Thinking about cruising California in a golf cart? You might be wondering about California golf cart laws and licensing. The answer isn’t simple. This post clarifies California’s golf cart regulations and licensing requirements.
Do you need a license to drive a golf cart in California on private property? Likely not. Places like golf courses, gated communities, or your backyard have their own rules.
Table Of Contents:
Do You Need a License to Drive a Golf Cart in California on Public Roads?
Driving your golf cart on public California roads is where things get tricky. Rules depend on the type of road.
Navigating Public Roads With Electric Golf Carts
According to the California DMV, a “golf cart” is for golf, holds two people, and travels under 15 mph. A low-speed vehicle (LSV), or neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV), can go up to 25 mph.
CVC 385.5 classifies golf carts used on public roads as LSVs. These are subject to specific traffic laws and local ordinances.
Here’s a table summarizing the differences:
| Feature | Golf Cart | LSV/NEV |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 15 mph | 25 mph |
| Passengers | 2 | Varies |
| License Needed on Private Property? | No | No |
| License Needed on Public Roads? | Yes, if classified as an LSV | Yes |
Understanding Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)
To make your electric golf cart street-legal in California, meet LSV standards. This includes adding headlights, taillights, turn signals, windshields, seat belts, and a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). LSVs need registration, insurance, and a licensed driver.
If your electric golf cart gets modified and now goes faster than 20 mph, be sure to consult legal experts for any specific local regulations regarding street-legal golf carts.
California Golf Cart Laws: Where Can You Drive?
California law (CVC 21716) generally prohibits golf carts on highways. However, carts are permitted on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less. This makes it possible to drive golf carts under certain conditions.
Local authorities can establish a crossing zone between neighborhoods and an adjacent golf course. This would allow golf carts to cross a road or highway without the need for licensing or registration (CVC 21115). However, if any golf cart or LSV has to cross the road during the night there have to be sufficient signs, markers, and lighting that are prescribed by the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the area (CVC 21115.1).
Modifying your golf cart to exceed 20 mph means it’s no longer legally a golf cart (CVC 345), even if it’s under the 25 mph LSV limit. You’ll need a driver’s license, registration, and insurance for street-legal golf carts. Contact your local authorities about driving electric golf carts.
Some California cities have golf cart-friendly policies. Lincoln and Rocklin, in Placer County, promote golf carts and LSVs for short trips. Golf cart rentals may have different regulations so ensure compliance before operating golf cart rentals.
Always check with your local California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for golf cart regulations. Additionally, contact local authorities to clarify specific laws street legal carts are subject to.
This post is for general informational purposes. It’s wise to check your local California DMV’s resources for applicable laws related to golf carts or other compact vehicles.
Conclusion
So, do you need a license to drive a golf cart in California? It depends on several factors including street legal golf carts requirements and local ordinances. If using a golf cart rental for your trip, ensure the cart rental meets public road requirements.
On private property, a license is usually unnecessary. On public roads, a driver’s license is required, especially if the golf cart is classified as an LSV. Remember to inquire with local authorities about where you can drive golf carts.
