Golf carts are essential on the green, but they can also be useful when you’re navigating nearby roads. To take advantage of them in this capacity, you need to be certain that you have a street legal golf cart. This refers to a cart that’s been properly modified to meet a specific set of standards and criteria that deem it safe to operate on public roads. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Makes a Golf Cart Street Legal?

To ensure the vehicle is legal for on-street operation, it must be equipped with headlights and taillights. It should also feature turn signals and a horn. Like automobiles, street legal golf carts also need certain safety features, including a windshield, mirrors on the sides, and seat belts. 

Because the cart operates at speeds between 20 and 25 miles per hour, a low-speed vehicle (LSV) sign must also be attached. If you are looking for additional power a mid-speed vehicle (MSV) may be best for you which reaches speeds between 25-35 miles per hour. Additionally, shopping at a local dealer is essential to ensure you're following all specific municipal requirements. Once your low-speed vehicle is registered you can then transport it to other states without further restrictions.

What Are the Benefits of This?

The beauty of a street legal golf cart is that you can comfortably maneuver from one neighborhood road to the next at a relaxed pace. These vehicles are compact, so they operate more efficiently by consuming less fuel and put less strain on the environment. There’s also less concern about extensive maintenance and repairs compared to traditional cars.

What Do State Laws Dictate? 

Tennessee law states that golf carts may be titled and registered for street use only if they’ve been strictly modified to meet road-safe requirements. Once the vehicle has the proper modifications, operators must then submit a low-speed affidavit application with their registration form. With the proper documentation, your application will be eligible for approval. 

If you want to take your golf cart purchase to the next level, turn to The Custom Golf Cart Guy in Hixson, TN. David Hill, a member of the Australian PGA®, has extensive experience working with carts. He’ll customize yours to ensure it meets the standards of street legal golf carts and your own design needs. Visit the website to find out more about the company or call (423) 645-4663 to speak with a representative.