If you like to bring along your low-speed vehicle when traveling, you’ll want to hear about our favorite street legal golf cars.
That’s right, you can’t take just any cart out on the road. You need certain features before you can venture out.
We’ve made a list of vehicles with everything you need to hit the road without breaking any rules. Whether you want to transport people or cargo, drive electric or gas, we think you’ll find a vehicle that suits your needs on this list.
Let’s buckle up!
About Street Legal Golf Carts
Not every buggy can go for a spin down the avenue. You need a street legal golf cart to drive it down a public road. Having seatbelts will prevent a costly ticket and should be considered essential for safety. You’ll also need a windshielf, mirrors, and lights before you can hit the open road.
Most states in the U.S. require golf carts to be able to move around 20 miles per hour and weigh less than 3,000 pounds. You may need a driver’s license or special permit to operate a low-speed vehicle depending on your location. Every state has its own guidelines for low-speed vehicle use, be sure to check with your local DMV for specific guidelines in your area.
Some states don’t allow them on the road, including Hawaii, Delaware, and Missouri. Likewise, driving a low speed vehicle on public roads in Maryland and Rhode Island is illegal. States like Idaho require low-speed vehicles to be registered and fully insured. Check your local ordinances before you venture out to avoid a citation.
Pro Tip: Ever wandered Are City Golf Courses Considered Public Land? We took a closer look to find out!
#1 Polaris GEM E2
This top-of-the-line street legal golf cart has a starting price of around $12,000. The vehicle can be fully customized for additional costs. You can upgrade to bigger wheels or add on bumpers. You can even get an optional cargo bag if you want some room for your stuff.
The electric vehicle can travel nearly 100 miles before recharging and has a top speed of 25 miles per hour. It has three-point seatbelts that can help you stay safe if an accident happens. The E2 comes standard with a windshield and headlights permitting it to be on most public roads.
Owners of this vehicle love the legroom it offers. They also love that the GEM can be fully customized easily on the company’s website. However, if you plan to shuttle more than two people around, you might look into another option.
#2 Club Car Villager 2+2
This four-seat golf car has two seats facing forward and two backward. It’s easy to shuttle up to four people in this vehicle. We love the durable, rust-proof frame and a high-quality windshield that come standard with the Club Car Villager.
The buggy has everything you need for a legal low-speed vehicle. It comes equipped with a horn, mirrors, and seatbelts. The Villager also includes a turn signal, headlights, and even a license plate holder. You can use the USB charging port to power your devices on the go, and when you reach your destination, recharge it using the onboard charger.
You can get this electric, street legal golf car up to 23 miles per hour. It can travel over 30 miles before you need to recharge it. Club Car won’t sell their vehicles directly to the consumer, so they have no set MSRP.
#3 Yamaha Drive 2 Quietech EFI
For nearly 40 years, Yamaha has been manufacturing motors in the U.S. They have become known for quality vehicles at affordable prices. Like the Club Car, you must purchase one of these carts from a retailer. The price may vary depending on which dealership you go to, so shop around to find a good deal.
The Drive 2 can seat four people, but the back seats ayou’dsy to fold down if you’d rather have cargo space. Ownsers say they love the sunroof and the array of colors available. It also has everything you need for a street legal golf car, like LED headlights.
Astoundingly, this gas-powered engine measures only one decibel louder than most electric carts. It has an impressive range of over 250 miles per tank and can book up to 19 miles per hour. While most lows speed vehicles can go faster, the Drive 2 Quietech will go much further.
#4 E-Z-GO Express S6
The E-Z-GO Express S6 has ample legroom and can seat up to six people. This should be your go-to if you want a cart with space for the whole family. You’ll find extra storage in the dashboard and under the floorboards. It has everything you need to be comfortable, from cupholders to USB ports.
More importantly, this vehicle has been designed with safety in mind. It comes with airbags and seatbelts. The E-Z-GO Express also uses an advanced steering system similar to a regular car to make driving a breeze. It travels up to 17 miles per hour and, depending on the options you select, can go over 200 miles before needing refueling.
You can get one of these buggies with a lithium battery for an MSRP of $17,269 or a gas-powered one for $14,919. At first glance, the price may seem steep, but all 6-seat golf carts tend to be a little pricey. However, few offer the amenities of the E-Z-GO Express.
#5 Star EV Sirius 2+2
The Sirius first hit the market in 2017 and quickly became one of the most popular low speed vehicles. Little has changed in recent years, making it a reliable selection. As the name suggests, the vehicle has two forward-facing and two rear-facing seats.
This cart has everything needed to be street-legal and then some. Jut like a car, the blinkers turn off when you’ve completed a turn. The Sirius has a reverse beeper and backup camera. Its bright lights, horn, and hydraulic brakes will keep you safe.
You can take this electric buggy over 60 miles with a full charge and has a top speed of 25 miles per hour. The MSRP for this vehicle sits at $15,295, and it usually comes with a four-year warranty. If you want a street legal golf car with the utmost reliability, you should take a sirius look at the Star EV Sirius 2+2.
Hit the Road in Your Street Legal Golf Car
Golf carts can be quite the investment. They can make a trip around the neighborhood fast and easy, and they’re useful to haul around while you’re RVing. But it’s important to pick the one that best suits your needs. Low-speed vehicles come in all different sizes, drive various speeds, and may use gas or electricity.
Whatever features you choose, we hope you’ll be happy and safe in your new street legal golf car!
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