California Golf Cart Insurance (2026)

California requires insurance for all registered motor vehicles, including golf carts registered as low-speed vehicles (LSVs) or neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs). While California's minimum liability requirements of 30/60/15 were recently increased (effective 2025), the actual cost of insurance tends to be higher due to the state's high population density, traffic volume, and repair costs.

Golf carts and NEVs are particularly popular in California communities such as Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and various coastal towns. California was one of the first states to create specific legislation for neighborhood electric vehicles, and the California DMV has a streamlined registration process for LSVs. Once registered, the vehicle must be insured before it can legally operate on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or below.

California law also requires that proof of insurance be carried in the vehicle at all times. Driving an uninsured LSV can result in fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment, just as with any other uninsured motor vehicle.

• Low Minimums, High Costs: California's minimums were increased to 30/60/15 in 2025 (from 15/30/5), the first increase since 1967. Experts still recommend carrying higher limits for adequate protection.
• Palm Springs Area: The Coachella Valley (Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells) is one of the largest golf cart markets in California with dedicated cart lanes and crossings.
• NEV Legislation Pioneer: California was among the first states to pass NEV-specific laws, making registration and insurance processes well-established.
• Proof of Insurance Required: California requires you to carry proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times; electronic proof on a smartphone is accepted.
• Penalties for No Insurance: Driving without insurance in California can result in fines of $100-$200 for a first offense, plus a $500 penalty, and possible vehicle impoundment.