The use of golf carts in South Carolina has seen a massive surge, particularly in gated communities, secondary highways, and local neighborhoods near beaches. As their popularity has grown, so have concerns about golf cart accidents, lack of registration certificates, and violations of driving regulations. In response, lawmakers passed House Bill 3292, which introduces a comprehensive overhaul of existing golf cart laws in 2025.
If you’re a resident of Charleston or any part of South Carolina, and you operate or plan to operate a golf cart, it is crucial to understand the safety regulations, new registration mandates, and the legal risks associated with improper use.
Why the Changes to Golf Cart Laws Matter
With rising numbers of Golf Cart Crashes and unsafe operations on public roads, the state revised its laws to ensure better safety and accountability. Data from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles showed an increase in cart-related incidents, often linked to underage drivers, lack of liability insurance, and use outside of legal daylight hours or beyond the posted speed limit.
1. Annual Golf Cart Registration and Permit Decal Requirements
Under House Bill 3292, all golf carts must now be:
- Registered annually through the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Issued a new permit decal that includes scannable ownership information.
- Accompanied by a valid registration certificate at all times.
- Assigned a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) if one doesn’t exist.
The registration document must match your registration address. Failing to keep your titles and registration updated could result in fines and confiscation of your cart.
2. Mandatory Liability Insurance for Golf Carts
One of the most significant updates involves liability insurance. Effective January 2025:
- Golf carts used on any public road, secondary highway, or public highway must carry liability insurance.
- Proof of insurance is required at the time of registration or during any stop by law enforcement.
- Operating without coverage may result in penalties up to $750.
This aims to address growing concerns from the legal community about compensation for injuries in golf cart accidents.
3. Updated Driver’s License and Age Restrictions
To reduce accidents involving minors, the law now states:
- The driver’s license holder must be at least 18 years old.
- Temporary or learner’s permits are not valid for golf cart operation.
- This includes operation in gated communities and on golf cart paths.
If caught without a valid driver’s license, you may face fines and potential legal consequences.
4. Daylight Hours & Equipment Requirements
Previously, many people operated golf carts past daylight hours. Under the new law:
- Operation is strictly limited to daylight hours unless carts are equipped with proper safety regulations (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reflectors).
- Even with these modifications, nighttime use is allowed only in designated areas approved by local ordinances.
This was enforced after reports from local departments like the Charleston Fire Department and Isle of Palms Police Department regarding nighttime Golf Cart Crashes.
5. Where Can You Drive a Golf Cart in South Carolina?
Understanding permitted zones is critical. Under 2025 law:
- Carts can operate only on public roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less.
- They can cross intersections where the crossing road has a speed limit no greater than 45 mph.
- Driving on a public highway or secondary highway is only allowed under specific conditions defined in the updated Golf Cart Ordinance.
Communities may establish golf cart paths with signage. Always confirm with your HOA or city before driving beyond approved zones.
6. Golf Cart Equipment and Passenger Safety
The state’s safety regulations now require:
- Proper seats for all passengers , no lap-riding.
- Seatbelts for all carts manufactured after 2025.
- Child safety seats for children under 8 years old.
- Honking or alert systems in congested areas, including gated communities.
7. Alcohol, Distractions, and Reckless Golf Cart Operation
According to new golf cart laws:
- Operating a golf cart under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be penalized under DUI statutes.
- Texting, talking on phones, or reckless turning on public roads is now equivalent to a moving violation.
- These laws now align golf cart regulations with driving regulations used for motor vehicles.
Accidents may also impact Disability Insurance Benefits if a rider is permanently injured.
8. Golf Cart Registration Fees and Local Ordinances
The registration fee has increased to reflect added administrative and safety requirements. Local dealers, such as Joe’s Carts, must now verify ownership and provide inspection records before selling or transferring a cart.
Municipalities are also permitted to:
- Charge additional registration fees.
- Require golf cart permits for city-specific areas.
- Impose additional safety regulations for use on public roads and golf cart paths.
Legal Risks and When to Seek Help
If you’re injured in a Golf Cart Crash or face penalties due to misunderstood Golf Cart Laws, it’s crucial to understand your rights. Issues involving the Department of Motor Vehicles, liability insurance, or violations of posted speed limits can be legally complex.
Whether you’re navigating a claim with an insurance company or dealing with personal injury from a negligent cart driver, professional legal support ensures your rights are protected.
About Ted Law Firm
Ted Law Firm is a premier legal team serving clients across South Carolina. From golf cart accidents to serious vehicle collisions, we provide reliable guidance for injury victims navigating claims and legal responsibilities.
We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s reckless or criminal behavior, our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation .his can cause major personal, commercial, and emotional loss. We’ve worked with numerous clients throughout Charleston County, holding agencies and utility providers accountable when avoidable events like sewer and water main breaks disrupt daily life. We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s reckless or criminal behavior, our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
