Cruising past palmettos with the ocean breeze in your face—golf carts bring a new vibe to exploring Charleston’s coastal towns. From Rainbow Row to Isle of Palms, these rides turn every outing into a fun, laid-back adventure.
But what makes a golf cart street legal, and how far can you really go? Here’s what you need to know, and how Just Beachy golf cart rentals make getting around easy.
What the Law Says About Golf Carts in South Carolina
You can take a golf cart on the road in South Carolina, but only if you follow a few clear rules. Here’s what the state requires before you can roll out:
- Get your paperwork in order. Golf carts don’t need a title like regular cars, but must be insured, registered, and permitted through the South Carolina DMV.
- Stick to slower roads. Golf carts aren’t built for highways. You can only drive them on roads with 35 mph or lower speed limits.
- Watch your distance. You can’t go more than 4 miles from the address on the cart’s registration.
- Driver must be licensed. Operators must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
- Daytime driving only. You can only drive during daylight hours—no nighttime joyrides with standard carts.
Knowing whether you’re driving a standard golf cart or a low speed vehicle (LSV) decides where you can go, when you can drive, and how far you’re allowed to travel.
Low Speed Vehicles and How They Differ From Golf Carts
Although they may look similar to golf carts, low speed vehicles (LSVs) are defined by state law and regulated differently.
You can distinguish an LSV from a standard golf cart by its equipment and safety features. To be legally considered an LSV, the vehicle must have all of the following, as outlined by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS Standard 500):
- USDOT headlights and taillights
- A speedometer
- Turn signals
- Windshield wipers
- A parking brake
- Side- and rear-view mirrors
- Seatbelts for all occupants
- A horn
- A vehicle identification number (VIN)
For instance, if you see a 4 passenger golf cart rental with headlights and seatbelts on every seat, it’s likely an LSV.
You’ll still need a valid driver’s license to operate an LSV, and you can’t drive it on roads posted above 35 mph. You can, however, use an LSV at night and aren’t limited to a 4-mile radius from its registration address. LSVs are allowed in both standard parking spaces and “golf cart only” spots, so you have more parking options wherever you go.
Local private property owners (like a resort, golf club, or shopping center) can set more restrictive parking rules. Always check posted signs and ask local staff if you’re unsure.
Safety Guidelines When Operating a Golf Cart or LSV
Whether you’re driving an LSV in Charleston or an Isle of Palms golf cart rental, always drive it safely and responsibly. Here are a few guidelines to follow to keep it safe and fun for everyone:
- Respect traffic laws at all times. Treat your golf cart or LSV like any other motor vehicle. Respect stop signs, avoid distracted driving, don’t drive on bike paths or sidewalks, don’t try lane splitting, and, of course, no drinking and driving. If you’re going out for a drink with your group, choose a designated driver before heading out.
- Follow all rental rules. Rental golf carts and LSVs are often subject to additional rules from the rental company. Read your rental agreement and ensure you understand it before driving. For example, at Just Beachy, we require primary renters to be at least 25 years old and any other drivers accompanying them to be at least 21.
- Never overload the cart. Never allow more than one passenger per seat, no matter how old or small they are. If you need more than four seats, consider renting a 6 passenger LSV.
- Keep all limbs inside the cart. Most rental golf carts and LSVs don’t have doors, so everyone should always keep their hands, feet, and arms inside. Drivers should make sure all passengers are fully seated and buckled up, if seatbelts are available, before heading out.
Rent an LSV With Just Beachy Today
Cruising around the Lowcountry’s prettiest spots is more fun in a street legal golf cart or LSV. Whether rolling through Charleston’s colorful streets, grabbing lunch on Sullivan’s Island, or chasing sunsets on the Isle of Palms, a golf cart rental lets you skip the parking headaches and soak up every moment.
At Just Beachy, you’ll find a fleet of 100% electric 4 and 6 passenger LSVs that are a breeze to drive, legal after dark, and guaranteed to make every day of your stay more fun. Reserve yours today and see the best of the coast in style.
