How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Golf Cart?
Golf carts are pulled by a motor that runs on a battery and is driven like a car. A lot of people are discovering that golf is a great way to relieve stress, get out and be social and enjoy some time in the great outdoors. You can use golf carts to get around the course, but how old do you have to be to drive a golf cart? Knowing the best age for a golf cart will help to ensure that you have someone to drive the cart then.
Whenever a new golf course is being built, the Metropolitan Golf Association requires that golf cart drivers be at least 16 years of age with a valid driver’s license to operate them. Various laws apply in different states.
How Old To Drive a Golf Cart?
Golf carts are a fun way to get around the golf course, but they’re also legal vehicles that you can drive on public roads in some states. Golf cart laws vary by state, so check with your local DMV before you hit the road.
It is the law in most states that golf carts must be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In some states, golf carts may be licensed as mopeds or motorcycles. Your local DMV can provide you with specific requirements.
In most cases, if you want to operate a golf cart on public roads, you’ll need to get an endorsement on your driver’s license to show that you’re qualified. If there are no age restrictions for operating a golf cart on public roads in your state, you may be able to get an endorsement after passing a written test at the DMV. Some states require drivers over 18 to pass an additional driving test before receiving their endorsement.
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At What Age Can Kid Drive A Golf Cart?
Each state has a different minimum driving age for golf carts. A learner’s permit or driver’s license is required to drive a golf cart at 16, according to state law.
The following overview of each state’s minimum driving age requirements:
Alabama: Golf carts can only be driven on private property by people over the age of 18. If you are at least 15 years old and have completed driver’s education, you may drive a golf cart on public roads if no speed limit is posted.
Alaska: There is 16 years old is the minimum age to operate a golf cart; also, you must have an operator’s license or learner’s permit. You must also wear eye protection while operating your vehicle.
Arizona: Golf carts can be driven by people who are at least 14 years old. If you are required to take a road test, you must take an approved driver’s education course first. If you are under 18 years old and want to drive on public roads, you must wear protective headgear and eye protection (unless equipped with a windshield). The maximum speed for golf carts is 25 mph.
Arkansas: The minimum age for an operator’s license is 14 years old. You may not operate a golf cart unless you are accompanied by your parent or guardian who holds a valid driver’s license issued by this state or another state or country. Golf carts may not be driven on public thoroughfares more than two abreast and must have headlights turned on at all times when driving between sunset and sunrise.
California: 13 years of age is the minimum driving age for golf carts. However, children under 18 cannot operate golf carts on public streets or highways unless accompanied by an adult. According to California law, a golf cart is a motor vehicle with three wheels that is designed to operate on a golf course for sport or recreational purposes; has no other body parts protruding above the top of the body; has at least one seat designed for use by an occupant while operating the vehicle.”
Colorado: At least 14 years of age is required to drive a golf cart. A driver education course (if required) must be taken before you can take your road test. If you are under 18 years old and want to drive on public roads, you must wear protective headgear and eye protection.
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Massachusetts: In Massachusetts, you must be 16 years old to drive a golf cart. Massachusetts law states that anyone under 18 must have a safety certificate to operate a vehicle on public property.
New York: New York sets the minimum age at 14 years old with parental permission and supervision. Getting your permits and license will require a state-approved driver’s education course if you’re under 16.
Special Requirements for Golf Carts
In order for a golf cart to be driven on public roads, it must meet all safety standards that apply to motor vehicles. In addition, it must have seatbelts, turn signals, and brake lights. You also need to make sure the vehicle is equipped with headlights during the day and taillights at night.
If the golf cart is equipped with a radio or other sound system, it must be turned off while driving on public roads. You also can’t use cell phones or electronic devices while driving unless they are hands-free. If your state has laws that apply to motor vehicles, you should also follow them when operating your golf cart.
How Old Do You Have to be to Drive a Golf Cart on Private Property?
Golf carts are a popular transportation choice for people who live in golf course communities. They’re easy to drive, safe, and environmentally friendly. There are some restrictions on the use of golf carts, however, so you should be aware of them before you purchase one.
If you live in a private community and want to buy or rent a golf cart, check with the association rules before purchasing or renting one. Some associations require that drivers be at least 16 years old, while others require that they be 18 years old or older. Others may only allow adults to drive the carts while children ride as passengers only.
Can You Drive a Golf Cart With a Permit?
Despite its complexity, it is possible. First, you need to be 18 years old and have your driver’s license, which means you can drive on the street. However, driving a golf cart on public roads is against the law in most states.
A golf cart can only be driven on private property where there is an exemption from state laws prohibiting golf carts from the roadways. In many states, this includes private courses and other private property where golf carts are allowed by law to be driven on public roads.
In order to determine if you are allowed to drive a golf cart on public streets or highways legally, you should check with your local DMV or state police.
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Final Words
Hopefully, this post has provided some guidance on how old do you have to be to drive a golf cart. We realize that this is a broad topic, but we did our best to bring clarity to the situation. In the end, we can only recommend that you check with local authorities to confirm what the situation is in your area. And don’t be afraid to speak to your parents if you lack other resources: talking it out might be your best option.
FAQs
Do you need a license to drive a golf cart around?
The operation of a vehicle is subject to license requirements in some states. Depending on the laws in your area, this may be a regular driver’s license or something different. If you have any questions about whether or not you need to take a golf cart driving test before getting behind the wheel, it’s best to check with local authorities before proceeding.
Are golf carts street-legal?
As a general rule, it depends. The only way to know for sure is to check the laws in your area, which might mean getting a copy of the local statutes from your town hall or county courthouse. If you want to drive on the road, there are certain restrictions you’ll have to follow (such as speed limits and safety equipment).
How fast can a golf cart go?
Golf carts vary in speed depending on the model and age of the vehicle, but most can reach speeds of up to 25 mph on flat ground if all systems are functioning properly and up to 20 mph uphill or downhill.
What is the fastest street-legal golf cart?
Lightning GT golf carts are the fastest street-legal golf carts, reaching speeds of up to 25 mph.