Low Speed Vehicles/Golf Carts

Low speed vehicles (LSV) are small, four-wheeled vehicles that are built to specific federal vehicle standards by licensed manufacturers. Homemade vehicles and retrofitted golf carts do not qualify. Dealers and other businesses in the industry must be licensed by the DMV.

Low speed vehicles may be operated on public streets where the speed limit is no more than 35 miles per hour. The driver must possess a valid Class C or higher driver's license. A Class C driver’s license with an “XM” restriction means the driver is permitted to drive a low speed vehicle only.

NRS 484.527
1. As used in this section, “low-speed vehicle” means a motor vehicle:

1. Designed to carry not more than four persons;

2. Designed to operate at a maximum speed of at least 20 but not more than 25 miles per hour;

3. Having at least four wheels in contact with the ground;

4. Having an unladen weight of less than 1,800 pounds; and

5. Complying with the standards for safety of such a vehicle set forth in Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 500 at 49 C.F.R. § 571.500.

2. If registered, a low-speed vehicle may be operated upon a highway where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. A person shall not operate a low-speed vehicle upon a highway where the posted speed limit is greater than 35 miles per hour, except to cross such a highway at an intersection.

Low speed vehicles are subject to the same registration requirements as other vehicles including insurance, taxes and emissions inspections. They are issued standard-sized license plates. 

A low speed vehicle must be inspected at a DMV VIN inspection station or by a peace officer prior to its first registration. The owner must also certify that the vehicle's safety equipment is in proper working order.

Vehicle Inspection Certificate (RD-15)
For Vehicle Identification Number Verification. Must be completed by a DMV representative, a peace officer or other authorized agent.

Low Speed Vehicle Equipment Certification (RD-16)
To certify that safety equipment on a low speed vehicle is in good working condition.

You must present a Nevada Evidence of Insurance card, the two forms above and all other documents required for registration. See Vehicle Registration Requirements.

Low speed vehicle renewals are identical to those for other vehicles. You will receive a mailed renewal notice that indicates whether an emissions inspection is required. You may use any of the normal Renewal Options.

Golf carts may be operated in residential developments where the appropriate city or county government has approved their use. A DMV permit and insurance are required in certain developments in Clark County where carts are used as general transportation.

It is the responsibility of the golf cart owner to know what roads are designated as permissible for the operation of golf carts.

Permits for Golf Carts 
NRS 482.398 Issuance in county whose population is 400,000 or more; conditions under which permit not necessary.

1. In a county whose population is 400,000 or more, a permit for the operation of a golf cart may be issued by the Department if the golf cart is equipped as required by subsection 2 and evidence of insurance as required for the registration of a motor vehicle is submitted when application for the permit is made.
    

2. A golf cart must have the following equipment:

1. Headlamps;

2. Tail lamps, reflectors, stop lamps and an emblem or placard for slow moving vehicles;

3. A mirror; and

4. Brakes.
   Each of these items of equipment must meet the standards prescribed for motor vehicles generally.

3. A permit is not required for the operation of a golf cart during daylight, by a person holding a current driver’s license, if the golf cart is:

1. Equipped with an emblem or placard for slow moving vehicles; and

2. Operated solely upon that portion of a highway designated by the appropriate city or county as a:

1. Crossing for golf carts; or

2. Route of access between a golf course and the residence or temporary abode of the owner or operator of the golf cart.

Golf carts that require permits must be inspected at a DMV VIN Inspection Station (at Full Service Offices) prior to first-time registration. Permits cost $10.00 per year and expire on December 31st. 

Golf Cart Permit Application (SP-16)
For carts operated on public streets in specific residential developments.

You must provide a Nevada Evidence of Insurance card at registration.

Renewal notices are mailed in early December each year. You may renew by mail or in person.