Are a Low Speed Vehicle and a Golf Cart Different?

The simplified answer is yes.  We’ll start with the basic disclaimer that rules vary by location.  Next, let’s determine what type of vehicle you have:

• A street legal LSV – registered with the DMV, or similar entity that registers vehicles.  Some people refer to this as having it “tagged”.  These vehicles generally have a 17-digit VIN and a top speed of 25mph.  In some areas, a county or city office may be in charge of registration. In some states, you may be required to purchase specific coverage for your LSV, such as in Florida.

• A traditional golf cart – these vehicles generally do not require license plates or “tags” and is intended for usage off public roads, such as on a golf course or perhaps a marina in an area separated from public streets.

• A street legal golf cart – these vehicles generally have a maximum of 19 mph and are intended to be used off public roads, such as on a golf course or in a gated community with private roads, but when approved and licensed correctly, they may be used on certain public roads.

• A custom cart – after the cart is completed, the DMV can assist in determine the appropriate usage and we can assist with the insurance quote. Sometimes, these are labeled as special construction or another with another state specific title.

The type of insurance that you purchase depends on the type of cart that you have.  If you have a golf cart, we can assist you in finding insurance for golf carts and their traditional usage.  If you have an LSV, we can help find you insurance that allows for street legal usage.  In some states, their are different insurance requirements for LSVs as opposed to golf carts.  Stratum Insurance Agency sells LSV and Golf Cart Insurance in over 30 states, and requesting a quote is simple.

It is important that you purchase the right type of policy, because many “golf cart” policies do not allow for the usage of street-legal LSVs.  Also, your state may have special requirements for insurance.

The team at Stratum Insurance Agency LLC knows the difference between a golf cart and LSV — people are often surprised by this.  They can assist you in finding the appropriate vehicle for the type of cart that you have.  Same day ID card are available in most states.