Indiana Golf Cart Laws (2025)

Not by default. Indiana’s default law forbids golf carts on public roads. They only become legal if a local government (city, town, or county) passes an ordinance to allow it. So whether you can drive a golf cart in town depends on local law – many small towns allow it (with rules), but many places do not.

First, you need to be in a jurisdiction that has authorized golf carts. Second, you must be a licensed driver – state law mandates that local ordinances require a valid driver’s license or that the driver be at least 16 years and 180 days old with a state-issued ID. You also have to obey any conditions set by the ordinance (like only on certain streets, daylight driving, etc.). Generally, you do not need a license plate from the BMV, since golf carts aren’t registered, but you might need a local permit decal.

Indiana’s BMV does not register golf carts – they’re exempt from state registration. However, if your town allows carts, you’ll probably have to register it with the town. This usually involves a one-time or annual fee and getting a permit sticker. Insurance is not explicitly required by state statute for golf carts, but many local ordinances ask for proof of liability insurance during the permit process. And it’s wise to insure it anyway, because if you’re in an accident, you could be held liable.

Only on roads designated by local ordinance. Typically, that means residential streets or downtown areas where the speed limit is 25 mph or so. Golf carts in ordinance towns are usually not allowed on state highways, though crossing a highway at an intersection is often permitted if necessary. Always stick to the specific streets or zones your town has approved – the ordinance often lists them or there will be signage.

You could be pulled over and ticketed. Indiana law (IC 9-21-8-57) classifies that as an infraction – essentially you’d be cited for operating an unregistered/uninsured vehicle on a public road. The golf cart could also be impounded. So it’s important to know the local law. If you’re not sure, assume it’s not legal until you confirm an ordinance exists allowing it.

Yes, counties can pass ordinances too. For instance, some rural counties permit golf carts on county roads in subdivisions or unincorporated communities. The rules would be similar – licensed driver, daylight only, 35 mph or lower roads, etc. Always look up the specific county code. Keep in mind, even if a county allows it, you still can’t take a golf cart on state highways or roads not under that county’s jurisdiction.