Are Children Allowed To Drive Golf Carts?
Golf carts are frequently exempt from many of the laws that we associate with driving. You don't need a driver's license to operate a golf cart, and you don't need to buy insurance for one or get the proper registration. Of course, these rules often mean golf carts can't do many things other vehicles can, like driving on certain public roads.
With all the rules about what golf carts are or aren’t allowed to do, it’s normal to ask if children are allowed to drive golf carts. Today, we’re going over some of the details you need to know.
State Laws
Before you even think about letting your child behind the wheel of a golf cart, check the specific laws in your state. For example, Tennessee requires the driver to be 16 years old and the owner in order to register the cart as a low-speed vehicle before driving it on public roads. However, Mississippi allows a parent or legal guardian to accompany any driver under 15 years old.
Many states have a minimum age requirement of 14 years before a child can drive a golf cart alone. Ensure that you follow local laws about where your child can legally drive the cart.
Private Property
When you’re wondering if children can drive golf carts, it's crucial to remember that the laws refer to driving on public roads. If you're on private property, like your lawn or many golf courses, you may allow your children to practice their driving skills with the golf cart.
Safety First
No matter where you let your child drive a golf cart, please remember to stay safe. Records show that almost half of golf cart accidents involve younger drivers. It's okay to want your child to practice driving or let them take the cart around the neighborhood, but we recommend training them on safety and proper driving techniques before letting them go out on their own.
If you want to purchase your own golf cart, Ben Nelson Golf and Utility Vehicles has been helping people find carts and low-speed vehicles for over a decade. Ben Nelson is a licensed E-Z-GO golf cart dealer with many different makes and models. To learn more, stop by one of our dealerships or contact us anytime to speak to a specialist for more information.