Golf Cart Laws in Texas (2026): Your Complete Compliance Guide
Most people don’t realize how strict Texas golf cart laws actually are. You might think you can just hop in your cart and drive around town. But honestly, there are specific rules you need to follow.
The good news? If you understand the rules, you’re golden. Golf carts are legal on Texas roads—but only in certain situations and with the right setup. Let’s break down exactly what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.
What Is a Golf Cart (And Why Does It Matter)?
Here’s where things get a little technical, but stick with me. In Texas, a golf cart has a specific legal definition. It’s a vehicle designed mainly for transporting people to and from a golf course. It maxes out at around 20-25 mph.
Why does this definition matter? Pretty straightforward—it determines where you can legally drive it. A golf cart isn’t the same as a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV). An NEV is faster, has more safety features, and follows different rules. We’ll get into that later.
For now, just remember this: Texas law treats golf carts differently than regular cars. They’re more restricted, but they also require less paperwork in some ways.
Where You Can Actually Drive Your Golf Cart
Not sure where you’re allowed to drive your cart? This is probably the most important part. You can’t just take it anywhere you want.
The Three Legal Scenarios
Your golf cart can be on public roads in three main situations. First, you can drive it in a master-planned community that allows them. These are neighborhoods with HOA rules that permit golf cart use. Second, you can drive on public beaches in certain Texas towns that approve it. Third, and this is the most common one, you can drive on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or lower.
Wait, it gets more specific. If you’re using it to travel to and from a golf course, you’re limited to a two-mile radius from where the cart is usually parked. And you can only drive during daytime hours. You can’t take a midnight joy ride, unfortunately.
The Speed Limit Rule (This One’s Important)
Here’s where it gets clear. Your golf cart can only be driven on roads posted at 35 mph or less. That’s the state law. But hold on—you can legally cross a road with a higher speed limit, like at an intersection. You just can’t drive down a 45 mph road in your cart.
This rule might seem restrictive, but it makes sense for safety. Golf carts move slowly. Faster roads are dangerous for them.
Local Rules Can Change Everything
Here’s something that catches people off guard. Your city or county might have different rules than the state. Some cities allow golf carts on all their residential streets. Others are stricter.
This is why you absolutely need to check your local ordinances. What’s legal in League City might not be legal in your town. Contact your city or county to find out. Seriously—don’t assume you know the rules. This step takes five minutes and could save you a ticket.
The Equipment Your Cart Needs
Thinking about taking your golf cart on the road? Not so fast. Your cart needs specific safety equipment first. This is non-negotiable.
Your golf cart must have:
Headlights for visibility. Taillights so people see you from behind. Reflectors to make you visible at night. A parking brake that actually works. A rearview mirror so you can see what’s coming behind you.
If your cart is missing any of these, it’s not street-legal. Period. These aren’t expensive additions—you can add them for a few hundred dollars. But they’re required.
The Slow-Moving Vehicle Emblem
Golf carts that travel at 25 mph or less also need a slow-moving vehicle emblem. It’s that orange and red triangle you see on farm equipment. It tells other drivers, “Hey, I’m slow. Be patient.”
The Golf Cart License Plate
Okay, here’s good news. You don’t have to title or register your golf cart the way you do a regular car. But you do need a license plate.
It’s called a golf cart license plate, and you get it from your county tax assessor-collector’s office. The whole process is straightforward. You’ll bring proof of ownership (usually a manufacturer’s certificate or receipt), complete an application, and pay a small fee. The fee is typically around ten dollars, and here’s the best part—the plate never expires.
That’s different from a regular car license plate. You get it once and you’re done. No annual renewals.
The Driver’s License Requirement
Let’s talk about who can actually drive this thing. You need a valid driver’s license. This might seem obvious, but here’s the thing—it matters legally.
Some people think unlicensed minors can drive a golf cart if they’re just traveling through a neighborhood. Nope. Texas law is clear. You must be a licensed driver to operate a golf cart on public roads. Even in private neighborhoods that allow carts, if it’s technically a public road, you need a valid driver’s license.
This is one rule people get wrong all the time. Teenagers without licenses can’t drive the family golf cart to school, period. A learner’s permit? Not sufficient. You need a full driver’s license.
Insurance Requirements
Here’s where it gets interesting. Texas doesn’t require you to insure your golf cart through the state just to get a license plate. Golf carts don’t get titled like regular vehicles, so they don’t require proof of insurance the same way.
But—and this is a big but—many cities and counties do require liability insurance as part of their local ordinances. Some require it, some don’t. And honestly? It’s just smart business to have it anyway.
Think about it. If you hit someone’s car or injure someone, that’s on you. Liability insurance protects you financially. Check your local rules, but we strongly recommend getting coverage. It typically costs less than fifty dollars a year, and it could save you thousands.
What You’re Not Allowed to Do
Wondering what’ll get you in trouble? Here are the big ones.
You can’t drive on sidewalks, pedestrian walkways, jogging paths, or park trails. Ever. Those spaces are for people on foot. Your golf cart doesn’t belong there, even if it’s convenient.
You can’t drive your cart at night. Well, technically you can if your cart has lights, but most golf carts don’t qualify. Stick to daytime only. Period.
You can’t exceed the speed limits set by Texas law (35 mph) or your local city (sometimes lower). You can’t cross intersections on roads with higher speed limits unless there’s a designated crossing. And you definitely can’t let unlicensed drivers operate it on public roads.
Safety Rules About Passengers
This one surprises parents. You can’t have kids sitting in anyone’s lap while the cart is moving. Everyone needs their own seat. This is a real law, not a suggestion.
If kids are under eight years old, they must be restrained with a safety belt. Kids under six must be in a safety seat or properly restrained. These rules exist because golf cart accidents can cause serious injuries.
In one case that made headlines in Texas, a golf cart accident caused a spinal injury to a passenger. These lightweight vehicles don’t protect passengers like cars do. That’s why the safety rules exist.
Penalties and What Happens If You Break the Law
Okay, so what happens if you get caught breaking these laws? Let’s be real about the consequences.
If you operate a golf cart without a license plate, you’re violating Texas law. You could face a traffic ticket and potential fines. The exact fine varies by city, but expect something meaningful—likely in the $100 to $300 range for a first offense.
Driving without a valid driver’s license is treated the same whether you’re in a golf cart or a car. That’s a more serious violation. You could face penalties including fines, points on your license, and potentially jail time if it’s your second or third offense. This is no joke.
Operating without the required safety equipment (lights, mirrors, reflectors) also gets you a ticket. Each missing piece is technically a separate violation. So if you’re missing headlights AND reflectors, that’s two violations, not one.
The Real Story About Violations
Here’s something that actually happened. A person drove a golf cart on a 40 mph road at dusk without headlights and without a license plate. They got hit by an SUV. The passenger was injured seriously. In court, the golf cart operator faced multiple violations and was found liable for the accident. The injured passenger won a substantial settlement.
The point? These laws aren’t arbitrary. They exist because of accidents. Following them isn’t just about avoiding a ticket—it’s about protecting yourself and others.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
Master-Planned Communities
If you live in a master-planned community with HOA approval, your golf cart rules might be more relaxed. Some communities allow carts on more streets and at different times. But—and this matters—your community still requires a golf cart license plate. Don’t assume that living in a special community means you can skip that step.
Private Property
On private property, you have much more freedom. Want to drive your golf cart around your ranch or family property? No problem. No license required. No safety equipment required. This is where golf carts are most useful.
Beach Communities
Some Texas beach towns allow golf carts on certain beach roads. It’s actually pretty common in smaller coastal areas. But each beach town has different rules. If you’re near the coast, check with your local city about beach golf cart regulations.
How to Get Your Golf Cart Street-Legal
Alright, let’s get practical. Here’s what you need to do step by step.
Step 1: Check Your Local Ordinances
First, contact your city or county. Ask specifically: “Are golf carts legal in my area?” Get the answer in writing if possible. This takes one phone call. Do it.
Step 2: Install Safety Equipment
Next, make sure your cart has all required equipment. Headlights, taillights, reflectors, parking brake, and mirror. If you need to add any of these, buy a kit online or visit a golf cart dealer. Most kits run $200-$500 depending on quality.
Step 3: Get Your License Plate
Head to your county tax assessor-collector’s office. Bring proof of ownership (your purchase receipt or manufacturer’s certificate). Fill out the application form. Pay the fee (usually around ten dollars). Done. You’ll get your golf cart license plate.
Step 4: Get Liability Insurance
Contact an insurance agent and ask about golf cart liability coverage. Shop around for the best price. You might be surprised how affordable it is.
Step 5: Make Sure Your Driver’s License Is Valid
This one’s easy. Just make sure you or whoever’s driving has a current, valid driver’s license. That’s it.
That’s honestly all you need. Five steps. None of them are complicated.
Confused About the Difference Between Golf Carts and NEVs?
This trips people up constantly. Let me clear it up.
A golf cart is what you know—small, open, designed for golf courses. Max speed around 25 mph. Limited use on public roads. Needs a golf cart license plate.
A Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) is basically a “upgraded” golf cart. It’s larger, goes up to 35 mph, and meets federal safety standards. It has a VIN (vehicle identification number) like a regular car.
Here’s the important part: NEVs are registered and titled like regular vehicles. They need insurance like regular vehicles. But they can be used on roads up to 35 mph statewide, which is more freedom than a golf cart.
If you want that extra freedom and don’t mind the extra paperwork, an NEV might be worth it. But for most people, a golf cart with a license plate is perfectly fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my teenager drive our golf cart on public roads?
No, not unless they have a valid driver’s license. Not a permit. A full license. This applies even in neighborhoods that allow golf carts.
What’s the fine for driving without a golf cart license plate?
It varies by city, but expect $100-$300 for a first offense. Repeat offenses typically increase the penalty.
Can I use my golf cart at night?
Only if your cart is equipped with proper lights and meets specific safety standards. Most golf carts aren’t equipped for this. Safe bet? Stick to daytime only.
Do I need both a license plate AND insurance?
The state doesn’t require insurance just to get a license plate. But many cities do require it as part of their local ordinance. Check your local rules. Either way, having insurance is smart.
Can I drive my golf cart on the freeway to get to another town?
Absolutely not. Freeways are off-limits. Golf carts only belong on roads with 35 mph or lower speed limits.
What if my local city doesn’t have golf cart ordinances?
Then golf carts are likely not legal on public roads in your area. You can use them on private property and golf courses, but not public streets. Check with your city to be sure.
If my golf cart is damaged in an accident, who pays?
If the other driver caused the accident, their insurance typically covers it. If you caused it and you don’t have insurance, that’s your responsibility. This is another reason to get liability coverage.
Are there different rules for electric versus gas golf carts?
Not really. Texas treats both the same. The same safety equipment requirements apply. Same license plate requirement. Same driver’s license requirement.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the bottom line: Golf cart laws in Texas are specific and they matter. They exist because golf carts are involved in thousands of accidents every year. Following the rules keeps you safe, keeps others safe, and keeps you out of legal trouble.
The rules aren’t complicated. You need a license plate (easy to get). You need a valid driver’s license (you already have that, probably). You need the basic safety equipment (affordable to install). You need to stay on roads under 35 mph and drive during daylight (common sense). And you need to check your local ordinances (one phone call).
That’s it. Do those things and you’re solid. Skip them and you’re taking unnecessary risks—both legally and physically.
Now you know the basics. Stay informed, follow the rules, and enjoy your golf cart safely. When in doubt, contact your local city or county. They’re there to help.
References
State Laws & Official Resources:
- Texas Transportation Code Chapter 551 – Golf Cart Regulations
- Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Official State Resource
- Texas Attorney General’s Office – Opinion on Driver’s License Requirements
Municipal Resources (Examples):
- City of League City – Golf Cart Regulations: leaguecitytx.gov/1626/Golf-Cart-Regulations
- City of Aubrey – Golf Cart Requirements: aubreytx.gov/375/Golf-Cart-Regulations
Safety & Legal Information:
- Texas Golf Cart Laws (2025) – Street Legal Requirements: golfcartsearch.com
- Golf Cart Safety Information – American Journal of Preventive Medicine (15,000+ annual injuries)
- Thompson Law Injury Lawyers – Texas Golf Cart Laws and Accident Information
Additional Authoritative Sources:
- Tara Electric Vehicles – Comprehensive Texas Golf Cart Laws Guide
- Kandi America – Navigating Texas Golf Cart Laws
- Golf Cart Resource – Texas Golf Cart and Low-Speed Vehicle Laws
This article contains general information about Texas golf cart laws. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by city and county. Always verify current regulations with your local municipality before operating a golf cart on public roads. For specific legal questions, consult with a Texas attorney.