Kansas restricts golf cart use on highways but allows limited street driving under local regulations. Learn about neighborhood electric vehicles compliance and safety rules here.
According to Kansas law, a golf cart is a motor vehicle that meets all the following conditions:
While golf carts offer convenience and affordability, Kansas has specific regulations to ensure their safe use within certain areas.
Golf carts are prohibited from operating on interstate highways, federal roads, and state highways in Kansas. Additionally, unless approved by the local city government, they cannot be driven on public streets within city limits.
Carts are also banned from roads with speed limits above 30 mph. However, they are allowed to **cross** roads that exceed this speed limit at designated intersections.
Kansas law originally permitted golf carts to operate only between sunrise and sunset. However, as of **March 29, 2018**, the Kansas Senate approved limited night driving. To legally drive a golf cart at night, it must be equipped with:
According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicles such as golf carts that do not exceed **20 mph (32 km/h)** are **not** considered motor vehicles. Therefore, they are subject only to **state and local** safety equipment laws.
However, if a golf cart or similar vehicle was originally designed to exceed 20 mph, it is considered a **motor vehicle** under federal law. These vehicles must comply with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.
To qualify as a legal for public road use neighborhood electric vehicles, a golf cart must include specific safety features:
These upgrades are necessary to legally operate a golf cart as an NEV on public roads, particularly within city limits that have approved golf cart ordinances.
If you’re a Kansas resident looking to enjoy the benefits of a golf cart for commuting or recreation, it’s crucial to stay compliant with local and state laws. While golf carts offer a low-cost and eco-friendly transportation option, proper registration, safety equipment, and adherence to designated areas are key to legal operation.
