Can I drive a golf cart on the road? 

No, traditional golf carts are not street legal in the State of Tennessee. Tennessee law defines a “golf cart” as a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and equipped with safety belts installed for use in the left front and right front seats and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of twenty miles per hour (20 mph). 

Golf carts are not able to be titled or registered for use on roads, including neighborhood streets. When driving a golf cart on a golf course, drivers must be at least 16 years of age and have a valid driver license or instruction permit.  


What is the difference between a golf cart and a low/medium speed vehicle? 

As opposed to a traditional golf cart, LSVs and MSVs are equipped with specialized safety equipment such as parking brakes, additional mirrors, turn signals, etc. They also must have a Vehicle Identification Number, a license plate displayed, and proof of insurance.

A “low speed vehicle” is defined as any four-wheeled electric or gasoline vehicle, excluding traditional golf carts, whose top speed is greater than twenty miles per hour (20 mph) but not greater than twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph).

A “medium speed vehicle” is defined as any four-wheeled electric or gasoline-powered vehicle, excluding traditional golf carts, whose top speed is greater than thirty miles per hour (30 mph), but not greater than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph).


Can I drive a low speed vehicle (LSV) or medium speed vehicle (MSV) on the road? 

Yes. However, it must be titled and registered. A low speed vehicle may only be driven on roads that have a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. A medium speed vehicle may be driven on roads that have a posted speed limit of 40 mph or less. Drivers are permitted to cross streets that exceed the 35 mph and 40 mph limits respectively at intersections only. Drivers must have a valid driver's license to operate the vehicle. 


Who can drive a low speed vehicle or medium speed vehicle on the road? 

Only individuals over the age of 16 with a valid driver license are allowed to drive LSVs and MSVs on the road. This includes all neighborhood roads.


Why do I see golf carts driving on the road? 

Low speed vehicles and medium speed vehicles may have a similar appearance to golf carts, but have been titled and registered for road use as either LSVs or MSVs. They must meet all safety equipment requirements of the State of Tennessee and must be driven by a licensed driver. Any golf cart that is not registered as a LSV or MSV may not operate on the road. 


Can I modify my traditional golf cart to meet low/medium speed vehicle requirements?

Yes. Some golf carts can be modified, but they must meet all low or medium speed vehicle requirements to allow them to be titled and registered. For more information about how to register your golf cart as a LSV or MVS please click here.


Do traffic laws apply to low and medium speed vehicles driving on the road?

Yes, all traffic laws and regulations apply to these vehicles. This includes all laws and criminal penalties related to driving under the influence. 


Who should I contact if I see unlawful driving activity?

If you see unlawful driving activity, contact the Knoxville Police Department’s non-emergency line at (865) 215-4010. If you believe the driver is in danger or at risk of putting others in danger, call 911.