Golf Carts Allowed on Kentucky Roads Must be Insured

Kentucky golfers and anyone who owns a golf cart within five-miles of a golf course entrance have the go-ahead to putter around on public roadways, per recently signed legislation.

In a measure that may also be of interest to those concerned about rising fuel costs, Gov. Steve Beshear’s signature gives local governments the option to adopt an ordinance to authorize and regulate golf cart drivers on public roads.

Certain conditions are tied to the law including certified inspection of carts under county sheriff designation through the Department of Vehicle Regulation. Drivers must display a sticker or permit that identifies that the golf cart is allowed to operate on specific roadways — and within the specified perimeters.

Certified golf cart drivers may only drive on roads where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or less. The law (Senate Bill 93) will require operators to have a valid operator’s license in his or her possession and hours of operation are restricted to after sunrise and before sunset.

While the golf cart does not meet the state’s definition of a motor vehicle, they must be insured in compliance with Kentucky statutes and proof of insurance must be inside the golf cart at all times.
Golf carts will be exempt from title requirements, vehicle registration requirements and emissions compliance certificates, but must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem.

Topics Kentucky