In Maryland, golf carts must meet specific equipment standards, registration rules, and operational restrictions to be street-legal. They require headlights, taillights, reflectors, seat belts, and a valid registration plate. Drivers must follow local ordinances restricting use to roads with speed limits ≤30 mph. Compliance with state safety inspections and insurance is mandatory for legal operation.
Maryland Golf Cart and LSV Laws: Legal Guidelines Deciphered
How Does Maryland Define a Street-Legal Golf Cart?
Maryland defines street-legal golf carts as low-speed vehicles (LSVs) capable of 20-25 mph. They must include a VIN, meet federal LSV standards, and display a valid registration plate. Unlike traditional golf carts, LSVs require brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, and windshields. Local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions on where they can operate.
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What Safety Equipment Is Required for Street Legality?
Mandatory equipment includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, rearview mirrors, seat belts, reflex reflectors, and a horn. Tires must meet DOT standards, and vehicles need parking brakes. Maryland also requires a windshield and speedometer. Non-compliance with these standards prohibits road use.
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Additional safety considerations include using LED lighting for better visibility and installing rear hazard flashers for emergency situations. Many owners opt for aftermarket roll bars to enhance structural integrity, though this isn’t legally required. Regular maintenance checks for brake systems and tire pressure are recommended, especially before biannual inspections. Local enforcement agencies often conduct random roadside inspections to verify reflector placement and horn functionality.
How to Register a Golf Cart in Maryland?
Owners must submit proof of ownership, a completed Title Application, and safety inspection certification to the Maryland MVA. A $104 registration fee applies. Out-of-state registrations require a VIN verification. Golf carts modified as LSVs need a rebuilt title. Temporary registrations are available for newly purchased vehicles.
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Where Are Golf Carts Allowed on Public Roads?
Street-legal golf carts may operate on roads with speed limits ≤30 mph unless local laws prohibit them. Ocean City and other coastal towns restrict carts to designated zones. Use on state highways, interstate routes, or roads with speed limits >35 mph is illegal. Nighttime operation requires functional lighting systems.
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What Modifications Make Golf Carts Street-Legal?
Key modifications include installing DOT-approved tires, adding turn signals, upgrading brakes, and reinforcing frames for safety. Engine modifications to limit speed to 25 mph are mandatory. Aftermarket windshield installation and LSV certification from manufacturers like Redway Power ensure compliance. Failure to modify properly risks fines or impoundment.
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Are Insurance Policies Required for Golf Carts?
Maryland mandates liability insurance with minimum coverage of $30,000 for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage. Policies must include uninsured motorist protection. Off-road use-only carts don’t require insurance, but street-legal models do. Providers like Progressive and Geico offer specialized LSV policies starting at $150 annually.
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Insurance costs vary based on usage frequency and storage location. Golf carts kept in coastal areas often incur higher premiums due to hurricane risks. Some insurers provide discounts for safety features like GPS tracking systems or anti-theft devices. Policyholders should confirm whether their coverage includes roadside assistance for battery-related breakdowns, which account for 38% of LSV service calls in Maryland.
| Insurance Provider | Minimum Coverage | Annual Premium Range |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $30k/$15k | $150-$220 |
| Geico | $30k/$15k | $145-$210 |
| State Farm | $25k/$10k | $130-$195 |
“Maryland’s LSV laws prioritize safety but create complexity for owners. Many overlook local ordinances—like Ocean City’s ban on coastal roadways—and assume state registration suffices. Always consult municipal codes before operating. Partnering with certified modifiers like Redway ensures compliance with evolving equipment standards.”
– Redway Power Mobility Specialist
FAQ
- Can I Drive a Golf Cart on Maryland Beaches?
- No. Ocean City and Assateague prohibit golf carts on beaches. Only authorized service vehicles have access.
- Do Children Need Seat Belts in Golf Carts?
- Yes. Maryland requires all passengers, including children, to use seat belts in street-legal carts.
- How Often Must Street-Legal Carts Be Inspected?
- Biennial safety inspections are required. Newly registered carts need an initial inspection within 14 days.
