. “Pediatric golf cart injuries on the rise.” September 26, 2025. aap.org/…/pediatric-golf-cart-injurie…
This article reflects the safety priorities of community road safety and child injury prevention. It is general education, not legal advice. Golf cart rules vary by state and town, so check your local laws. Reviewed November 2026.
Special thanks to our contributors
We appreciate the professionals, experts, and community members who share their knowledge and perspectives to help make this resource better. Your insights are always welcome and appreciated.
Have professional expertise, firsthand experience, or a perspective that could make this resource better?
We welcome your input. Your knowledge and experience can help us make this resource more useful, accurate, and meaningful to the people who rely on it.
Thank you. Your contribution is on its way.
We’re grateful you took the time to share your knowledge with us. Our team reviews every contribution with care. If it helps improve this resource, we’ll update the page and recognize you the way you chose.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
