Under federal rules, an LSV is a four-wheeled vehicle that can travel above 20 and up to 25 mph and has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) under 3,000 pounds. FMVSS 500 specifies equipment including lights, reflectors, mirrors, a parking brake, a windshield meeting FMVSS 205, seat belts, a VIN, rear-visibility compliance and an alert sound. States decide registration, insurance and which roads LSVs may use. A standard golf cart under 20 mph is regulated by state and local law.
Many owners want to drive their carts around the neighborhood. Federal rules define an LSV; your state decides where and how it can drive.
FMVSS 500 basics
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Speed | Over 20 mph and not more than 25 mph |
| Weight | Gross vehicle weight rating under 3,000 lb |
| Wheels | Four |
Required equipment
| Equipment |
|---|
| Headlamps |
| Front and rear turn signals |
| Tail lamps and stop lamps |
| Red reflex reflectors |
| Driver’s side exterior mirror, plus a passenger side or interior mirror |
| Parking brake |
| Windshield that conforms to FMVSS No. 205 glazing requirements |
| Vehicle identification number |
| Seat belt at each designated seat |
| Rear visibility requirements under FMVSS No. 111 |
| Alert sound required by FMVSS No. 141 |
State rules
States set registration, titling, insurance, driver licensing and which roads LSVs may use. Some allow roads posted up to 35 mph; routes and conditions vary, and some states require inspections. Check your state DMV before buying parts.
Parts
Buy light kits that meet the requirements for your cart and state, including a horn where required. Choose a tire and wheel combination specified for your cart and confirm any public-road requirements with your state; see tire sizes.
Related: Golf Cart Enclosures, Windshields and Rear Seats.
Browse lights, safety and parts.
Related reading
Common questions
What is the difference between a golf cart and an LSV?
Federally, an LSV goes over 20 and up to 25 mph and must meet FMVSS 500 equipment rules. Golf carts are slower and regulated by states and localities.
Can I make my golf cart street legal with a light kit?
Lights are only part of it. LSV status needs all required equipment, and states have their own registration and inspection rules.
What roads can LSVs drive on?
Some states allow roads posted up to 35 mph, but road eligibility and conditions vary. Check your state and local rules.
Do LSVs need seat belts?
Yes. FMVSS 500 requires a seat belt at each designated seating position.