What is The Difference Between a Low Speed VEHICLE (LSV) and Golf Cart?

Golf Carts vs. Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs): DMV & Legal Guide

1. Definitions

Golf Cart

A golf cart is a small motorized vehicle originally designed to transport golfers and equipment on a golf course. Most golf carts:

  • Have a top speed of 15–20 mph

  • Are not manufactured to federal motor vehicle safety standards

  • Are generally considered off-road or recreational vehicles

Because of this, golf carts are typically not recognized as motor vehicles by state DMVs unless specifically allowed by local law.

Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV)

A Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) is a federally recognized vehicle class defined under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 500. LSVs:

  • Have a top speed between 20–25 mph

  • Weigh less than 3,000 lbs

  • Are legally considered motor vehicles

LSVs are designed for on-road use where permitted and must meet minimum safety requirements.

2. Key Differences

Feature Golf Cart Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV)
Intended road use No Yes (where allowed)
Top speed ~15–20 mph 20–25 mph
Federal vehicle classification No Yes (FMVSS 500)
VIN required Usually no Yes
Registration & title Rarely Required
Driver’s license Varies Required
Safety equipment Minimal Required by law

3. Typical Uses

Golf Carts

Golf carts are primarily used for:

  • Golf courses

  • Private property

  • Gated communities

  • Campgrounds and resorts

  • Large residential or commercial properties

Use on public roads is only allowed where local or state laws specifically permit it.

Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)

LSVs are commonly used for:

  • Neighborhood transportation

  • Planned communities

  • Retirement communities

  • Business parks and campuses

  • Short local trips on approved public roads

LSVs are generally limited to roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less, depending on state law.

4. Laws & Regulations: Federal, State, and Local

Federal Regulations

  • LSVs are defined at the federal level and must meet specific safety standards.

  • Golf carts are not federally regulated for street use.

State Laws

State laws determine:

  • Whether golf carts may operate on public roads

  • How LSVs are registered, insured, and driven

  • Minimum driver age and licensing requirements

Examples:

  • Some states allow golf carts on certain roads by permit

  • Most states allow LSVs on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower

  • Registration, insurance, and licensing rules vary by state

County & City Ordinances

Local governments often add additional rules, such as:

  • Designated streets or zones for golf carts

  • Time-of-day restrictions

  • Required safety equipment

  • Local permits or decals

This means legality can change from one city or county to the next, even within the same state.

5. What to Check Before Operating

Before operating a golf cart or LSV on public roads, always verify:

  1. State DMV regulations

  2. City or county ordinances

  3. Required safety equipment

  4. Registration, insurance, and licensing requirements

  5. Approved roads and speed limits

Local law enforcement and DMV offices are the best sources for current rules.

 

CALIFORNIA LAWS FOR GOLF CARTS AND LSVS