How Do South Carolina Traffic Laws Apply to Golf Carts?

Golf carts are little vehicles, and we understand if you think of them as oversized toys instead of undersized cars.

However, it’s important to note that the law enforcement community considers golf carts the same as cars, and expects you to drive accordingly. To ensure you’re following South Carolina’s traffic rules and regulations for golf carts, be sure to read the information below. 

Golf Cart Rules of the Road

Here are the specific guidelines from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, in their own words: 

• The golf cart must be insured, permitted, and registered with SCDMV using the following link: http://scdmvonline.com/Vehicle-Owners/Types-Of-Vehicles/Golf-Cart
• The golf cart must remain within 4 miles of your home, where it is legal to drive.
• The golf cart may be operated on roads with posted speeds of 35 mph or less.
• The golf cart may be operated during daylight hours only.
• The driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.

Potential Golf Cart Violations 

As a golf cart driver, you are required to follow all of the same laws of the road that apply to motor vehicles. This means that being caught driving under the influence will entail financial and potentially criminal penalties. 

Also, drivers must be 16 with a license, so don’t let your minor children drive, not even on private roads. You may face a fine in excess of $200. 

The bottom line is that golf cart drivers need to take the same level of responsibility with golf carts as they do with cars. Since these rules are designed to keep all of us safe, they seem like a good idea anyway! 

Looking for a golf cart to help you run errands around the neighborhood? Then stop by Quality Golf Carts here in Rock Hill, SC to browse a collection of top-of-the-line models for sale. We also proudly serve the nearby city of Charlotte, NC, and look forward to helping you find the perfect golf cart for your needs.