Driving a golf cart is an easy way to get around a golf course without tiring yourself or carrying heavy clubs. In the state of Florida, there are many golf courses and retirement communities with golf courses. Some golfers own their golf carts and prefer to drive the cart to the course. Certain statutes in Florida restrict when and where you can drive your golf cart.
Golf carts on roadways
Driving a golf cart on a public road or street is prohibited with just a few exceptions. You can drive a golf cart through certain roads if the road has been approved for golf cart crossing. If the road is approved, there will be a sign designating the road is used by golf carts.
Cart requirements
The golf cart must be in good working condition. The cart must be equipped with effective brakes, reliable steering, safe tires, a rearview mirror and reflectors in the front and rear of the cart. The carts can only be operated from sunrise to sunset. If the cart is equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals and windshield, it can be operated after sunset.
Age requirements
In Florida, you do not need a valid driver's license to operate a golf cart. The state does not impose age restrictions for operating a golf cart while on a golf course. But a golf cart driver has to be over 14 years old when crossing a public road designated for golf carts.
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Writer Bio
Abigail O'Connell is a freelance writer based in Louisville, Ky., and has been writing since 2009. She has been published in a local alternative weekly and has also been featured on Altweeklies.com. O'Connell is a recent graduate of Indiana University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism.