In Tennessee, golf cart and neighborhood electric vehicles laws regulate how and where these vehicles can operate on public streets. Understanding these rules is essential for safe and legal driving.
Under Tennessee state law, a golf cart is defined as “a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that is not capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour.” This means that traditional golf carts cannot be registered for on-road use unless they have been modified to meet state and federal safety standards for neighborhood electric vehicles.
To be operated legally on public roads, a traditional golf cart must be upgraded to meet all the requirements of a low or medium speed vehicle. This includes equipment like headlights, taillights, brake lights, seat belts, turn signals, rearview mirrors, a windshield, parking brakes, and a vehicle identification number (VIN).
Once modifications are complete, the owner must submit a neighborhood electric vehicles Affidavit along with the registration application. This affidavit confirms that the golf cart meets all the required safety standards. Upon verification, the local county clerk’s office can issue a certificate of title and register the vehicle as an NEV.
As of April 2, 2018, the city of Knoxville requires all golf carts and off-road vehicles operated on city streets to be licensed. Residents must:
The inspection includes checking for a visible slow-moving vehicle triangle, a safety flag, and confirming that the vehicle is free of hazardous defects. To schedule an inspection, residents must call 641-828-0541 and visit the Knoxville Police Department with the vehicle.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), if a golf cart or similar vehicle can exceed 20 mph, it is legally considered a motor vehicle and must comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. This includes the addition of equipment required for safe road use and meeting performance specifications.
Operating a golf cart or NEV without proper registration or safety upgrades can result in fines and legal issues. Always ensure the vehicle is compliant with both local and federal laws. Additionally, many Tennessee cities have their own regulations regarding street usage, and it’s important to check with your local jurisdiction before driving on public roads.
Whether you’re using a golf cart for recreation or converting one into a legal for public road use neighborhood electric vehicles, understanding Tennessee’s regulations is essential. By meeting all legal requirements and obtaining proper documentation, you can enjoy your golf cart safely and legally across approved city streets in Tennessee.
