In response to frequent inquiries and widespread confusion regarding the legal operation of golf carts on roadways, the Collierville Police Department has provided clarification based on Tennessee state law.
Tennessee law categorizes three types of vehicles related to this issue:
- Traditional Golf Cart: Designed for use on golf courses, with a top speed of 20 mph.
- Low Speed Vehicle (LSV): A four-wheeled electric vehicle, excluding traditional golf carts, with a top speed between 20 and 25 mph.
- Medium Speed Vehicle (MSV): A four-wheeled electric or gasoline-powered vehicle, excluding traditional golf carts, with a top speed between 30 and 35 mph.
Legal Requirements for Golf Carts on Roads
Traditional Golf Carts are not street legal under Tennessee state law unless they are modified to meet the requirements for LSVs or MSVs and comply with federal safety standards. If a golf cart is modified for on-road use, it no longer qualifies as a traditional golf cart and can be registered as an LSV or MSV, provided all legal and safety standards are met.
Registration Process
To register an LSV or MSV, owners must submit the following to their local county clerk’s office:
- Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) as proof of compliance with statutory requirements.
- Traditional vehicle registration documentation.
Those modifying traditional golf carts must also submit a completed low or medium speed vehicle affidavit, certifying that the vehicle meets legal standards. The affidavits can be found at:
Street Legal Requirements for LSVs and MSVs
For an LSV or MSV to be street legal, it must have:
- Headlamps
- Stop lamps
- Front and rear turn signals
- Tail lamps
- Reflex reflectors (one on each side near the rear and one on the rear)
- Parking brake
- One exterior mirror on the driver’s side and one additional mirror (either on the passenger side or interior)
- Windshield conforming to federal motor vehicle safety standards
- Seat belts at each seating position
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Registration and license plate
- Proof of insurance
- Licensed driver with a valid Class D license
LSVs may be operated on streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less, while MSVs may be operated on streets with a speed limit of 40 mph or less. Both types can cross streets with higher speed limits only at intersections. All traffic laws must be obeyed.
Local Ordinances and DUI Laws
Per Collierville ordinances, neither traditional golf carts nor LSVs/MSVs may be operated on sidewalks. Tennessee DUI laws apply to all motor vehicles, including traditional golf carts and LSVs/MSVs.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Ignoring these regulations can result in significant criminal penalties and civil liabilities. The Collierville Police Department urges residents to adhere to these laws to ensure safety and legal compliance.
For further information, residents can contact the Collierville Police Department or visit the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s website for detailed guidelines and forms.
