Street-Legal Electric Golf Cart Checklist: 12 Features You Must Have for LSV Compliance

Meta description: Confused by DOT, NHTSA and local LSV rules? Print this one-page checklist before you spec your next street-legal electric golf cart.

1. 17-digit VIN plate
2. 25 km/h (15 mph) top speed on level ground—programmable in controller
3. 4-wheel hydraulic brakes + parking brake
4. DOT windshield & AS-1 glazing mark
5. AS-5 compliant tempered glass or polycarbonate roof
6. Seat-belts for each seating position (Type 1 or 2)
7. DOT headlamps 24–54″ height, high/low beam
8. Taillamps, stop lamps, turn signals, reflex reflectors
9. Side-impact 5 mph bumpers OR integrated frame rails
10. Rear-view mirror (inside) + two side mirrors
11. Speedometer & state-of-charge meter visible to driver
12. VIN-verified liability insurance card holder

Pro tip: Order your electric golf cart “LSV package” factory-installed; retrofit costs average $1 400 more and void some frame warranties.