I n f o r m a t i o n o n H o w t o S a f e l y O p e r a t e Yo u r

G o l f C a r t i n F l o r i d a

Golf carts can provide access to community features including recreation, medical, education, and shopping facilities. However, to prevent serious injuries, it is important to learn how to safely operate your

golf cart within designated golf cart communities.

To safely operate your golf cart on designated roads, it must have:

• Properly operating wheel brakes

• Rearview mirror• Properly operating steering

wheel• Warning devices on both the

front and back made of red reflective material that meets state standards

• Properly inflated tires with good tread

Golf Carts

Funded by theFlorida Department of Transportation

www.SafeandMobileSeniors.org

www.SafeandMobileSeniors.org/Vehicle

Is there an age requirement to drive a golf cart? You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a golf cart.

What type of insurance do I need for my golf cart? You should check with your insurance agent to determine what type of insurance is needed.

Do I need a driver license to drive a golf cart? No. However, the same vision requirements needed for safe driving are also necessary to safely operate a golf cart.

What time of day is it safe for me to drive my golf cart? Only between sunrise and sunset. If a local community determines a golf cart may be operated outside those hours, your golf cart must be equipped with:

Florida law requires that operating a golf cart on public roads is only allowed when a road has been

officially designated for golf cart use by the local government. A city or county commission must determine in advance whether golf carts may safely travel or cross the road and take into consideration:

• speed, • traffic volume, and • type of traffic (cars, bicycles,

pedestrians) that use the road.

If determined that golf carts may safely operate within their community, the local government will issue an ordinance, and install signs to show that golf carts are allowed to share the roadway.

Can I cross a U.S., State, or County road in my golf cart? Golf cart operators may not cross any U.S., State, or County numbered road unless the agency that has jurisdiction over the road has approved the crossing and properly signed and marked the crossing location or installed a bridge for that purpose.

Can I drive my golf cart on sidewalks or trails? Golf carts are not allowed to operate on sidewalks or bike trails, unless properly signed and permitted.

“A golf cart is defined as a vehicle designed and made only for use on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and not capable of speeds over 20 miles per hour.” Section 316.212, Florida Statutes

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Safely Operating Golf Carts in Florida

Golf carts are a popular way to get around, particularly in retirement

communities. However, they are not recognized as on-road vehicles. Golf carts can not travel at high speeds, but can still

pose potential risks for serious injuries when they come in contact with cars.

• Headlights • Turn signals

• Brake lights • Windshield

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