A new golf cart law went into effect in South Carolina on May 22.
The law applies to golf carts driving on a public highway where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. The law also allows local municipalities and counties to set their own rules and regulations regarding golf carts.
Here is what you need to know:
Key Requirements for public highways:
Permit and Registration
- Must obtain permit decal and registration from DMV
- Requires proof of ownership and liability insurance
- $5 fee
- Permit renewal every 5 years or upon address change
Operator Requirements
- Minimum age: 16 years
- Valid driver's license required
- Must carry: registration certificate, proof of insurance, driver's license
Safety Requirements
- Children under 12 must wear safety belts
- For night operation (if permitted): working headlights and taillights required
Local municipalities and counties can:
- Can regulate hours, methods, and locations via ordinance
- May permit nighttime operation if cart has working lights
- Can designate separate golf cart paths
- Cannot require proof of property ownership/rental for operation
- All operations limited to roads with speed limit ≤35 mph
In the absence of a local or county ordinance, a permitted golf cart may:
- Daytime operation only
- Secondary highways only (≤35 mph)
- Within 4 miles of registered address or gated community entrance
- May cross highways with higher speed limits at intersections
Golf Cart Path Requirements:
Must be separated from traffic by either:
- Hard concrete curb
- Parking spaces
- Minimum 4-foot distance