Virginia Golf Cart Insurance (2026)

Virginia requires liability insurance for all registered motor vehicles, including low-speed vehicles (LSVs). As of July 1, 2024, Virginia became a mandatory insurance state — the old $500 Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee option was repealed under SB 951. All registered vehicles must now carry at least 50/100/25 liability coverage (effective January 1, 2025 under Virginia Code 46.2-472).

Standard golf carts (under 20 mph) are not registered with the Virginia DMV and can only operate on public roads where a local governing body has adopted an ordinance under Virginia Code 46.2-916.2. Insurance for unregistered golf carts depends on the local ordinance — some localities like Norfolk require liability insurance as a condition of the local permit.

Golf carts are popular in Virginia's coastal communities, particularly in Virginia Beach and the Northern Neck region, as well as in retirement communities and resort areas. GEICO, headquartered in the Virginia/DC area, is a major presence in the state's insurance market.

• Mandatory Insurance (2024): Virginia repealed the $500 UMV fee option effective July 1, 2024. All registered vehicles must now carry insurance — no opt-out.
• High Minimums: Virginia's 50/100/25 minimums (effective Jan 1, 2025) are among the highest in the nation.
• Golf Cart Local Ordinances: Golf carts require a local ordinance to operate on public roads (Virginia Code 46.2-916.2). Limited to roads with posted speed limits of 25 mph or less.
• Norfolk: Requires golf cart operators to carry liability insurance of $100,000 personal injury / $20,000 property damage under its local ordinance.
• GEICO Headquarters: GEICO is based in the Virginia/DC area and is one of the most accessible carriers for golf cart coverage.
• Virginia Beach: A popular golf cart community with local ordinances governing cart use on certain streets.
• Northern Neck: The Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula regions have growing golf cart cultures in waterfront communities.