Street Legal & LSV
Street-Legal Golf Cart Equipment Checklist
A practical checklist of the equipment a street-legal golf cart needs, the paperwork to keep with it, and the safety checks to run before each season.
Street Legal & LSV
How to Register and Insure a Street-Legal Golf Cart
The documents you need, the step-by-step DMV process and the insurance options for registering a street-legal golf cart (LSV).
Golf Carts Nation TeamUpdated · 1 min read
Registering a low-speed vehicle is a lot like registering a car, with fewer surprises once you know the steps. Exact forms and fees depend on your state, so use this as your roadmap and confirm the details with your DMV.
Documents you will need
| Document | Where it comes from |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) | From the dealer when you buy a new cart |
| Bill of sale | From the dealer |
| Proof of insurance | From your insurer |
| Driver's license and ID | Your own |
| Title and registration application | Your state DMV |
| VIN check or inspection form (some states) | Your DMV or an approved inspector |
How to register an LSV, step by step
- Confirm it is an LSV. Check for the 17-digit VIN and the manufacturer's certification. See the equipment checklist.
- Get insurance first. Most states require liability coverage before they will register a motor vehicle.
- Gather your documents. MCO, bill of sale, ID and insurance proof.
- Apply at your DMV. Submit the title and registration application and pay the fees and any sales tax.
- Complete any inspection. Some states require a VIN check or safety inspection.
- Fit your plate. Carry your registration and insurance card whenever you drive.
Insuring a street-legal golf cart
Because an LSV is a motor vehicle, it is usually insured like one. Ask your insurer about:
- Liability: required in most states; covers damage or injury you cause to others.
- Collision: repairs to your cart after an accident.
- Comprehensive: theft, weather and other damage.
- Uninsured motorist and medical payments: optional in many states.
A regular homeowner's policy often does not cover a cart driven on public roads, so get a policy written for an LSV.
What it costs
Plan for sales tax, title and registration fees, plates and your insurance premium. These vary by state. For the full budget, including the cart and delivery, see how much a golf cart costs.
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Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to register a golf cart?
For a new street-legal golf cart (LSV), usually the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, your ID and the DMV application. Some states also need a VIN check.
Do I need insurance for a street-legal golf cart?
Yes, in most states. An LSV is a motor vehicle, so liability insurance is normally required before registration.
Can I register a regular golf cart?
A regular golf cart without LSV equipment and a 17-digit VIN usually cannot be registered as a motor vehicle. Some states have their own conversion process.
Does my homeowner's insurance cover a golf cart?
Often not on public roads. Get a policy written for an LSV and confirm what is covered.
Do I need a driver's license to drive an LSV?
Yes. LSV drivers need a valid driver's license.
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