Understanding LSV Golf Carts
In the golf cart world, a term that is commonly tossed around is "LSV golf carts." This stands for low-speed vehicle and is another term for street legal golf carts. Some people decide to seek out LSVs while others seek to upgrade their current model to make it an LSV. Whatever your situation, use the following guide to learn more about these unique models. If you want to shop LSV golf carts for sale, head over to Revel 42 Golf Carts & Powersports. Our dealership is based in Raleigh and Wilmington, North Carolina. We also proudly serve those in Clayton and Cary, North Carolina.
LSV vs Regular Golf Carts
It helps to understand the difference between these two model styles. A golf cart is made for recreational use on a golf cart and usually can only go less than 20 miles per hour. These models also tend to be more affordable than LSVs. They are commonly used for cruising around a golf course making it easier to transport people and clubs from hole to hole. Some owners modify their models to also be used around the neighborhood, on the beach, and other situations.
An LSV is designed to be street legal. It usually has a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour and can legally be driven on most roads that are 35 miles per hour or less. There are federal safety standards that must be met before a model can be declared an LSV and there are also common state laws that apply as well. These higher safety standards help make LSVs safer than typical golf carts, but they tend to cost more money. These models can be used in a greater variety of situations than a standard golf cart.
The Required Features on LSV
These golf carts must have automotive safety windshield glass, windshield wipers, on-road tires, headlights and brake lights, a horn, turn signals, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, seatbelts, and a vehicle identification number.
Requirements to Drive an LSV
While a golf cart is very different than a car, it's viewed legally the same in many ways. Anyone who operates it must have a valid driver's license. Your child can drive the golf cart, but they do need a learner's permit or a driver's license. You'll also need to register your LSV and insure it. The specific coverage requirements can vary by state, but it's recommended to get full coverage if you intend to drive it on the road. Usually, you'll need an insurance policy that includes Personal Injury Protection and Property Damage Liability.
Getting an LSV Legal for Public Road Use
Once you have an LSV, you'll need to go through a few steps before it's legal to drive. First, get it registered and apply for a registration and title. In many states, you'll need a manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (if your golf cart is new) or the previous owner's Certificate of Title.
Next, decide what insurance coverage you want to get. Talk to your insurance agent to discover the minimum you need to legally drive your golf cart as well as other add-on options you can pursue.
Finally, get your LSV inspected. If your golf cart runs off of an electrical motor or batteries, then you won't need an emission test. If your golf cart runs off of liquid (such as gas), then you will need an emissions test.
We hope you found this guide to LSV golf carts helpful! If you have any questions or want to explore LSV golf carts for sale, head over to Revel 42 Golf Carts & Powersports. Our experts can answer questions, give advice, and help you with whatever you need. We are located in Raleigh and Wilmington, North Carolina, and we also serve those in Clayton and Cary.