North Carolina Golf Cart Insurance (2026)
Golf cart insurance requirements in North Carolina, including $50,000/$100,000/$50,000 minimum liability and $100–$275/year average cost.
Key Facts
North Carolina Golf Cart Insurance Map
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Overview
North Carolina requires liability insurance for all motor vehicles operated on public roads, including golf carts registered as low-speed vehicles (LSVs). The state minimum liability coverage is 50/100/50 (increased in 2025), which is among the highest in the nation and provides strong baseline protection.
Golf carts are very popular in North Carolina, especially in coastal communities like the Outer Banks, Bald Head Island, and various beach towns, as well as in mountain communities, retirement developments, and the Pinehurst/Southern Pines golf region. Bald Head Island is particularly notable as a golf cart-only community where motorized vehicles are not permitted and golf carts are the primary form of transportation.
North Carolina has moderate insurance costs, and the state's competitive insurance market provides golf cart owners with numerous options. The North Carolina Farm Bureau is a major regional carrier with competitive rates, particularly in rural areas. The state also has a unique rate bureau system that helps regulate insurance pricing.
North Carolina-Specific Notes
- Bald Head Island: A unique golf cart-only island community where golf carts are the primary transportation; insurance is essential for all carts there.
- Higher Minimums: North Carolina's 50/100/50 minimums (increased 2025) are among the highest in the nation, providing strong baseline protection.
- NC Farm Bureau: A major insurer in rural North Carolina with competitive rates for recreational vehicles.
- Outer Banks: OBX communities are popular golf cart areas, especially during tourist season.
- Pinehurst Region: The famed golf region has a strong golf cart culture with many carts used for transportation beyond the courses.
- Rate Bureau System: North Carolina has a unique insurance rate bureau that helps regulate pricing, which can benefit consumers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about golf cart insurance in North Carolina.
Do I need insurance for my golf cart in North Carolina?
Yes, if your golf cart is registered as an LSV for use on public roads. North Carolina requires liability insurance with minimums of 50/100/50 for all registered motor vehicles. Golf carts used only on private property, golf courses, or within private communities do not require insurance by state law, though it is recommended.
How much does golf cart insurance cost in North Carolina?
Golf cart insurance in North Carolina typically costs between $100 and $275 per year for basic liability coverage. North Carolina has moderate insurance costs, and the competitive market provides good options. Full coverage may run $240-$450 annually.
What does golf cart insurance cover in North Carolina?
Golf cart insurance in North Carolina covers bodily injury liability, property damage liability, and optional coverages like comprehensive (hurricane damage, theft), collision, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage. Coastal community owners should prioritize comprehensive coverage for hurricane and tropical storm protection.
Do I need insurance for a golf cart on Bald Head Island?
Insurance is strongly recommended for golf carts on Bald Head Island, even though much of the island is technically private. Bald Head Island is a golf cart-only community where carts are the primary mode of transportation. Given the heavy cart traffic and potential for accidents, liability and comprehensive coverage are important. If you take your cart on any public or shared roads, insurance is required.
Do I need insurance for a golf cart in the Outer Banks?
Yes, if you drive your golf cart on public roads in the Outer Banks. Many OBX communities allow golf carts on certain streets, but registered carts must carry liability insurance. The tourist season brings heavy traffic, making insurance especially important. Contact a local OBX insurance agent for competitive golf cart rates.
Related Resources
View golf cart insurance requirements for all 50 states on our interactive map.
Street-legal requirements, speed limits, and regulations in North Carolina.
Complete 2026 pricing guide for new, used, electric, and gas golf carts.
Find top-rated golf cart dealers and services in North Carolina.
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