Golf Cart Insurance and Permits in South Carolina
In South Carolina, a golf cart on a public road needs a $5 permit decal, a registration and liability insurance. Here’s what that means on Hilton Head.
Does a Golf Cart Need Insurance in South Carolina?
Yes, to drive it on a public road. The state requires liability insurance on a permitted golf cart, and the driver has to carry proof of it with the registration. A cart used only on your own property or a golf course doesn’t need a permit, but it can still hurt someone or be stolen.
Don’t assume your homeowners policy covers it. Many cover a cart only on your own property or the course, not on a street or a community path, so ask your agent in writing. A golf cart policy, or a cart added to your auto policy, usually has these parts:
Liability
Pays for injuries and damage you cause to other people. This is the part the state requires.
Collision and comprehensive
Collision pays to fix your cart after a crash; comprehensive covers theft, storms and flooding.
Medical payments
Helps with medical bills for you and your riders, whoever is at fault.
Uninsured motorist
Covers you if a driver with no insurance, or too little, hits your cart.
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The South Carolina Golf Cart Permit and Registration
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles issues a permit decal and a registration certificate for a golf cart. Apply with form GC-2 at an SCDMV office, with proof that you own the cart and proof of liability insurance. It costs $5, the same for a new decal, a renewal or a replacement. Put the decal on the cart and keep the registration with you when you drive on a road.
Where You Can Drive a Permitted Cart
16 or older, licensed
The driver must be at least 16 and carry a valid driver’s license.
Within 4 miles
Stay within 4 miles of the address on the registration, or of the gate if that address is in a gated community.
35 mph or less
Only on secondary roads and streets posted at 35 mph or less, never on William Hilton Parkway or the Cross Island.
Daylight, unless local rules differ
Daylight only under state law unless the town or county sets other hours. Children under 12 wear a seat belt.
Towns, counties and gated communities can add their own rules, and the island’s plantations often do, from where carts may park to whether renters may drive them. Ask your community before you buy a cart. Renting one for a vacation instead? See golf cart rentals on Hilton Head.
Low-Speed Vehicles Are Different
A low-speed vehicle (LSV) is built to go 20 to 25 mph and has headlights, turn signals, mirrors, seat belts and a VIN. It’s titled and registered like a car, with a regular license plate, and needs the same insurance as a car, not a golf cart permit. Ask the dealer which one you’re buying.
For a quote, ask the agency that writes your home or auto policy, or one of the insurance agencies on Hilton Head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated
Does a golf cart need insurance in South Carolina?
Yes, to drive it on a public road. A permitted golf cart must have liability insurance, and the driver must carry proof of it along with the registration certificate.
How do I get a golf cart permit in South Carolina?
Apply to the SCDMV with form GC-2, proof of ownership and proof of liability insurance. The permit decal and registration cost $5.
Does homeowners insurance cover a golf cart?
Often only on your own property or a golf course, not on public streets. Ask your agent, and add a golf cart policy or an endorsement if it doesn’t.
How far can I drive a golf cart from home in South Carolina?
Within 4 miles of the address on the registration, or of the entrance of your gated community, on roads posted at 35 mph or less.
Is a low-speed vehicle the same as a golf cart?
No. A low-speed vehicle is titled and plated like a car and needs car insurance, not a golf cart permit.
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