Are There Any Restrictions on How Fast You Can Drive a Golf Cart?

Golf carts are a popular mode of transportation for golf courses and other recreational areas. But what about driving them on public roads? Are there any restrictions on how fast you can drive a golf cart?The answer is yes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), golf carts and other similar vehicles are subject to state and local requirements related to safety equipment. Additionally, they cannot exceed 25 miles per hour while driving on a road where the speed limit does not exceed 25 miles per hour.

Low-speed vehicles (LSV), also known as community electric vehicles (NEV), and golf carts are regulated by state and federal laws. To be considered fully legal on the road, golf carts must meet the same registration, insurance and inspection requirements as other vehicles on the road. Most states define golf carts as vehicles specifically designed for use on a golf course and capable of reaching a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour or less. However, if these vehicles were originally manufactured so that they can go more than 20 miles per hour, they are considered motor vehicles under federal law.

This often involves equipping your golf cart with all the parts your state requires to consider it an LSV, basically converting it from a golf cart to a low-speed vehicle as far as the condition is concerned. LSVs usually look like a cool golf cart on the street with an extra dose of flavor and legal components on the street, such as blinders and seat belts. In most states, legalizing a golf cart on the street is the same process as legalizing a low-speed vehicle. The state, county, or city may prohibit the use of golf carts on all or part of a public road for safety reasons. Local laws may make golf carts legal on the street during certain hours or on certain roads, but those roads probably aren't very far from a golf course. And due to various design limitations, most golf carts can only natively drive between twelve and twenty miles per hour.

However, most golf carts come with built-in limitations, even when operating in perfect condition. For safety reasons, most golf cart manufacturers tell drivers not to go more than twenty-five miles per hour. Disclaimer: While each of these state guides provides a comprehensive approach to your state's golf cart laws, it is recommended that you do your own research and contact your local municipality.