Golf carts are a convenient and fun way to travel short distances in South Carolina, but they must comply with specific golf cart and neighborhood electric vehicles regulations to remain legal for public road use.
South Carolina has established clear laws for operating golf carts on public roads. These regulations aim to balance convenience with public safety. If you live in or plan to visit the state and intend to drive a golf cart, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements.
Under South Carolina law, golf carts may only be driven during daylight hours. This means your cart must be off the roads from sunset to sunrise. Night driving is strictly prohibited for standard golf carts—even those with lights—unless they are classified and registered as neighborhood electric vehicles.
To operate a golf cart legally in South Carolina, the driver must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. This regulation applies to both public and private property. Unlicensed or underage drivers are not permitted to operate golf carts on any public roadways.
South Carolina law allows registered golf carts to be driven on roads within four miles of the address listed on the golf cart’s registration certificate. The cart must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV), and a permit decal must be visibly displayed.
Additionally, golf carts are only permitted on secondary highways or streets where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or lower. They are not allowed on primary highways or roads with higher speed limits, even if the cart stays within its four-mile radius.
neighborhood electric vehicles differ from traditional golf carts in that they are manufactured to reach speeds between 20 and 25 mph and meet federal safety requirements. These vehicles must be registered, insured, and titled like any other motor vehicle. NEV are equipped with essential safety features such as headlights, seat belts, turn signals, mirrors, and windshields.
Because of their classification, NEV can be operated at night and on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph, but they still must remain within lawful routes defined by local ordinances.
South Carolina provides a favorable environment for golf cart use, especially in coastal and resort communities. By adhering to state and local laws, you can safely and legally enjoy the convenience of a golf cart or neighborhood electric vehicles. For high-quality and street-legal electric vehicle options, consider browsing the innovative models from TARA Electric Vehicles.
