Unlike in the past, golf carts have become a popular means of transport outside of golf courses. Nowadays, golf carts are driven on campuses, gated communities, film sets, retirement homes, farms, ranches, parks, and even private property. You can also occasionally see people driving golf carts along beaches or in smaller beach towns.
However, legal laws abide when it comes to using non-converted golf carts in public, especially regarding the legal driving age. How old do you have to be to drive a golf cart? The minimum golf cart driving age is 16 years, as is the case will all other motor-based vehicles and transport mediums.
Minimum age requirements to drive a golf cart in the US
The majority of the states, such as Florida, require a child to be at least 14 years old to drive a golf cart. However, some states, such as California and South Carolina, have a golf cart driving legal age of 13 years. And in other states like Texas, the minimum age is 16 years.
While the minimum age requirement may vary from state to state, it is advisable to let your child wait until they are an older teen before they can drive a golf cart. Additionally, you can only drive golf carts on public land if you have a driving license. And the minimum age for getting a driving license is 16 years.
Minimum age requirements to drive a golf cart in Canada
Big cities such as Ontario have gold cart regulations that state that Golf carts are allowed to operate on the road after inspection and receive a permit from the Ontario Police Department. Additionally, gold cart operators have to be 16 years and older and must have a valid driver’s license.
The golf cart must also not exceed a speed limit of 35 miles per hour and should never be driven on roads with more than two-lanes total. Lastly, the golf cart must have a slow-moving vehicle emblem displayed at the rear of the cart.
Minimum age requirements to drive a golf cart in the UK
The minimum age for driving a golf cart falls under the category of vehicles 350 kg or less with a maximum design speed of not more than 45 km/his 16 years old. Minors using golf carts on private property fall under the responsibility of the Health and Safety Authority.
You should only drive golf carts on private property such as golf courses and lawns. Driving on public roads will require a driving license. And they will be subject to regulatory controls that apply to vehicles, such as vehicle registration, inspection, and taxation. They must also comply with road regulations.
Minimum age requirements to drive a golf cart in Australia
In Australia, you must have a class C driving license to operate a golf cart. The minimum age requirement is 16 years with supervision or 18 years without supervision. The golf cart must also not exceed a speed limit of 25 km/h on level ground.
The golf cart must also have at least four wheels, and the golf cart owner should use high floatation tires to make them suitable for use on golf courses and grass turf. The weight limit on golf carts is 350kgs which is roughly four grownups. Lastly, extra seats beyond two seats must be bench-type seating.
Can children drive golf carts?
No. Children should never be allowed to drive a golf cart. They lack the judgment capability to operate a vehicle and the necessary motor skills. There is also the risk of forceful ejection should they hit a pavement or car, resulting in grievous body injuries.
They should also not be allowed on a golf cart without adult supervision. Additionally, when driving a golf cart with a kid in tow, always drive at a slower speed. And ensure they sit in the back. Lastly, be careful when negotiating corners and going over bumps.