The Clayton Police Department is urging residents to follow North Carolina’s laws regarding the use of golf carts and Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) after receiving a surge of reports involving underage and unlicensed drivers operating these vehicles on roadways.
“It’s important for parents and families to understand that these vehicles are not toys. When used improperly, they pose a serious safety risk, not just to the people driving them, but to everyone sharing the road,” said Clayton Police Chief Greg Tart. “We have always tried to educate the violators first, but we will begin enforcement, especially with repeat offenders.”
According to North Carolina General Statute, an LSV is defined as a four-wheeled vehicle capable of speeds between 20 and 25 miles per hour. LSVs must be properly registered through the NC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), insured, and equipped with mandatory safety features, including headlights, turn signals, brake lights, mirrors, seatbelts, windshield, and a manufacturer-assigned VIN.
By contrast, golf carts that do not meet these safety requirements and cannot exceed 20 mph may not be registered and are prohibited from being operated on public roads.
Clayton Police are particularly concerned about minors behind the wheel of these vehicles.
“It is illegal for anyone under 16 to operate a golf cart or LSV,” Chief Tart explained. “And it’s unlawful for parents or guardians to allow an unlicensed minor to drive any motor vehicle, including golf carts or LSVs, on public streets. We’re seeing too many close calls that could easily turn tragic.”
To legally operate a golf cart or LSV in Clayton:
- The driver must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license
- The vehicle must be registered and insured through the NC DMV
- The vehicle must only be operated on streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less
- The vehicle must meet federal safety standards and include all required equipment State Driving While Impaired (DWI) laws also apply to LSVs and golf carts.
“If you wouldn’t drive a car impaired, don’t think you can get behind the wheel of a golf cart and be exempt,” said Chief Tart. “We’ll enforce those laws the same way.”
The Clayton Police Department encourages all residents to take a moment to review these requirements and to speak with their children about the dangers of unlicensed and underage operations.
For questions about operating LSVs or golf carts in the Town of Clayton, view the Golf Carts and LSV Brochure or contact Traffic Sergeant G. Morris at (919) 553-4611 or gmorris@townofclaytonnc.org.
For information on registration requirements, visit the NC DMV website.