3 Keys for Golf Cars in the Gardens

1. Know the Facts

No City streets are designated as golf cart roadways.

Reminder: Even if registered, a golf car is not allowed on the roadway or sidewalk.

Statute Violation 316.212 Moving Violation

2. Know the Laws

Traffic laws apply to street-legal golf carts and lowspeed vehicles (LSVs) and are only allowed on roads with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph or below. They are not considered street-legal for roads with speed limits exceeding 35 mph and are prohibited from driving on sidewalks. Statute 316.1995: Moving Violation.

3. Know the Specs

LSVs, including modified golf carts, are regulated by Statute 316.2122. They are treated like regular vehicles and must be equipped with the following:

• Seatbelts

• Tags

• Turn signals

• Parking brake

• Headlights

• Taillights

• Cannot Exceed 25 mph

*Important Note for Parents - Drivers under 18 must be at least 15 years old with a learner's permit (learners permit rules apply) or 16 with a valid driver's license. In addition, anyone 18 or older must carry a valid government-issued photo ID to operate a golf cart. If someone permits an unlicensed driver, such as a child, to operate a registered vehicle (including a Low-Speed Vehicle), it violates Statute 322.36: Permitting Unauthorized Operator to Drive.

For a detailed review of these statutes, click here to visit the official Florida Legislature’s webpage under TITLE XXIII Motor Vehicles.