When you’re part of the world of golf carts, you may have heard the term “low-speed vehicle” before, or perhaps you’ve heard of a golf cart referred to as an “LSV.” Low-speed vehicles are a variation on golf carts, with features designed to make them street-legal. You can typically alter a golf cart to make it an LSV, but it’s important to understand what needs modification.

Dever Golf Car Sales, with locations in Lexington and Louisville, is your Kentucky golf cart dealer. Keep reading to learn more about low-speed vehicles and how they differ from golf carts. 

Golf Carts vs. LSVs

Golf carts are designed to be used recreationally and primarily on golf courses. Their top speeds are usually no higher than 20 miles per hour. Golf carts are very affordable and make golfing more enjoyable by transporting clubs and players around a course. Some people do alter golf carts to use them on campuses and in neighborhoods or at the beach.

Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are designed to be street-legal, meaning that they can be driven on public roads. Maximum speeds are around 25 miles per hour for these vehicles, making it legal to drive them on any road with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour, but not any higher. Low-speed vehicles are altered to make them compliant with local vehicle laws, and this can make them more costly.

Required Features of LSVs

Low-speed vehicles need to have certain features to make them legal on public roads. These features include: 

  • Headlights
  • Brake lights
  • Road tires
  • Parking brakes
  • Rearview mirrors
  • Seatbelts
  • Horn
  • Turn signals
  • Automotive safety windshield glass
  • Windshield wipers
  • A vehicle identification number (VIN)

Legally Driving an LSV

In order to drive an LSV, the operator must have a valid driver’s license. This is because the vehicle is being used similarly to a car, so children and teens who don’t have a license can’t drive it. LSVs also need to be registered and insured, although coverages vary by state. A good policy for an LSV usually has property damage liability and personal injury protection.

How to Make an LSV Street-Legal

To make your LSV street-legal, you have to register it with the local DMV and apply for both registration and a title. Most states require you to have a manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or the prior owner’s Certificate of Title. Then, you need to get sufficient insurance to be legally compliant. You should also have your LSV inspected. If the LSV is gas, it needs an emissions test.

Looking to purchase a golf cart to make into a low-speed vehicle? Visit us at one of our Kentucky dealerships to check out our wide stock of new and used golf carts for sale. Dever Golf Car Sales proudly serves Lexington and Louisville, KY.