What you need to know about street legal golf cars
Aug
03,
2023
The requirements to make a golf car street-legal can vary depending on the state or local regulations where you intend to operate the vehicle. However, some common requirements often include:
- Vehicle Registration: You will need to register your golf car with the appropriate motor vehicle agency in your state or locality. This typically involves providing proof of ownership, identification, and payment of registration fees.
- Insurance: Some areas may require liability insurance for street-legal golf carts. Check with your local authorities to determine if this is necessary.
- Safety Equipment: Street-legal golf cars often need to be equipped with specific safety features, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and reflectors.
- Windshield and Mirrors: A windshield and rearview mirrors are usually required for street-legal golf cars.
- Seat Belts: Depending on the jurisdiction, seat belts may be mandatory for street-legal golf cars.
- Speed Limit: There may be restrictions on the maximum speed of the golf car to make it street-legal. Some areas may require speed governors or limiters.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Some states may require the installation of a unique VIN on the golf car for identification purposes.
- Horn: A functioning horn might be necessary for street-legal use.
- Turn Signals: If not included in the safety equipment, turn signals may be required for making turns on public roads.
- Rearview Mirror: In addition to side mirrors, a rearview mirror is commonly required.
- Licensed Driver: The operator of the street-legal golf car may need to possess a valid driver’s license.
- Road Use Restrictions: There may be limitations on the types of roads where street-legal golf cars can operate, such as speed limits and restrictions on high-speed roads or highways.
Always consult your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) like the DOT of NC or relevant authorities to determine the specific requirements and regulations for making a golf car street-legal in your area. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to ensure the safe and legal operation of the vehicle on public roads. For more information contact Golf Cars of Coastal Carolinas.