CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As the weather gets nicer in the Carolinas, we're going to see more cyclists, scooters and even golf carts out and about.
But when it comes to golf carts on public streets, there's a lot of confusion over who can drive them and where. A VERIFY viewer sent the following question to WCNC Charlotte after noticing several golf carts being by driven in her neighborhood:
"There are several neighbors in my neighborhood who use golf carts to drive around the neighborhood, as well as occasionally on main roads (e.g., Pecan Ave, Commonwealth Ave). Usually, it's an adult driving, but I have seen young kids also driving (cart full of people), and once, I saw an infant car seat on the front seat of the cart while the car was being driven by an adult. All of this seems very unsafe at the least. Can you verify if any of this is legal?"
OUR SOURCES
THE FIRST QUESTION
Can you drive golf carts on public roads?
THE ANSWER
Yes, golf carts are allowed on roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or less, as long as they're equipped with necessary safety equipment.
WHAT WE FOUND
According to North Carolina law, a low-speed vehicle may only be operated where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less. These vehicles should be able to go 20-25 mph.
Golf carts must have headlights, turn signals, a vehicle identification number (VIN), seat belts and rearview mirrors to drive on public roads.
THE NEXT QUESTION
Do you need a license to drive a golf cart?
THE ANSWER
Yes. According to the law, the driver must have a state-issued driver's license. Therefore, children under 16 or anyone who isn't licensed can't legally drive a golf cart on public roads in North Carolina.
THE QUESTION
Does your golf cart need to be registered with the DMV?
THE ANSWER
Yes, golf carts must be registered with the DMV. Drivers also need to have valid insurance to drive on public roads.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte's Verify series is all about trying to make a difference in the Carolinas by making sure the community has the correct information. WCNC Charlotte outlines concisely what we know and what we don't know. Sometimes the answer can be surprising. Watch previous stories where we verify social media claims in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.