Insurance 101 for Street-Legal Golf Carts in Florida
What Every Golf Cart Owner Needs to Know
Street-legal golf carts are becoming a popular mode of transportation across Florida — and for good reason. They’re eco-friendly, fun to drive, and perfect for beachside living. But while cruising your neighborhood or running errands in a golf cart may feel casual, insurance for your cart is serious business.
If your golf cart is registered for road use, it’s no longer just a recreational vehicle — it’s considered a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) under Florida law. That means insurance isn’t just smart — it’s required. Here’s what you need to know to stay covered and protected on the road.
What Qualifies as a Street-Legal Golf Cart in Florida?
Before we get into insurance, let’s make sure your ride qualifies. In Florida, a golf cart becomes street legal when it’s upgraded to meet LSV requirements, including:
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Headlights, taillights, and brake lights
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Turn signals and reflectors
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Rearview mirrors
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Windshield
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Horn
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Seatbelts
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A valid VIN number
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Registration and a license plate
Once these are installed and your cart is registered with the DMV, you’re required to carry insurance just like any other vehicle on the road.
Types of Insurance Coverage for Street-Legal Golf Carts
When it comes to insuring your cart, here are the main types of coverage to consider:
Liability Insurance (Required)
Liability insurance is mandatory in Florida for LSVs. It covers:
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Bodily injury to others if you’re at fault in an accident
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Property damage to other vehicles or structures
Collision Coverage
This pays for damage to your own cart if you’re involved in an accident, whether it’s your fault or not.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision-related incidents like theft, fire, vandalism, or damage from Florida’s unpredictable weather.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Helps protect you if someone hits you and they don’t have enough insurance to cover the damage.
Medical Payments Coverage
Pays for medical expenses for you or your passengers, regardless of who’s at fault.
How Much Does Insurance for a Street-Legal Golf Cart Cost?
Premiums vary depending on factors like:
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The value and customization of your cart
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Where you live (coastal areas may cost more)
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Your driving history
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The amount of coverage you choose
In general, Florida golf cart insurance for street-legal models can range from $100 to $400 per year — often much cheaper than car insurance.
Pro Tip: Bundle to Save
Many insurers will offer discounts if you bundle your golf cart insurance with your home or auto policy. It’s worth asking about multi-policy discounts.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Coverage
A street-legal golf cart may not look like a car, but it’s treated like one on Florida roads. Without proper insurance, you could be looking at hefty fines — or worse, personal liability if you’re in an accident. Protect your investment, your finances, and your peace of mind by making sure your cart is properly insured.
Need help getting your cart street-legal or choosing the right insurance?
At The Cart Guys, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — from choosing the perfect ride to making sure it’s road-ready and fully protected.
