In recent years, the popularity of street legal golf carts has soared beyond golf courses. From gated communities and school campuses to military bases and amusement parks, these low-speed vehicles offer an eco-friendly, affordable, and stylish transportation solution. But what is the actual cost of street legal golf carts? Whether you’re considering a brand-new golf cart, a pre-owned golf cart, or a custom-built cart, this guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Golf Cart “Street Legal”?
Before discussing pricing, it’s essential to understand the difference between conventional and legal golf carts. A street-legal golf cart meets specific safety and equipment standards set by local and federal authorities. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS), a street legal cart must have:
- LED lights (headlights, taillights, brake light)
- Rearview mirrors
- Exterior mirror (some states)
- Seat belts
- Horn
- Windshield wipers (state-dependent)
- Turn signals
- Parking brake
- Speed capability up to 25 miles per hour (most regulations)
These features ensure that street legal carts can safely operate on public roads, unlike standard golf carts limited to golf courses.
How Much Do Street Legal Golf Carts Cost?
1. Base Pricing
The base pricing for a new street legal golf cart typically starts from $8,000 and can go up to $15,000. For example:
| Cart Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 2-Seater Golf Cart | $8,000 – $9,500 |
| 4-Seater Golf Cart | $9,500 – $11,000 |
| 6-Seater Golf Cart | $11,000 – $13,000 |
| $10,000 6-Seater Golf Cart | $10,000 (average) |
| $13,000 8-Seater Golf Cart | $13,000+ |
Brands like Icon I60-L Lithium Street Legal Golf Cart, Nexus Street-Legal Golf Cart, and Central Coast Carts are popular options offering reliable builds within this price range.
2. Electric vs. Gas-Powered Carts
Another key factor in determining the golf cart costs is the power source. Both electric golf carts and gas-powered carts have their own price points:
- Electric Golf Cart Prices: $8,000 – $12,000
- Features: Quiet operation, lower maintenance costs, higher battery capacity.
- Example: Bintelli’s street-legal electric golf carts are an excellent source for eco-friendly, cost-effective models.
- Gas-Powered Carts: $9,500 – $13,000
- Higher cost of gas but no need to worry about charging infrastructure.
If you’re considering electric utility vehicles for everyday life, remember to factor in the cost of the lithium battery, which influences total ownership cost.
3. Customization Options and Their Costs
Many buyers opt for customizable options to reflect their style and usage needs. Custom features may include:
- Custom seats & upholstery: $500 – $1,200
- Alloy or beautiful wheels: $800 – $1,500
- Enhanced sound systems: $700 – $1,000
- Lift kits: $1,000 – $2,500
- Additional accessories like rear seat kits, advanced features, or custom cart bodies: $1,000 – $3,000+
Orange County Monster Carts and custom golf cart providers specialize in offering an array of golf carts with extensive customization.
4. Pre-Owned Golf Cart Pricing
If you’re budget-conscious, a pre-owned golf cart offers excellent value. The average price ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 depending on:
- Year of manufacture
- Condition of the cart
- Upgrades and battery life
Always check the golf cart battery health, mileage, and regular maintenance history before purchasing a used cart.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Street Legal Golf Carts
Several critical factors determine how much you’ll pay:
a. Battery Type & Battery Capacity
Electric golf carts with lithium battery packs command higher prices but offer better battery life, quicker charging times, and lower battery maintenance. However, lead-acid batteries are cheaper upfront but may incur more frequent replacement costs.
b. Customization Level
Your exact preferences, whether it’s custom paint jobs, LED lighting, or extra seating, significantly affect the cart price.
c. Brand & Model
Popular brands like E-Z-GO golf carts, Club Car golf cart, and Icon I60-L Lithium Street Legal Golf Cart often cost more due to their durability, warranties, and customer satisfaction.
d. Warranty Coverage
New carts come with warranties ranging from 2 to 5 years, such as the 2-year warranty standard with many dealers and 5-year powertrain warranty on premium models.
Maintenance Costs for Street Legal Golf Carts
Maintenance expenses are another consideration. Whether you have an electric vehicle or gas-powered cart, you’ll need to budget for:
| Maintenance Item | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Battery maintenance | $150 – $500 |
| Tire replacement | $200 – $400 |
| Brake service | $150 – $350 |
| General regular maintenance | $300 – $600 |
Electric carts may have lower maintenance costs but periodic battery replacement can be significant depending on usage and brand.
Where Can You Find Carts for Sale?
Several options exist for finding vehicles for sale:
- Golf cart dealership: Local dealers like Central Coast Carts and Orange County Monster Carts often provide a wide selection of carts.
- Online platforms: Websites offering both new and pre-owned golf carts, with filters by zip code.
- Direct manufacturers: Brands like Nexus Street-Legal Golf Cart and Bintelli offer factory-direct sales, often with attractive instant rates and shorter delivery lead times (around 4-5 weeks or 4-6 weeks).
Popular Uses of Street Legal Golf Carts
Street legal golf carts are no longer limited to golf courses. Common uses include:
- School campuses for transportation.
- Military bases for on-site movement.
- Amusement parks and resorts.
- Gated communities.
- Corporate campuses and coastal distribution hubs.
- Business events: Companies use custom-built carts as promotional or cart for business purposes.
These carts are not just fun—they’re practical and compliant for public roads.
Comparing Street Legal Golf Carts to Conventional Golf Carts
When comparing the two, it’s important to understand:
| Feature | Conventional Golf Cart | Street Legal Golf Cart |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 12-15 mph | Up to 25 miles per hour |
| Lights & Safety Features | Basic or none | Full LED lights, mirrors, belts |
| DMV Registration | No | Yes |
| Road Usage | Golf courses only | Public roads |
| Cost | $5,000 – $8,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 |
Is It Worth Getting a Custom Golf Cart?
If you want a perfect cart that fits your lifestyle, investing in a custom cart can be worth it. Whether it’s adding a unique paint job, installing custom seats, or upgrading to beautiful wheels, customization transforms a basic cart into something special.
Dealers also offer basic customizations or more advanced features like sound systems, upgraded suspension, and safety gear. This makes them ideal for buyers who need a cart for sale events, powersports vehicles, or personal transportation.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Street Legal Golf Cart for You?
The best cart depends on your needs:
- Electric carts are ideal for eco-conscious users and areas with charging access.
- Gas-powered carts offer extended range without charging concerns.
- If you’re after style and uniqueness, consider customization options with a focus on safety and comfort.
Don’t forget to inquire about Customer service, battery maintenance, and warranties. Brands like E-Z-GO Golf Cart Model, Nexus Street-Legal Golf Cart, and Bintelli’s street-legal electric golf carts offer reliable options for varied budgets.