New York Golf Cart Laws (2025)
Golf carts are generally not street-legal in New York. Learn about LSV requirements and local exceptions.
Key Facts
“Low-Speed Vehicle” (LSV) – 4-wheel, >20 mph ≤25 mph, ≤3,000 lb GVWR, meets FMVSS 500
New York Golf Cart Law Map
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Overview
New York permits Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) on certain roads. By NY definition, an LSV is a limited-use automobile or truck with a top speed over 20 mph but not over 25 mph and weighing under 3,000 lbs. LSVs must be registered with the NYS DMV and equipped with all required safety features (lights, reflectors, windshield, seat belts, etc.). They can be driven on public highways with speed limits of 35 mph or lower, and may cross larger roads at intersections. Local authorities or NYDOT can prohibit LSV operation on specific roads if safety is a concern. Important: A regular golf cart cannot be registered in NY and is generally not allowed on public streets – only vehicles meeting the LSV criteria are street-legal.
County & Local Rules
Local Rules: New York State sets a uniform rule for LSVs statewide. Municipalities cannot waive the state equipment or registration requirements, but they can petition to allow LSVs on certain roads up to 35 mph (which the state law already permits) and can also ban LSVs on particular roads if deemed hazardous. In practice, some communities (e.g. certain Long Island beach towns) have embraced LSVs for local transport – but these are registered LSVs with plates. Unmodified golf carts are not recognized for street use anywhere in NY. Driving an unregistered golf cart on public roads can result in fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about golf cart laws and regulations in New York.
Are golf carts street legal in New York?
Not ordinary golf carts – New York does not allow unregistered golf carts on public roads. Only Low-Speed Vehicles that meet strict criteria are street-legal. These LSVs are often golf-cart-like, but they must be registered, insured, and equipped to DMV standards. Essentially, unless your “golf cart” has been manufactured or modified to LSV specifications and registered with NY plates, it is not legal for road use.
Do you need a New York driver's license to drive a golf cart?
Yes. To operate a registered LSV on public roads in NY, you must have a valid driver’s license (at least a junior license at 16). LSVs are treated as motor vehicles – the driver is subject to all licensing laws. Driving an unlicensed motor vehicle (including an LSV) on public roads is illegal. So a license is definitely required.
Do you need insurance for a street legal golf cart in New York?
Yes. An LSV must be registered and insured like any other vehicle. New York’s no-fault insurance laws apply, meaning you need at least the minimum liability coverage for it. When you register an LSV, you have to provide proof of insurance. Operating without insurance can lead to severe penalties (just as it would with a car).
Are seat belts required in golf carts in New York?
For an LSV, absolutely yes. New York’s regulations incorporate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500 for LSVs, which requires a seat belt at each seating position. NY DMV rules explicitly list seat belts as required equipment on low-speed vehicles. If a golf cart doesn’t have seat belts (along with other required features), it cannot be registered as an LSV.
How fast can a street legal golf cart go in New York?
By definition, a Low-Speed Vehicle in NY cannot exceed 25 mph. They typically operate in the 20–25 mph range. New York limits LSV operation to roads with speed limits 35 mph or below, and they may only cross higher-speed roads at intersections.
How old do you have to be to drive a golf cart in New York?
At least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. New York’s graduated licensing means 16-year-olds have junior licenses with some restrictions, but they can operate cars (and thus LSVs) except in certain areas/times. There’s no special golf cart license; it falls under normal driving rules.
How to register a golf cart in New York?
You cannot register a plain golf cart. To register a Low-Speed Vehicle, you need the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or title that identifies it as an LSV (which confirms it meets safety standards). You’ll bring that to a DMV office, complete a vehicle registration/title application (MV-82), show proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and pay title and registration fees. The DMV will issue a registration and a special plate with an 'LSV' designation. Note: New York will not register a golf cart that hasn’t been certified to meet LSV regulations.
What are the requirements for a street legal golf cart in New York?
It must qualify as an LSV. That means: four wheels, capable of >20 mph but ≤25 mph, gross weight <3,000 lbs, and equipped with all mandatory equipment – headlights, tail/brake lights, front and side reflectors, turn signals, mirrors, a windshield, parking brake, seat belts, horn, and a VIN. It also needs a 17-digit VIN and certification from the manufacturer that it meets NHTSA LSV safety standards. Only with all that can it be registered and street-legal in NY.
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