Definition

A golf cart, as defined in the Florida Statutes in section 316.003, is "a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes."

What is Prohibited

It is against the law in the Florida to operate a golf cart on a public street or road.

Exceptions

You may operate a golf cart on a public roadway if:

• The road has previously been designated by the state or municipality for their use
• It is required for crossing a path when a golf course is located on both sides of a road
• It is the best/ only available public road to a government location
• Crossing the roadway when a mobile home park resides on both sides of a public roadway
• You are within a private community and golf carts are permitted

Required Features

To legally operate a golf cart on state/public roadway, a golf cart/ Low Speed Vehicle must have the follow:

• Red Reflector Warning Devices in the Front and Rear
• A Reliable Steering System
• Must Have Efficient Brakes
• A Rear-View Window if A Golf Car Enclosure is Present
• Must Have Reliable/ Safe Tires

Driving Time & Age Restrictions

• A person must be at least 14 years of age to operate a golf cart on a roadway in Florida
• A person may only be on a state/ public roadway between sunrise and sunset

Consequences

Violations to the regulations set forth in the Florida statutes for golf carts are a non-criminal traffic violation, punishable as a moving violation.

Resources - "Florida Senate: 2005: Senate Bill 1820"