Florida golf cart & LSV laws

s. 316.212: Operation of golf carts on certain roadways

• Golf carts banned on public roads except roads designated by a county, municipality or water control district, with signs posted (sub. 1)
• State highways: crossing only at FDOT-approved crossings (sub. 2)
• Sunrise to sunset only, unless the local government allows night use and cart has headlights, brake lights, turn signals and windshield (sub. 5)
• Required equipment: efficient brakes, reliable steering, safe tires, rearview mirror, red reflectors front and rear (sub. 6)
• Under 18: valid learner's license or driver license; 18+: government photo ID (sub. 7)
• Locals may be more restrictive; sidewalk use only by ordinance, max 15 mph, sidewalks next to state highways at least 8 ft wide (sub. 8)
• Violations are noncriminal traffic infractions (sub. 9)

Official text (flsenate.gov) · last amended by s. 1, ch. 2023-67 (HB 949, effective Oct 1, 2023)

s. 316.2122: Operation of a low-speed vehicle, mini truck, or low-speed autonomous delivery vehicle on certain roadways

• LSVs allowed on streets posted 35 mph or less; may cross faster roads at intersections
• Equipment: headlamps, stop lamps, turn signals, taillamps, reflex reflectors, parking brake, rearview mirrors, windshield, seat belts, VIN
• Must be registered, insured (s. 320.02) and titled (ch. 319)
• Driver must have a valid driver license
• County/city (or FDOT) may prohibit LSVs on a road for safety

Official text (flsenate.gov) · last amended by s. 2, ch. 2021-233

s. 316.2125: Operation of golf carts within a retirement community

• Golf carts permitted within self-contained retirement communities if equipped/operated per 316.212(5)-(7)
• County, municipality or FDOT may prohibit for safety
• Locals may adopt more restrictive ordinances (apply only to unlicensed drivers)

Official text (flsenate.gov) · last amended by s. 4, ch. 2008-98

s. 320.01: Definitions, general

• 320.01(22) golf cart: designed for golf course use, not capable of exceeding 20 mph
• 320.01(41) low-speed vehicle: four-wheeled, top speed >20 and <=25 mph, must meet 49 CFR 571.500 and s. 316.2122

Official text (flsenate.gov) · last amended by s. 3, ch. 2025-1

s. 316.003: Definitions (Uniform Traffic Control)

• Golf cart: a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes

Official text (flsenate.gov) · last amended by s. 6, ch. 2025-155