Golf Cart Safety Tips for New Drivers & Kids

Everything You Need to Know Before Handing Over the Keys

Golf carts and LSVs (Low-Speed Vehicles) are more popular than ever—not just on the golf course, but in neighborhoods, resort towns, and beach communities. But while they may seem like simple, slow-moving vehicles, they still demand care, awareness, and responsibility—especially when kids or new drivers are behind the wheel.

Here are essential safety tips every new driver (and their parents) should know before taking off on their first ride.

✅ 1. Know the Age Requirements

Most local laws require LSV drivers to have a valid driver’s license.
Some neighborhoods may allow younger drivers to operate standard golf carts under adult supervision, but it’s critical to:

• Check local ordinances
• Understand insurance implications
• Enforce your own safety rules at home

Tip: Even if local rules are lenient, it’s safest to restrict driving to teens who understand road safety and vehicle handling.

🛑 2. Limit Passengers (and Keep Them Seated!)

Golf carts aren’t meant to be packed like clown cars.

• Never allow riders to stand, hang off the back, or sit on laps.
• Make sure all passengers have a designated seat.
• Use seat belts if available—especially in street-legal LSVs.

🛣️ 3. Teach Cart Etiquette and Road Awareness

Golf carts often share space with pedestrians, cyclists, and full-size vehicles. First-time drivers should:

• Yield to pedestrians
• Use turn signals or hand signals
• Watch for blind corners
• Drive defensively, not aggressively
• Always slow down at intersections or blind driveways

🚫 4. Avoid Distractions

This might sound obvious, but distractions in a golf cart can be just as dangerous as in a car.

Remind new drivers:

• No texting or phone use while driving
• Keep music at a reasonable volume
• Never let passengers grab the wheel, distract or interfere with driving

🌧️ 5. Don’t Drive in Bad Weather or at Night (Unless Equipped)

Rain, fog, and darkness can all reduce visibility and traction. Unless your LSV is:

• Sufficiently enclosed
• Equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and wipers

…it’s best to park it during poor weather or night time.

🧠 6. Treat It Like a Real Vehicle

Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s a toy. Teach kids and teens to treat your LSV or golf cart with the same care as a car:

• Perform pre-drive checks (tires, battery, brakes)
• Obey speed limits
• Never drink or vape while driving
• Always park on level surfaces with the brake set

🛠️ Bonus Tip: Schedule a Safety Overview Walkthrough

Before giving someone the keys, walk them through:

• How to start and stop the vehicle
• Where the brake and throttle are located
• How to reverse safely
• What to do in case of an emergency (like a dead battery or accident)

🏁 Final Thought: Set a Great Example

Kids watch adults. When you model safe, respectful driving, they’ll be more likely to follow suit. The goal isn’t just to avoid accidents—it’s to build habits that will last a lifetime.

Want more safety tips or a printable checklist? Contact us or visit our showroom for a free guide to new driver safety in your LSV!