What are the requirements to drive a golf cart?
Each state has its own set of rules when it comes to golf carts, so be sure to check the law governing golf carts in your state before you head out on the road. Even if golf cart insurance isn't mandatory where you live, it can still be beneficial to have. It will offer some financial security if you get into an accident or if something happens to your vehicle.
Basic liability coverage can vary based on a few factors like age, location, and driving history. You can also choose to upgrade your insurance to include comprehensive coverage and collision coverage, medical payments coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, and accessory coverage for an additional cost. Here are a few basic golf cart guidelines that hold true across the entire country:
Golf carts can only operate during daylight hours
If your state allows golf carts on public roads, make sure to limit your driving time to the hours between sunrise and sunset.
Golf carts need to be street legal
A standard golf cart can't be driven on public roads in most states. To take your golf cart off private property, you'll have to make a few upgrades. Street-legal golf carts need to have headlights and taillights, brake lights, reflectors, mirrors, turn signals, a windshield, a horn, and seatbelts.
Don't drink and drive a golf cart
Just like any other vehicle, you need to be below the legal limit of alcohol while operating a golf cart. Otherwise, you could receive a DUI (while also putting the safety of yourself and others at risk).
You may need to register your golf cart
If you're planning to take your golf cart onto public roads, you may need to register it with the state and get a set of license plates. If your golf cart isn't leaving your private property, you probably don't need to register your vehicle. However, double-check with your state's DMV – just to be sure. Learn more about what golf cart insurance covers.
Do you need a driver's license to drive a golf cart?
Most states require drivers to have a license when operating a golf cart on public roads. However, some allow persons without a license to drive a golf cart as long as they're accompanied by a licensed adult or driving on private property.
How old do you have to be to drive a golf cart?
The legal age to drive a golf cart varies by state and can fall anywhere between 12 and 18 years old, depending on where you live. Many states set 16 as the age when you can start driving a golf cart. Young drivers without a license often need to be accompanied by an adult. And if someone underage and unlicensed gets into an accident, it's the parents or guardians who may be liable to pay for damages.
