How To Make A Golf Cart Street Legal

Making your golf cart street legal is more than possible. With the right equipment and know-how, it is downright easy. This article from Under The Sun Golf Carts will take you through every step on the road to making your golf cart street legal.

1. Install The Right Lights

Lights are important for street legal vehicles. Not only do they allow the driver to see in low-light conditions, they allow other motorists to see the vehicle sooner, dramatically reducing the chances that an accident will occur. For a golf cart to be street legal, it needs headlights, turn signals, and brake lights. You should also have reflectors in order to increase your visibility to others on the road. 

Although LED lights are more expensive than normal bulbs, they also last longer and shine brighter. We highly recommend installing them in your golf cart. 

2. Add A License Plate

Another step in making your golf cart street legal is registering with the DMV. They will give you a license plate when you register. Mount the plate on your bumper so that it is easily seen. 

3. Install Seat Belts

Seat belts are just important in golf carts as they are in normal cars. If your model was not originally designed to be street legal, it may not have them, so be sure to install enough seat belts for the driver and all passengers. 

4. Add A Windshield

Windshields help protect against debris kicked up by other vehicles on the road. Invest in a shatter-resistant windshield for your golf cart. Both clear and tinted windshields have their advantages, so do some research to figure out which is right for you.

5. Add Mirrors

Mirrors are vital for safely operating a golf cart on the street, so be sure you have both side mirrors and a rearview mirror. They should be tightly fastened and afford a clear view to the driver, so adjust them as needed. 

6. Install A Speedometer

Not all cart models have a speedometer, so if yours does not, you should install one. Without it, it is nearly impossible to know if you are properly following posted speed limits. 

7. Add A Parking Brake

Much like a speedometer, not all carts are designed with a parking brake. If your model needs one, add it as soon as possible.

8. Consider A Slow Moving Vehicle Sign

Depending upon local ordinances, you may be required to install a "Slow Moving Vehicle" sign on your golf cart. Even if your local area does not require it, consider adding one anyway, as it is a helpful safety feature.

9. Look Into State Laws

Local and state laws vary on what makes a golf cart street legal. You should read up on these laws before taking your cart out on the road. Typically, you need to be a licensed driver of at least 16 years of age who has liability insurance and a VIN for the cart. Of course, more or fewer requirements may be involved depending on local laws, so do your research. The cart itself will usually need to be capable of reaching at least 20 to 25 miles per hour. Even then, a golf cart cannot be driven on a road with speed limits exceeding 35 mph. 

We here at Under The Sun Golf Carts hope you found this guide to be helpful. If you have any questions or want to view golf cart models in person, visit us at our dealerships in Bracey, Virginia, and Youngsville, North Carolina. We welcome guests from South Hill and Wake Forest.