BY: Sheriff Rick Wells
Are you aware of the difference between a golf cart and a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV)? They may look similar, but there are important differences when it comes to how, where and who can legally operate them.
I get questions about this all the time because the rules can be confusing. So many of our residents enjoy using golf carts and LSVs, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely and legally. Let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart.
Golf Carts
Golf carts are designed and manufactured for operation on golf courses and are not capable of exceeding 20 mph.
In Florida, golf carts may be operated on roadways specifically designated for golf-cart use where the posted speed limit is 30 mph or less.
There are also age and identification requirements:
Drivers under 18 who operate a golf cart on public roads or streets must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license.
Drivers 18 or older must possess a valid government-issued photo ID.
Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)
An LSV is a four-wheeled vehicle with a top speed greater than 20 mph, but no more than 25 mph.
Unlike golf carts, LSVs must be titled, registered and insured. They must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance, and the operator must have a valid driver’s license in their immediate possession.
LSVs may only be operated on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less.
LSVs must also be equipped with required safety features, including:
- Headlamps
- Turn signals
- Stop lamps and tail lamps
- A vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Required mirrors
- Reflectors
- A parking brake
- A windshield
- Seat belts for each designated seating position
The bottom line is simple: Just because a vehicle looks like a golf cart doesn’t mean it is legally considered a golf cart. Knowing the difference can help you avoid a traffic violation and, more importantly, help keep you, your passengers and everyone else on the road safe.
If you have questions about Florida’s requirements for golf carts or LSVs, I encourage you to visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles at FLHSMV.gov for more information.
