Are Golf Carts Street-Legal in North Carolina?
Plenty of carts you see around the lake are street-legal, and plenty are not. Here is what actually makes a cart legal to drive on public roads in North Carolina.
Golf cart vs. LSV
A standard golf cart is built for the course and private property. A Low Speed Vehicle, or LSV, is a cart that has been upgraded and titled so it can legally travel on many public streets. The difference is equipment and paperwork, not just speed.
What an LSV needs
- Headlights, tail lights, and brake lights
- Turn signals, reflectors, and a horn
- A windshield and rearview mirrors
- Seat belts for every seat
- A 17-digit VIN and a speedometer
- A top speed between 20 and 25 mph
Where you can drive it
In North Carolina an LSV can generally be driven on roads posted at 35 mph or less. It cannot travel along higher speed highways, only cross them directly. Many towns add their own local rules on top of that, so always check your town ordinance before you ride.
Titling and insurance
An LSV must be titled and registered with the NC DMV, and you need liability insurance just like a car. You also need a valid driver license to operate one on public roads.
The easy way
We build street-legal LSV carts that meet the state equipment list and help you get the paperwork in order. Ask us about your specific neighborhood and we will tell you honestly what is allowed where you live.
Ready to find your cart?
Tell us how you ride and we will send an honest out-the-door price.