Yes and no — it depends.
A 13-year-old can drive a golf cart in some situations, such as on private property with a parent’s permission. But in many states, neighborhoods, and golf courses, minors must be 16 or older, and often must have a valid driver’s license.
Because there’s no single national rule, parents should check three things:
- State laws
- Local city or neighborhood rules
- Golf course or rental company policies
This guide explains all of these in simple, clear language.
What Determines the Legal Driving Age for Golf Carts?
Age limits change depending on:
1. The Type of Area
- Private property:
Usually no legal restrictions. Parents decide. - Neighborhood streets:
Many cities require drivers to be 16+.
Some allow younger teens, depending on local rules. - Public roads:
If the golf cart is modified as an LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle), states normally require:- A driver’s license
- Registration
- Insurance
2. Is the Golf Cart Street-Legal?
A regular cart on a golf course is not the same as an LSV/NEV with lights, mirrors, turn signals, and a VIN.
LSVs are treated like small cars → license required, so a 13-year-old cannot drive one on public roads.
3. Golf Course Rules
Most courses have stricter rules than state laws.
Many require:
- Age 16+
- A valid driver’s license
- Some require 18+ only
What Most States Allow (Simple Snapshot)
Across the United States:
- 12–15 years old:
Sometimes allowed on private property or low-speed neighborhood roads. - 16+ years old:
Most common requirement for public roads, LSVs, and rentals. - Golf courses:
Usually require 16–18+, not 13.
This variation is why the answer changes depending on location.
Can a 13-Year-Old Drive a Golf Cart in a Neighborhood?
Sometimes — but not everywhere.
Neighborhoods follow local city laws or HOA rules. Many neighborhoods require:
- A minimum age of 14–16
- A driving permit or license
- Daytime driving only
- Adult supervision for minors
Factors that affect the rule:
- Speed limit of the neighborhood (often must be under 25 mph)
- Traffic level
- HOA restrictions
- Safety concerns
What Parents Should Do
Before letting your 13-year-old drive around the neighborhood:
- Check city/municipal golf cart ordinances.
- Ask your HOA or community manager.
- Check insurance — some policies don’t cover minors.
- Make sure the cart has lights, reflectors, seatbelts, and mirrors.
- Supervise early driving sessions.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Golf Cart at a Golf Course?
Golf courses set their own age limits.
Typical rental rules:
- 16+ with a valid driver’s license
- Some require 18+
- Some allow 15-year-olds with a learner’s permit (rare)
A 13-year-old cannot legally rent a golf cart and is unlikely to be allowed to drive one during a game unless an adult is present and controlling the cart.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Golf Cart in California?
California has two categories:
1. Regular Golf Carts
On private property:
- No minimum age
- Parent/owner decides
On public roads:
- Allowed only in designated golf-cart communities
- Local areas may require 14–16+ minimum age
2. LSVs (Low-Speed Vehicles)
California treats LSVs like normal cars.
They require:
- Driver’s license (16+)
- Registration
- Insurance
- Safety equipment (lights, mirrors, windshield)
A 13-year-old cannot legally drive an LSV on public roads in California.
Can a 16-Year-Old Drive a Golf Cart?
Usually, yes.
A 16-year-old with a driver’s license can legally drive:
- Golf carts on private property
- Golf carts at many golf courses
- LSVs on public roads (in most states)
16-year-olds generally meet the minimum requirements everywhere.
Safety, Insurance & Liability: What Parents Must Know
Even if it’s legal, safety matters. Golf carts:
- Don’t have airbags
- Can flip easily
- Can reach high speeds
- Are often driven in busy or pedestrian-heavy areas
Safety Tips for Teens
- Always wear a seatbelt
- No sharp turns or speeding
- No extra passengers
- No driving at night without proper lights
- Keep both hands on the wheel
- Avoid driving near cars until experienced
Insurance Notes
- Homeowner’s insurance may not cover accidents
- Some policies exclude underage drivers
- Ask your insurer before letting a minor drive
Real-World Scenarios
Scenario A: Private Property
A 13-year-old can drive with parent supervision.
This is the most flexible and safest legal area.
Scenario B: Golf Course
Most courses do not allow a 13-year-old to drive unless:
- They are with an adult
- The adult is operating the cart
- The teen is only a passenger
Scenario C: Neighborhood Streets
Depends entirely on:
- City laws
- HOA rules
- Speed limits
- Whether the cart is street-legal
A 13-year-old may be allowed — but only in some areas.
Read also more related topics: Can You Bring Your Own Golf Cart to a Course?
How to Change Golf Cart Batteries?
Can You Use Car Batteries in a Golf Cart?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a 12-year-old drive a golf cart around the neighborhood?
Usually no, unless it’s private property or a rare city with relaxed rules.
Do golf carts need insurance?
If driven on public roads → yes.
On private property → varies, but recommended.
Are golf carts street legal?
Only if upgraded to LSV standards, which require a driver’s license.
Does HOA permission override state law?
No. State and city laws always come first.
Conclusion
A 13-year-old can drive a golf cart — but only in specific situations like private property or certain neighborhoods. For public roads and golf courses, the minimum age is usually 16 or 18.
Always check:
- State law
- City/HOA rules
- Golf course policies
And most importantly, prioritize safety.