Updated May 22, 2025 – South Carolina law was amended to outline specific penalties for violating rules related to low-speed vehicles, including golf carts.
Here are a few reminders that golf cart owners in Hilton Head, Bluffton, Charleston, and surrounding areas within SC should keep in mind when owning and operating a personal golf cart:
1) Violation of Golf Cart Laws
Breaking a golf cart law is now considered a misdemeanor. A person may be punished with a fine of up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail unless the offense is categorized as a felony according to South Carolina law.
2) Driver Eligibility Requirements
To drive a golf cart, a person must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license as well as proof of liability insurance.
3) Vehicle Registration
All golf carts must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles and display a permit decal. Golf cart permits must be renewed every five years or if you change your address.
4) Roadway Regulations
Golf cart drivers must remain within 4 miles of the vehicle registration address and may only drive on roadways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. The Town of Bluffton does not permit driving after dark. Rules vary by municipality and gated community, so be sure to check the laws and regulations in your area.
Each passenger under the age of 12 years old, when it is being operated on the public streets or highways of SC, must wear a fastened safety belt.
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Are you required to have a sticker/permit for vacation rental bring lsv/cart with them from North Carolina? If so how much is it and what are the procedures? Would be in the area for week or less and do not know the house address yet.
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If you’re in a gated community, they may require some sort of sticker like you would put on your personal vehicles. That would be part of the normal process of giving the property owners association your information upon purchasing a property. Otherwise, the town requires you to register your cart. It’s very inexpensive to do.
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How much does it cost to register your golf cart for one week in Hilton head me and my wife both are handicapped and would like to use the golf cart to get around while we’re there
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That’s a great question! You can visit this website for more information. But it appears that you can get a golf cart permit for only $5 that is valid for 5 years. http://scdmvonline.com/Vehicle-Owners/Types-Of-Vehicles/Golf-Cart