What Are the Age Restrictions for Golf Carts and LSVs in Maryland?
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In Maryland, drivers must be at least 16 years old to operate a golf cart or Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) on public roads. Golf carts are restricted to roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower, while LSVs require registration, insurance, and safety features like seat belts. Local ordinances may impose additional rules.
Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive a Golf Cart in Michigan?
How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Golf Cart in Maryland?
Maryland law mandates that golf cart operators must be 16 or older. Minors under 18 require a learner’s permit or driver’s license. Golf carts cannot exceed 20 mph and are limited to roads with speed limits under 35 mph. Off-road use on private property has no age restrictions, but parental supervision is advised.
This age requirement aligns with Maryland’s graduated licensing system, which emphasizes supervised driving experience. Teens with learner’s permits must have a licensed adult 21+ in the cart during operation. Exceptions exist for agricultural use—farmworkers as young as 12 may operate golf carts during daylight hours on private farmland. Enforcement varies by county: Talbot County mandates reflective safety stripes for road-legal carts, while Worcester County prohibits golf carts on beach-adjacent roads during peak tourist seasons.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Operating an LSV in Maryland?
LSVs must be registered, insured, and equipped with headlights, taillights, mirrors, and seat belts. Drivers must hold a valid driver’s license. LSVs can operate on roads with speed limits up to 50 mph but cannot exceed 25 mph. Local jurisdictions may enforce stricter rules, such as prohibiting LSVs in high-traffic areas.
Where Are Golf Carts and LSVs Allowed to Operate in Maryland?
Golf carts are permitted on roads with speed limits ≤35 mph, while LSVs can operate on roads ≤50 mph. Both are banned from highways and interstate routes. Municipalities like Ocean City have specific zones for LSVs. Private communities may set their own rules for golf cart usage.
Does Maryland Require Insurance for Golf Carts and LSVs?
LSVs require liability insurance, similar to standard vehicles. Golf carts used exclusively on private property do not need insurance, but those driven on public roads must be insured. Policies typically cover property damage and bodily injury. Consult an insurance agent to ensure compliance with state and local laws.
What Safety Equipment Is Mandatory for Golf Carts and LSVs?
LSVs must have seat belts, windshields, mirrors, and DOT-approved tires. Golf carts require rear-facing amber lights if driven at night. Helmets are optional for adults but recommended for minors. Reflective signage and slow-moving vehicle emblems are required for public road use.
Maryland’s safety standards prioritize collision prevention and visibility. A 2022 MSP study found 73% of golf cart accidents involved carts without proper reflectors. LSVs must undergo annual inspections confirming functional turn signals and hydraulic brakes. Many dealerships now offer upgrade packages including:
Feature | Golf Cart | LSV |
---|---|---|
Seat Belts | Optional | Required |
Roll Bars | Recommended | Mandatory |
Horn | Required | Required |
Can Minors Drive Golf Carts on Private Property in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland imposes no age limits for golf cart use on private land. However, parents/guardians are liable for accidents or injuries. Supervised driving is encouraged, and safety guidelines (e.g., speed limits, helmets) should still apply to minimize risks.
“Maryland’s LSV regulations prioritize road safety without stifling accessibility,” says a Redway mobility expert. “The 16-year age minimum balances youth mobility and responsibility. However, communities should educate drivers on local rules—especially in tourist areas where golf cart usage surges seasonally. Regular maintenance checks for brakes and lights are critical, even for low-speed vehicles.”
Conclusion
Maryland’s age and safety rules for golf carts and LSVs aim to protect drivers and pedestrians. Always verify local ordinances, insure LSVs, and prioritize safety gear. Whether cruising a coastal town or navigating private property, compliance ensures a safer experience for all.
FAQs
- Can I Drive a Golf Cart at Night in Maryland?
- Yes, if equipped with headlights, taillights, and reflectors. Golf carts cannot operate on roads without proper lighting.
- Are Passengers Allowed in LSVs?
- Yes, provided seat belts are available for all occupants. Overloading is prohibited.
- Do I Need a License to Drive an LSV?
- Yes. A valid driver’s license is mandatory for LSVs on public roads.
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