South Carolina’s New Golf Cart Law: What You Need to Know Before You Drive

Erin Bailey Law
Jun 11, 2025
3 min read

Each year, South Carolina’s legislative session brings legal changes that affect everyday people across the state. In this ongoing series, criminal defense lawyer Erin Bailey breaks down what’s new, what it means, and how it could impact you.

Whether you live in South Carolina or are just visiting us here in the lowcountry, chances are you’ve either driven a golf cart - or shared the road with one. They’re a common sight in beach towns, resort communities, and gated neighborhoods across the state.

But until now, the law around golf cart use has been confusing. Rules varied depending on where you were, and even law enforcement sometimes struggled to enforce them consistently.

In 2025, the South Carolina legislature repealed the old law and replaced it with something new: a more streamlined, statewide set of rules for how and where golf carts can be used.

Here’s what changed - and what every golf cart driver needs to know.

Who can drive a golf cart in South Carolina?

To legally drive a golf cart on public roads in South Carolina, the driver must:

Be at least 16 years old
Have a valid driver’s license
Carry their license, proof of insurance, and golf cart registration while operating the vehicle

What about registration?

Golf carts must be registered with the South Carolina DMV. The registration costs $5 and lasts for five years. Once registered, you’ll receive a decal that must be displayed on the cart.

Where and when are golf carts allowed?

The new law says golf carts can only be driven:

During daylight hours
Within four miles of the registered address (or the gate of a gated community)
On secondary roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or lower
Across intersections where the crossing road is also 35 mph or lower

These rules apply whether you live here year-round or are just visiting for the week.

New rule: seatbelts for kids

One of the most important updates in the new law is a safety requirement for young passengers. Any child under the age of 12 must be secured with a seatbelt while riding on a golf cart. This applies no matter where you’re driving.

Can local towns make their own rules?

Yes, and they probably will. The new law gives local governments the option to:

Allow golf carts to operate at night (if they’re equipped with headlights and taillights)
Define specific hours or zones where golf carts can operate
Create dedicated golf cart paths, with approval from the Department of Transportation

As of now, most municipalities haven’t passed new ordinances - but that could change, especially in coastal areas like Charleston, Folly Beach, or Hilton Head.

Why this matters

This updated law is designed to bring more consistency - and more safety - to how golf carts are used in South Carolina. It aims to clear up confusion, establishes minimum requirements for drivers, and adds protections for kids.

If you’re planning to use a golf cart during your next beach trip, or you’re a local who uses one to get around town, make sure you know the rules before you head out.