State Golf Cart Laws
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State & Local Regulations
Registration & Operation of Golf Carts on the roadway
ALABAMA - Golf Cart Operation
32-1-J.1 (81) or 40-12-240(27) Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
ALASKA - Golf Cart Operation
ARIZONA - Golf Cart Operation
ARKANSAS - Golf Cart Operation
CALIFORNIA - Golf Cart Operation
COLORADO - Golf Cart Operation
CONNECTICUT - Golf Cart Operation
DELAWARE - Golf Cart Operation
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA - Golf Cart Operation
FLORIDA - Golf Cart Operation
316.212 Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
The operation of a golf cart upon the public roads or streets of this state is prohibited except as provided herein:
(1) A golf cart may be operated only upon a county road that has been designated by a county, or a municipal street that has been designated by a municipality, for use by golf carts. Prior to making such a designation, the responsible local governmental entity must first determine that golf carts may safely travel on or cross the public road or street, considering factors including the speed, volume, and character of motor vehicle traffic using the road or street. Upon a determination that golf carts may be safely operated on a designated road or street, the responsible governmental entity shall post appropriate signs to indicate that such operation is allowed.
(2) A golf cart may be operated on a part of the State Highway System only under the following conditions:
(a) 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.(b) To cross, at mid-block, a part of the State Highway System where a golf course is constructed on both sides of the highway 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.(c) A golf cart may be operated on a state road that has been designated for transfer to a local government unit pursuant to s. 335.0415 if the Department of Transportation determines that the operation of a golf cart within the right-of-way of the road will not impede the safe and efficient flow of motor vehicular traffic. The department may authorize the operation of golf carts on such a road if:1. The road is the only available public road along which golf carts may travel or cross or the road provides the safest travel route among alternative routes available; and2. 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.(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a golf cart may be operated for the purpose of crossing a street or highway where a single mobile home park is located on both sides of the street or highway and is divided by that street or highway, provided that the governmental entity having original jurisdiction over such street or highway shall review and approve the location of the crossing and require implementation of any traffic controls needed for safety purposes. This subsection shall apply only to residents or guests of the mobile home park. If notice is posted at the entrance and exit of any mobile home park where residents of the park operate golf carts or electric vehicles within the confines of the park, it is not necessary for the park to have a gate or other device at the entrance and exit in order for such golf carts or electric vehicles to be lawfully operated in the park.(4) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, if authorized by the Division of Recreation and Parks of the Department of Environmental Protection, a golf cart may be operated on a road that is part of the State Park Road System if the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.(5) A golf cart may be operated only during the hours between sunrise and sunset, unless the responsible governmental entity has determined that a golf cart may be operated during the hours between sunset and sunrise and the golf cart is equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield.(6) A golf cart must be equipped with efficient brakes, reliable steering apparatus, safe tires, a rear-view 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.(8) A local governmental entity may enact an ordinance regarding golf cart operation and equipment which is more restrictive than those enumerated in this section. Upon enactment of such ordinance, the local governmental entity shall post appropriate signs or otherwise inform the residents that such an ordinance exists and that it will be enforced within the local government's jurisdictional territory. An ordinance referred to in this section must apply only to an unlicensed driver. (9) A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable pursuant to chapter 318 as a moving violation for infractions of subsections (1)-(5) or a local ordinance corresponding thereto and enacted pursuant to subsection (8), or punishable pursuant to chapter 318 as a non-moving violation for infractions of subsection (6), subsection (7), or a local ordinance corresponding thereto and enacted pursuant to subsection (8). (A vehicle titled or branded and registered as a low-speed vehicle may be converted to a golf cart pursuant to the following: 1. The owner of the converted vehicle must contact the regional office of the department to verify the conversion, surrender the registration license plate and the current certificate of title, and pay the appropriate fee established under paragraph (b). 2. The owner of the converted vehicle must provide an affidavit to the department attesting that the vehicle has been modified to comply with the speed restrictions provided in s. 320.01(22) and acknowledging that the vehicle must be operated in accordance with s. 316.212, s. 316.2125, s. 316.2126, or s. 196 316.21265. 3. Upon verification of the conversion, the department shall note in the vehicle record that the low-speed vehicle has been converted to a golf cart and shall cancel the certificate of title and registration of the vehicle. (b) The department shall establish a fee of $40 to cover the cost of verification and associated administrative costs for carrying out its responsibilities under this subsection. (c) The department shall issue a decal reflecting the conversion of the vehicle to a golf cart, upon which is clearly legible the following text: “CONVERTED VEHICLE. Max speed 20 mph.” The decal must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle, so that the decal is plainly visible. Section 2. This act shall take effect July 1, 2013.27
GEORGIA - Golf Cart Operation
HAWAII - Golf Cart Operation
IDAHO - Golf Cart Operation
Golf carts . . . operated by persons who by reason of physical disability or who are otherwise unable to move about as pedestrians shall be exempt from registration requirements under the provisions of this chapter. Golf carts are not motor vehicles as defined by code, i.e., “Every vehicle which is self-propelled, and for the purpose of titling and registration meets federal motor vehicle safety standards as defined by the above listed Idaho Code." Most likely, a golf car is classified as "Specialty off-highway vehicle" which means any vehicle manufactured, designed or constructed exclusively for off- highway operation that does not fit the definition of an all-terrain vehicle, utility type vehicle or motorbike as defined in this section.
ILLINOIS - Golf Cart Operation
INDIANA - Golf Cart Operation
IOWA - Golf Cart Operation
KANSAS - Golf Cart Operation
KENTUCKY - Golf Cart Operation
LOUISIANA - Golf Cart Operation
MAINE - Golf Cart Operation
MARYLAND - Golf Cart Operation
MASSACHUSETTS - Golf Cart Operation
MICHIGAN - Golf Cart Operation
MINNESOTA - Golf Cart Operation
MISSISSIPPI - Golf Cart Operation
MISSOURI - Golf Cart Operation
Municipalities may regulate golf cart, and motorized wheelchair usage on streets, and highways.(1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the governing body of any municipality may by resolution or ordinance allow persons to operate golf carts or motorized wheelchairs upon any street or highway under the governing body's jurisdiction. A golf cart or motorized wheelchair shall not be operated at any time on any state or federal highway, but may be operated upon such highway in order to cross a portion of the state highway system which intersects a municipal street. No golf cart or motorized wheelchair shall cross any highway at an intersection where the highway being crossed has a posted speed limit of more than 45 mph. (2) Golf carts operated on city streets shall be equipped with adequate brakes and shall meet any other safety requirements imposed by the governing body. Golf carts are not subject to the registration provisions of chapter 301, RSMo.3. As used in this section, a "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 mph.
MONTANA - Golf Cart Operation
(1) A person may not operate a golf cart on a public street or highway open to the public unless the operation is specifically authorized by ordinance or regulation passed by the local governing body of the county, city, or town for a public street or highway under its jurisdiction. (2) A person operating a golf cart under this section must have a valid driver's license. (3) A golf cart may not be operated on a public street or highway when permitted by this section unless it is equipped with: (a) at least 1 and not more than 2 headlamps; (b) at least 1 tail lamp; (c) at least 1 reflector; (d) stop lamps; (e) a horn; and (f) a mirror that reflects to the driver a view of the highway. (4) Except as provided in 61-3-321, a golf cart is exempt from titling, registration, and mandatory liability insurance requirements under this title.
NEBRASKA - Golf Cart Operation
Golf car vehicle means a vehicle that has at least 4 wheels, has a maximum level ground speed of less than 20 mph, has a maximum payload capacity of 1,200 pounds, has a maximum gross vehicle weight of 2,500 pounds, has a maximum passenger capacity of not more than 4 persons, and is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting and recreational purposes; A golf car is not included within the definition of a motor vehicle. A city or village may adopt an ordinance authorizing the operation of golf car vehicles within the corporate limits of the city or village if the operation is on streets adjacent and contiguous to a golf course. A county board may adopt a resolution authorizing the operation of golf car vehicles within the county if the operation is on roads adjacent and contiguous to a golf course. Any person operating a golf car vehicle as authorized under this section shall have a valid Class O operator’s license and the owner of the golf car vehicle shall have liability insurance coverage for the golf car vehicle. The Department of Roads may prohibit the operation of golf car vehicles on any highway under its jurisdiction if it determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of public safety.
NEVADA - Golf Cart Operation
Golf carts may be operated in residential developments where the appropriate city or county government has approved their use. A DMV permit and insurance are required in certain developments in Clark County where carts are used as general transportation. It is the responsibility of the golf cart owner to know what roads are designated as permissible for the operation of golf carts. Issuance in county whose population is 700,000 or more; conditions under which permit not necessary. In a county whose population is 700,000 or more, a permit for the operation of a golf cart may be issued by the Department if the golf cart is equipped as required by subsection (2) and evidence of insurance as required for the registration of a motor vehicle is submitted when application for the permit is made. A golf cart must have the following equipment: Headlamps; Tail lamps, reflectors, stop lamps and an emblem or placard for slow moving vehicles; A mirror; and Brakes. Each of these items of equipment must meet the standards prescribed for motor vehicles generally. A permit is not required for the operation of a golf cart during daylight, by a person holding a current driver’s license, if the golf cart is: Equipped with an emblem or placard for slow moving vehicles; and Operated solely upon that portion of a highway designated by the appropriate city or county as a: Crossing for golf carts; or Route of access between a golf course and the residence or temporary abode of the owner or operator of the golf cart. Golf carts that require permits must be inspected at a DMV VIN Inspection Station (at Full Service Offices) prior to first-time registration. Permits cost $10.00 per year and expire on December 31st. Golf Cart Permit Application (SP-16) For carts operated on public streets in specific residential developments. You must provide a Nevada Evidence of Insurance card at registration. Renewal notices are mailed in early December each year. You may renew by mail or in person.
NEW HAMPSHIRE - Golf Cart Operation
Golf car not defined in motor vehicle code. It is likely a golf car would have to be converted to a "Neighborhood electric vehicle'' if it is to be driven on public roads. An NEV shall mean any 4-wheeled electric vehicle that has a maximum speed which is greater than 20 mph but not greater than 25 mph, and which complies with the federal safety standards established in 49 CFR of above listed code.
NEW JERSEY - Golf Cart Operation
NEW MEXICO - Golf Cart Operation
"Motor vehicle" means every vehicle that is self-propelled, and every vehicle that is propelled by electric power obtained from batteries or from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails; but for the purposes of the Mandatory Financial Responsibility Act 66-5-201 NMSA 1978, "motor vehicle" does not include "special mobile equipment"; (k) "special mobile equipment" means a vehicle not designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property and incidentally operated or moved over the highways, including but not limited to farm tractors, road construction or maintenance machinery, ditch-digging apparatus, well-boring apparatus and concrete mixers. According to some, the state motor vehicle code is not allowed to prevent local authorities from regulating the use of such vehicles, as long as resolutions made by those local authorities do not allow such vehicles on state highways. The debate really kicks up when people argue over the classification of a golf cart. Is it a motorized vehicle or a neighborhood electric car? If it is the former, then it must be insured, licensed and registered. If it is the latter, the driver must possess a valid driver's license.
NEW YORK - Golf Cart Operation
No provision for operation of golf cars on public roads. Golf cars not excluded from definition of motor vehicle. “Motor Vehicle” means Every vehicle operated, or driven upon a public highway which, is propelled by any power other than muscular power, except (a) electrically driven mobility assistance devices operated or driven by a person with a disability, (a-1) electric personal assistive mobility devices operated outside a city with a population of one million or more, (b) vehicles which run only upon rails or tracks, (c) snowmobiles as defined in article 47 of this chapter, and (d) all terrain vehicles as defined in article 48-B of this chapter. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, local authorities shall have no power to pass, enforce or maintain any ordinance, rule or regulation requiring from any owner of a motor vehicle or motorcycle, or from any operator or chauffeur to whom this chapter is applicable, any tax, fee, license or permit for the use of the public highways.
NORTH CAROLINA - Golf Cart Operation
"Golf Cart"...A vehicle 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. (a) Notwithstanding the provisions of G.S. 20-5077 and G.S. 20-5478, a county may, by ordinance, regulate the operation of golf carts, as defined in G.S. 20-4.01(12a) sic.-12b, on any public street, road, or highway where the speed limit is 35 mph or less within the county that is located in any unincorporated areas of the county or on any property owned or leased by the county. (b) By ordinance, a county may require the registration of golf carts, charge a fee for the registration, specify who is authorized to operate golf carts, and specify the required equipment, load limits, and the hours and methods of operation of golf carts. No person less than 16 years of age may operate a golf cart on a public street, road, or highway. In 2010 North Carolina published a “Model Ordinance of the County/Town/City, North Carolina Establishing a Golf Cart Ordinance”.
NORTH DAKOTA - Golf Cart Operation
The governing body of a city may allow by an ordinance the operation of golf carts on the city streets. The ordinance may not allow a golf cart on federal, state, or county highways in the city, except for the perpendicular crossing of these highways. The ordinance may not allow the operation of a golf cart on city streets except for daytime travel between the owner's place of residence and a golf course. Golf carts that are allowed to operate on the city streets as the result of an ordinance are exempt from the title, registration, and equipment provisions of title 39.81
OHIO - Golf Carts and Other Under-Speed Vehicles
Ohio Revised Code (O.R.C.) 4503.10
OKLAHOMA - Golf Cart Operation
1102, Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
A. The self-propelled or motor-driven and operated vehicles described in this section shall be prohibited from operating or shall be limited in operation on the streets and highways of this state. C. Golf carts and utility vehicles, as defined by Section 1102 of this title, shall not be operated on the streets and highways of this state except: (1) Golf carts or utility vehicles owned by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, and operated by employees or agents of the Department or employees of independent management companies working on behalf of the Department, may be operated on the streets and highways of this state during daylight hours or under rules developed by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission, when the streets and highways are located within the boundaries of a state park. The Department shall have warning signs placed at the entrance and other locations at those state parks allowing golf carts or utility vehicles to be operated on the streets and highways of this state located within the boundaries of those state parks. The warning signs shall state that golf carts and utility vehicles may be operating on streets and highways and that motor vehicle operators shall take special precautions to be alert for the presence of golf carts or utility vehicles on the streets and highways; (2) The municipal governing body has adopted an ordinance governing the operation of golf carts and/or utility vehicles on city streets; provided, such ordinances shall include necessary vehicle lighting and safety requirements; (3) Golf carts or utility vehicles may operate on state highways only if making a perpendicular crossing of a state highway located within the boundaries of a municipality which has adopted an ordinance governing the operation of golf carts and/or utility vehicles; or (4) The board of county commissioners of a county has approved the operation of golf cart and/or utility vehicle traffic on roadways within the county, and: (a) the roadway has a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less, (b) the roadway is located in an unincorporated area, and (c) appropriate signage, cautioning motorists of the possibility of golf cart or utility vehicle traffic, is erected by the board of county commissioners.
OREGON - Golf Cart Operation
A road authority, on any of its own highways that are located adjacent to a golf course, may permit the operation of golf carts between the golf course and the place where golf carts are parked or stored or located within or bounded by a real estate development. All of the following apply to the authority granted under this section: (1) Exercise of the authority granted under this section must be by means of an ordinance. (2) The authority granted under this section may only be exercised where the combined operation of golf carts and regular vehicle traffic can be accomplished safely. (3) A road authority shall prescribe rules and shall regulate the combined operation of golf carts and vehicles when permitted under this section. The rules may establish speed limits and other operating standards but shall not require that golf carts conform with the vehicle equipment laws under the vehicle code. (4) A designation of combined operation under this section or rules instituted under this section are effective when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are posted along the affected highway and are not effective before such posting. (5) If a designation is made under this section to permit combined operation, the golf carts operated in accordance with the designation and rules adopted by the road authority qualifies for the exemptions under ORS 820.210 (Registration exemptions for golf carts and similar vehicles). (6) This section only applies to real estate developments that have single or multiple family residences whose owners or occupants are eligible for membership in or the use of one or more golf courses within the development by virtue of ownership or occupancy of a residential dwelling unit in the development. (7) This section neither grants authority to nor limits the authority of the Department of Transportation. Registration exemptions for golf carts and similar vehicles. (1) Golf carts operated in accordance with an ordinance adopted under ORS 810.070 (Use of golf carts on highways) are exempt from registration requirements under the vehicle code. (2) Golf carts or substantially similar vehicles that are operated by persons with disabilities at not more than 15 mph are exempt from registration requirements under the vehicle code. (3) Notwithstanding any provision of the vehicle code relating to vehicle equipment and condition, upon designation of a portion of a highway becoming effective under an ordinance adopted under ORS 810.070 (Use of golf carts on highways), it shall be lawful to drive golf carts on highways or portions thereof so designated in accordance with the rules and regulations prescribed by the local authority.
PENNSYLVANIA - Golf Cart Operation
A golf car is a “Motor vehicle”, a vehicle which is self-propelled except an electric personal assistive mobility device or a vehicle which is propelled solely by human power. The following types of vehicles are exempt from registration: (1) Any self-propelled golf cart used for the transportation of persons engaged in the game of golf while crossing any public highway during any game of golf. (2) Any vehicle used for golf course or resort maintenance when such vehicle does not travel on public roads in excess of 1 mile and the property on both sides of the public road is owned by said golf course or resort. No person shall drive or move and no owner or motor carrier shall knowingly permit to be driven or moved upon any highway any vehicle which is not registered in this Commonwealth unless the vehicle is exempt from registration. Normally, golf carts are not allowed on public roads because they do not meet safety requirements. However, some towns enact ordinances that permit golf cart use on certain streets. If your municipality allows golf carts on some streets, you apply for a golf cart permit and bring whatever documents they require. Usually, they require Certificate of Title, Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin, bill of sale, or other acceptable documents to establish the chain of ownership.
RHODE ISLAND - Golf Cart Operation
A golf car is a "motor vehicle", every vehicle which is self-propelled or propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails, except vehicles moved exclusively by human power, an EPAMD and electric motorized bicycles as defined in subsection (g) of this section, and motorized wheelchairs. All vehicles in the state of Rhode Island must be properly registered with the Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles in order to be legally used on the roads of Rhode Island.
South Carolina - Golf Carts & Low Speed Electric Vehicles
SOUTH DAKOTA - Golf Cart Operation
For the purposes of the above listed codes , inclusive, the term, "golf cart", means a 4 wheeled vehicle originally, and specifically designed, and intended to transport 1 or more individuals, and golf clubs for the purpose of playing the game of golf on a golf course. Any municipality may adopt, by ordinance, traffic regulations permitting the use of golf carts on a highway under the jurisdiction of the municipality. The ordinance shall require that the golf cart is insured and the person operating the golf cart in the municipality to hold a driver license and to obtain a permit from the municipality. The municipality may charge a fee for the permit. The ordinance may also require the golf cart to display a slow-moving vehicle emblem in accordance with above codes, or a white or amber warning light in accordance with above code. No person may operate a golf cart on a state or county highway except for crossing from 1 side of the highway to the other. A golf cart may cross the highway at a right angle, but only after stopping and yielding the right-of-way to all approaching traffic and crossing as closely as possible to an intersection or approach. The operation of a golf cart on a state or county highway in a manner not permitted by this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor. The term, municipality, means any municipality organized pursuant to Title 9 and any improvement district established by a county pursuant to chapter 7-25A. A county may adopt, by ordinance, regulations to enforce and administer the provisions of above listed codes on behalf of the improvement district.
TENNESSEE - Golf Cart Operation
TEXAS - Golf Cart Operation
UTAH - Golf Cart Operation
Golf cars likely not permitted on public streets unless they qualify as low speed vehicles or “Utility Type Vehicles”. However, "Low-speed vehicle" does not include a golf cart or an off-highway vehicle. A Utility Type Vehicle must be inspected and registered as a Street-legal ATV.
VERMONT - Golf Cart Operation
The operation of a golf cart upon the public roads or streets of this state is prohibited except as provided herein:
A golf car is a motor vehicle. "Motor vehicle" shall include all vehicles propelled or drawn by power other than muscular power, except farm tractors, vehicles running only upon stationary rails or tracks, motorized highway building equipment, road making appliances, snowmobiles, or tracked vehicles or electric personal assistive mobility devices. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle nor draw a trailer or semi-trailer on any highway unless such vehicle is registered as provided in this chapter. The commissioner, for an annual fee of $2.00 and under such conditions as he or she may prescribe, may permit licensed operators to operate motor vehicles not otherwise register-able across a public highway; however, an unlicensed person may so operate a motorized wheelchair or an electric personal assistive mobility device as defined by this title without obtaining a permit. It is likely unless a golf car qualifies as a "Neighborhood electric vehicle", as outlined in above listed code, that it may not be operated on public roads.
VIRGINIA - Golf Cart Operation
"Golf cart" means a self-propelled vehicle that is designed to transport persons playing golf and their equipment on a golf course. A golf car is deemed a motor vehicle and likely is considered a “passenger car” when used on public streets.No person shall be required to obtain the registration certificates, license plates or decals, or to pay any registration fee, for any golf cart or utility vehicle that either (1) is not operated on or over any public highway in the Commonwealth or (2) is operated on or over a public highway as authorized by above listed codes. No person shall operate a golf cart or utility vehicle on or over any public highway in the Commonwealth except as provided in this article. (a) No portion of the public highways may be designated for use by golf carts and utility vehicles unless the governing body of the county, city, or town in which that portion of the highway is located has reviewed and approved such highway usage. (b) The governing body of any county, city or town may by ordinance authorize the operation of golf carts and utility vehicles on designated public highways within its boundaries after (1) considering the speed, volume, and character of motor vehicle traffic using such highways and (2) determining that golf cart and utility vehicle operation on particular highways is compatible with state and local transportation plans and consistent with the Commonwealth's Statewide Pedestrian Policy listed above. (c)Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, no town that has not established its own police department, may authorize the operation of golf carts or utility vehicles. The provision of this subsection shall not apply to the Towns of Claremont, Irvington, Saxis, or Urbanna. (d) No public highway shall be designated for use by golf carts and utility vehicles if such golf cart and utility vehicle operations will impede the safe and efficient flow of motor vehicle traffic.(e) The county, city or town that has authorized the operation of golf carts or utility vehicles shall be responsible for the installation and continuing maintenance of any signs pertaining to the operation of golf carts or utility vehicles. Such county, city or town may include in its ordinance for designating highways the ability to recover its costs of the signs and maintenance pertaining thereto from organizations, individuals or entities requesting the designations. The cost of installation and continuing maintenance of any signs pertaining to the operation of golf carts or utility vehicles shall not be paid by the Virginia Department of Transportation. (f) Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, employees of the Department of Conservation and Recreation may operate golf carts and utility vehicles on those portions of public highways located within Department of Conservation and Recreation property and on Virginia Department of Transportation-maintained highways that are adjacent to Department of Conservation and Recreation property, provided the golf cart or utility vehicle is being operated on highways with speed limits of no more than 35 mph. (a) Golf cart and utility vehicle operations on designated public highways shall be in accordance with the following limitations: (1) A golf cart or utility vehicle may be operated only on designated public highways where the posted speed limit is 25 mph or less. However, a golf cart or utility vehicle may cross a highway at an intersection controlled by a traffic light if the highway has a posted speed limit of no more than 35 mph, and in the Town of Colonial Beach may cross any highway at an intersection marked as a golf cart crossing by signs posted by the Virginia Department of Transportation; (2) In towns with a population of 2,000 or less, a golf cart or utility vehicle may cross a highway at an intersection conspicuously marked as a golf cart crossing by signs posted by the Virginia Department of Transportation if the highway has a posted speed limit of no more than 35 mph, and the crossing is required as the only means to provide golf cart access from one part of the town to another part of the town; (3) No person shall operate any golf cart or utility vehicle on any public highway unless he has in his possession a valid driver's license; (4) Every golf cart or utility vehicle, whenever operated on a public highway, shall display a slow-moving vehicle emblem; and (5) Golf carts and utility vehicles shall be operated upon the public highways only between sunrise and sunset, unless equipped with such lights as are required in above mentioned codes of Chapter 10 for different classes of vehicles. (b) The limitations of subdivision A shall not apply to golf carts and utility vehicles being operated as follows: (1) To cross a highway from 1 portion of a golf course to another portion thereof or to another adjacent golf course or to travel between a person's home and golf course if (i) the trip would not be longer than 1-half mile in either direction and (ii) the speed limit on the road is no more than 35 mph; (2) To the extent necessary for local government employees, operating only upon highways located within the locality, to fulfill a governmental purpose, provided the golf cart or utility vehicle is being operated on highways with speed limits of 35 mph or less; (3) As necessary by employees of public or private 2-year or 4-year institutions of higher education if operating on highways within the property limits of such institutions, provided the golf cart or utility vehicle is being operated on highways with speed limits of 35 mph or less; (4) On a secondary highway system component that has a posted speed limit of no more than 35 mph and is within 3 miles of a motor speedway with a seating capacity of at least 25,000 but less than 90,000 on the same day as any race or race-related event conducted on that speedway; and (5) To the extent necessary for employees of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, operating only on highways located within Department of Conservation and Recreation property or upon Virginia Department of Transportation- maintained highways that are adjacent to Department of Conservation and Recreation property, to fulfill a governmental purpose, provided that the golf cart or utility vehicle is being operated on highways with speed limits of no more than 35 mph.(c)The governing body of any county, city, or town may by ordinance impose additional restrictions or limitations on operations of golf carts, utility vehicles, or both, on public highways within its boundaries, provided that the restrictions or limitations imposed by any such ordinance are no less stringent than the restrictions and limitations contained in this article. In the event that any provision of any such ordinance conflicts with any provision of this section other than subdivision B 5, the provision of the ordinance shall be controlling.
WASHINGTON - Golf Cart Operation
46.04.365, 46.04.1945, 46.20.285 Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
"Golf cart" means a gas-powered or electric-powered 4- wheeled vehicle originally designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting purposes, and has a speed attainable in 1 mile of not more than 20 mph. A golf cart is not a non-highway vehicle or off-road vehicle. A golf cart May be operated incidentally on a street or highway with a speed limit of 25 mph or less WITHIN a golf cart zone that has been created through a city or county ordinance. Each golf cart zone will be clearly identified by signage (in accordance with DOTs manual on uniform traffic control devices for streets and highways) at the beginning and end of the golf cart zone on a street or road that is part of the golf cart zone. In some areas the following requirements/restrictions for operation of a golf cart may also apply; check with your local city or county to determine if this rule applies in your designated golf cart zone: (a) A person is prohibited from operating a golf cart any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise (b) A person is prohibited from operating a golf cart in a designated bicycle lane within a golf cart zone. (c) Decals or other identifying device should be displayed at all times on the golf cart in accordance with the city or county ordinance. Licensing. Not licensable for street use. No Drivers License needed Operator must be at least 16 years of age and must have completed a driver education course or have previous experience driving as a licensed driver. Persons with revoked license under may not operate a golf cart on the public roadway. Equipment Requirements Reflectors Seat belts Rearview Mirrors - Must have a review mirror and may also have mirrors on the drivers side and passengers side of the vehicle (a rearview mirror) that must reflect a distance of at least 200 feet. The following vehicles are not required to be registered under this chapter: . .(5) "Golf carts" as defined in above listed codes, operating within a designated golf cart zone as described: (1) The legislative authority of a city or county may by ordinance or resolution create a golf cart zone, for the purposes of permitting the incidental operation of golf carts, upon a street or highway of this state having a speed limit of 25 mph or less. (2) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section is granted all rights and is subject to all duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle. (3) Every person operating a golf cart as authorized under this section must be at least 16 years of age and must have completed a driver education course or have previous experience driving as a licensed driver. (4) A person who has a revoked license may not operate a golf cart as authorized under this section. (5) The legislative authority of a city or county may prohibit any person from operating a golf cart as authorized under this section at any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise. (6) The legislative authority of a city or county may require a decal or other identifying device to be displayed on golf carts authorized on the streets and highways of this state under this section. The city or county may charge a fee for the decal or other identifying device. (7) The legislative authority of a city or county may prohibit the operation of golf carts in designated bicycle lanes that are within a golf cart zone. (8) Golf carts must be equipped with reflectors, seat belts, and rearview mirrors when operated upon streets and highways as authorized under this section. (9) A city or county that creates a golf cart zone under this section must clearly identify the zone by placing signage at the beginning and end of the golf cart zone on a street or road that is part of the golf cart zone. The signage must be in compliance with the department of transportation's manual on uniform traffic control devices for streets and highways. (10) Accidents that involve golf carts operated upon streets and highways as authorized under this section must be recorded and tracked in compliance with chapter 46.52 RCW. The accident report must indicate that a golf cart operating within a golf cart zone is involved in the accident.
WEST VIRGINIA - Golf Cart Operation
Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
Golf cars not authorized by state statute for public road use. Further, the MV division may not title or register homemade low-speed vehicles or retrofitted golf carts and such vehicles do not qualify as low-speed vehicles in this state. However, presumably, pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Home Rule Amendment to the constitution of this state or its charter, a municipality may adopt rules for allowing golf cars on public streets within its jurisdiction.
WISCONSIN- Golf Cart Operation
349.18 Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
“Golf cart” means a vehicle in which the speed attainable in one mile does not exceed 20 mph on a paved, level surface, and that is designed and intended to convey 1 or more persons and equipment to play the game of golf in an area designated as a golf course. A vehicle, even though operated upon a highway of this state, is exempt from registration if any of the following applies: . . . (24) The vehicle is a golf cart being operated in accordance with above listed code. (1) Any city, village or town, by ordinance, may: . . .(b) Establish a golf cart crossing point upon a highway within its limits. An ordinance enacted under this paragraph shall require that a golf cart stop and yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching on the highway before crossing the highway. The ordinance may require that a golf cart be equipped with reflective devices as specified in the ordinance. The city, village or town shall place a sign of a type approved by the department to mark the crossing point on both sides of the highway. (c) Regulate the operation of a golf cart to and from a golf course for a distance not to exceed one mile upon a highway under its exclusive jurisdiction. The city, village or town shall place a sign of a type approved by the department to mark any golf cart travel route designated by the ordinance.
WYOMING- Golf Cart Operation
31-5- 102, 314.802 Operation of golf carts on certain roadways.
The operation of a golf cart upon the public roads or streets of this state is prohibited except as provided herein:
"Golf cart" means a motor vehicle which: (a) Has not less than 3 wheels in contact with the ground; (b) Has an unladen weight of less than 1,300 pounds; (c) Is designed to be or is operated at not more than 15 mph; (d) Is designed to carry golf equipment and not more than 4 persons including the driver; and (e) Is being used to transport an occupant directly to, or from or on a golf course, or is being used for special events or circumstances authorized by the city, town or county. "Multipurpose vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is designed to travel on at least 4 wheels in contact with the ground, has an unladen weight of at least 300 pounds but less than 3,000 pounds, has a permanent upright seat or saddle for the driver which is mounted at least 24 inches from the ground and has an identifying number. "Multipurpose vehicle" includes off-road recreational vehicles, electric powered vehicles, golf carts when being used other than as provided in above listed codes, is being used other than to transport an occupant directly to, or from or on a golf course, or is being used for special events or circumstances authorized by the city, town or county, and any motor vehicle meeting the criteria of this sub-paragraph and not otherwise defined in this section.
If a person is operating a golf cart solely to and from a golf course pursuant to above codes, they are not required to have a Drivers’ License. However, if the golf cart is registered as an MPV, the driver will have to have a valid Drivers’ License even if operating it to and from a golf course. It is known one or more municipalities in Wyoming permit the use of golf cars on their public streets.