Although every state has its own rules, this is what you need to know for your golf cart to be street legal in the state of Alabama. These requirements were put in place to protect drivers in both golf carts and automobiles from accidents and liabilities. Even a small fender bender can put you in danger if you’re in a golf cart.
SPEED
To classify your golf cart as a low-speed vehicle, it needs to reach a minimum speed of 20 mph and a maximum speed of 25 mph (which is also the speed limit in residential areas). This is so you can match the speed of other vehicles on the road.
SAFETY
These features are necessary for a golf cart to be road-ready:
- Headlamps, tail lamps, and stop lamps
- Front and rear turn signals
- Brake lights
- Red reflect reflectors on both sides and the rear
- A side view mirror on the driver’s side and the passenger side and an internal rear view mirror
- A parking brake
- A windshield that conforms to the federal standard for glazing materials.
- A seat belt meeting federal standards at each designated seating position.
DOCUMENTATION
Since your golf cart is street legal, it is now treated like any other vehicle on the road. This needs you need to register it with the DMV and get a vehicle identification number (VIN) that conforms to federal standards and Alabama state law (if your municipality requires it).
You also need to get liability insurance, as well as being over the age of 18 and having a driver’s license. Keep your documents with you at all times when on the road so you can proved you’re a licensed driver. Unlicensed drivers can receive a ticket.
OTHER REGULATIONS
- You can also get a ticket if you are going above 15 mph in a school zone. Stop at all stop signs, yield right of way, stop at traffic lights and drive as you normally world. You can also get arrested if you are caught driving under the influence.
- Do not drive your golf cart on sidewalks, as that is against the law and land you in a heap of trouble.
- Make sure your underage children understand the golf cart is not a toy. If they illegally operate the vehicle, they can cause a serious accident.
- Always follow safety protocols and make sure you know any about additional laws, rules and regulations for your city or municipality.