Summer is the perfect time to beat the heat and hit the street for a cool ride in your new custom cart. But before you take that leisurely drive through town, make sure your cart is street legal. At The Cart Source, we’re here to guide you through what makes a cart street legal and to offer tips for driving safely in our area, including Auburn, Opelika and Lake Martin.
What makes a cart street legal in Alabama?
In Alabama, standard golf carts cannot be driven on public streets. To be street legal, a cart must be converted into a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV). LSVs are street-legal vehicles that comply with federal safety regulations.
These include having headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, reflex reflectors, a windshield made of safety glass, mirrors, seat belts for every seat, a parking brake and a 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Did you know? The Cart Source can help you design a custom LSV or find a sleek new model that meets all these basic requirements and more. We offer vehicles that are compliant, stylish and comfortable for your rides around town.
Checklist of requirements
To ensure your cart complies with local laws, here’s a quick checklist:
- Headlights, Taillights and Brake Lights: Visibility is key, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
- Front and Rear Turn Signals: Indicate your turns clearly to other drivers.
- Reflectors: Essential for safety, with red reflectors on each side and one on the rear.
- Safety Glass Windshield: Protects against debris and the elements.
- Rearview Mirrors: Both driver-side and passenger-side mirrors are necessary for a full view of your surroundings.
- Seat Belts and Parking Brake: Ensure safety for all passengers.
- VIN: A unique 17-digit number for vehicle identification.
By meeting these requirements, you can safely and legally navigate public roads in your LSV.
Driving Your Cart Through Town
However, driving an LSV in Auburn, Opelika and around Lake Martin requires adherence to local rules. In Auburn, carts must be registered with the DMV, and you need liability insurance and a valid driver’s license. Unlicensed carts are banned from city streets, sidewalks and paths.
In Opelika, LSVs are allowed on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less and must be registered, insured and operated by a licensed driver.
Around Lake Martin, which spans three counties, state laws apply to public roads. LSVs must be tagged, insured and driven by a licensed driver. Major highways are off-limits, but private or gated neighborhoods may have their own rules.
Whether you’re cruising through Auburn or exploring the scenic views around Lake Martin, understanding what makes a cart street legal is essential for a hassle-free experience.
Summary
Now that you know more about what makes a cart street legal, it’s the perfect time to invest in one of your own. From meeting specific safety standards to complying with local laws, we’re committed to helping you find or customize the perfect LSV that meets these requirements, ensuring your ride is legal, enjoyable and safe. Check out our blogs for additional tips, uses and more.