Introduction
Golf carts are a great way to get around in Florida. Whether you’re running errands or just cruising around with friends, golf carts provide a fun and convenient way to get around. But before you hit the road, it’s important to make sure your golf cart is street legal. In this article, we’ll explore the laws and regulations governing street legal golf carts in Florida, as well as the benefits of owning one.
How to Make Your Golf Cart Street Legal in Florida
Making your golf cart street legal in Florida requires some additional equipment and paperwork. Here’s what you need to know:
Required Equipment
In order for your golf cart to be street legal in Florida, it must have certain safety features, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, rearview mirror, windshield, seatbelts, an emergency brake, and a slow-moving vehicle emblem. It must also have a top speed of at least 20 mph and a maximum speed of 25 mph.
Registration Process
Once your golf cart is equipped with all the required safety features, you will need to register it with the state of Florida. You can do this online or in person at your local DMV office. You will need to provide proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or title) and proof of insurance. Once your registration is complete, you will receive a license plate and a street legal decal.
Insurance Requirements
In order to drive your golf cart on public roads in Florida, you must carry liability insurance. This will cover any damages or injuries you may cause while driving your golf cart. You may also want to consider purchasing comprehensive coverage, which will cover any damage or theft that may occur to your golf cart.
Safety Tips for Driving a Street Legal Golf Cart in Florida
Although golf carts are smaller and slower than traditional cars, they still must abide by the same traffic laws. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when driving your golf cart in Florida:
Speed Limits
The maximum speed limit for a street legal golf cart in Florida is 25 mph. Be sure to obey all posted speed limits and be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to other drivers and use extra caution when crossing intersections.
Traffic Rules
Golf carts must obey all the normal rules of the road, including stopping at stop signs and red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and signaling when turning. Remember that golf carts are considered vehicles, so you must follow all applicable traffic laws.
Passenger Restrictions
In Florida, a street legal golf cart can only carry up to four passengers at one time. All passengers must be seated and wearing seat belts at all times. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Popular Places to Take Your Street Legal Golf Cart in Florida
Now that your golf cart is street legal, where can you take it? Here are some popular places to cruise around in your golf cart:
Parks
Florida is home to some beautiful parks and natural areas. Many of these parks allow street legal golf carts, so you can explore the trails and scenery without worrying about getting stuck in traffic. Just be sure to check with the park before you go to make sure golf carts are allowed.
Golf Courses
If you’re a golf enthusiast, a street legal golf cart is a great way to get around the course. Many courses in Florida allow street legal golf carts, so you won’t have to worry about walking long distances between holes.
Shopping Centers
Many shopping centers in Florida allow street legal golf carts. This is a great way to get around if you’re running errands or just want to get from store to store without having to walk. Just remember to obey all traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings.
The Cost of Insuring a Street Legal Golf Cart in Florida
Insuring your golf cart is an important part of keeping it street legal. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of insuring a street legal golf cart in Florida:
Coverage Types
When it comes to insuring your golf cart, you have two options: liability or comprehensive coverage. Liability coverage will cover any damages or injuries you may cause while driving your golf cart. Comprehensive coverage will cover any damage or theft that may occur to your golf cart. Both types of coverage are available from most major insurance companies.
Average Premiums
The average premium for liability coverage for a street legal golf cart in Florida is around $200 per year. The average premium for comprehensive coverage is around $400 per year. Of course, your actual premiums will depend on factors such as the type of golf cart you own, your driving record, and the amount of coverage you choose.
Common Questions and Answers about Street Legal Golf Carts in Florida
Here are some common questions and answers about street legal golf carts in Florida:
What is the Difference Between a Street Legal and Non-Street Legal Golf Cart?
The main difference between a street legal and non-street legal golf cart is the presence of safety features. Street legal golf carts must be equipped with headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, rearview mirror, windshield, seatbelts, an emergency brake, and a slow-moving vehicle emblem. They must also have a top speed of at least 20 mph and a maximum speed of 25 mph.
Are There Any Special Rules for Driving a Street Legal Golf Cart in Florida?
Yes. Street legal golf carts in Florida must obey all the normal rules of the road, including stopping at stop signs and red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and signaling when turning. They must also adhere to the maximum speed limit of 25 mph and can only carry up to four passengers at one time.
Is it Legal to Drive a Street Legal Golf Cart on the Freeway?
No. Street legal golf carts are not allowed on freeways in Florida. They are only allowed on roads with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph or less.
Conclusion
Golf carts are a great way to get around in Florida. However, it’s important to make sure your golf cart is street legal before hitting the road. This article has provided an overview of the laws and regulations governing street legal golf carts in Florida, as well as safety tips, places to take your cart and insurance costs.
