Trevor Ng
Golf is a popular activity in South Carolina, with over 350 courses to choose from. The state's mild climate makes it a year-round golfing destination, although there are seasonal variations to be aware of when planning a trip. Golf carts are also a common sight in South Carolina, with many residents owning and operating them. However, there are specific laws and safety requirements for their use, including age restrictions, speed limits, and registration procedures. These laws are in place to ensure the safe use of golf carts, as accidents and injuries can occur.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Golf allowed | Yes |
| Golf courses | 350+ |
| Golfing season | All year |
| Golf cart laws | Yes |
| Golf cart registration | Required |
| Golf cart registration fee | $5 |
| Golf cart permit validity | 5 years or until address change |
| Golf cart validation decal validity | 12 months |
| Golf cart insurance | Required |
| Golf cart driver minimum age | 16 years |
| Golf cart driver license | Required |
| Golf cart speed limit | 35 mph |
| Golf cart operation | Daytime only |
| Golf cart safety | Children under 12 must wear seat belts |
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What You'll Learn
Golf in South Carolina is always in season
That said, there are differences in when and where you play golf in South Carolina at different times of the year. In spring, golfers' thoughts turn to the Masters Tournament, followed by South Carolina's annual rite of spring, the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, at Hilton Head Island. The Midlands are especially popular at this time of year. A week at the first major typically involves two to three days walking Augusta National, and the rest staying close to the hotel and playing one of the area's 30-plus courses.
If there's a better time for golf in South Carolina than spring, it's the fall months (September to November). This is especially true in the Upstate, where a weekend of golf on Friday and Sunday, wrapped around a Saturday college football game, is about as good an all-sports adventure as it gets. The Upstate also offers cooler temperatures in the foothills and mountains, and a wealth of great mountain-view golf courses. Favorites include Clemson's Walker Course, Furman University Golf Course in Greenville, and a string of nearly a dozen courses along Scenic Highway 11.
In December and January, daytime highs in South Carolina range from 46–62°F along the coast, and it's not unusual for January to have numerous 60-degree days, especially around inland lakes. While shorter days usually mean teeing off early or wrapping up by 5 pm, there are still tales of glorious, cool midafternoon rounds in the "dead" of South Carolina winters.
Golf carts are also a popular way to get around in South Carolina, and there are specific laws that govern their use. Golf carts may only be operated on public roads by someone who is at least 16 years old and holds a valid driver's license. They must be insured, permitted, and registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV), and can only be driven on secondary highways or streets with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less.
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Golf cart laws in South Carolina
Golf carts are a common mode of transportation in South Carolina, especially for those who live in gated communities or need to travel short distances. As of May 22, 2025, a new golf cart law has been implemented in the state, outlining specific requirements for their use.
Requirements for Golf Cart Use in South Carolina:
- Age and License: The operator of a golf cart must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver's license.
- Registration and Permit: Golf cart owners must obtain a permit, decal, and registration from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This requires proof of ownership and liability insurance, as well as a $5 fee. The permit must be renewed every 5 years or upon an address change.
- Safety Equipment: Golf carts must be equipped with working headlights and taillights for night operation. Children under the age of 12 are required to wear seat belts when riding in a golf cart.
- Speed and Distance Limitations: Golf carts are restricted to roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less. They can be operated within a 4-mile radius of the registered address or ingress/egress of a gated community. However, counties with certain population sizes can reduce this distance to 2 miles.
- Local Regulations: Local municipalities and counties have the authority to set their own rules regarding golf cart usage, including designated paths, hours of operation, and any additional safety measures.
Golf Cart Safety:
It's important to note that golf carts are considered low-speed vehicles, and their operation is governed by local laws. While golf carts provide convenience and ease of transportation, especially in subdivisions and short-distance travels, they should be used with caution and adherence to the established laws and safety measures.
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Golf cart safety measures
Golf carts may seem harmless, but they can pose significant safety risks. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), golf cart accidents in the United States in 2023 resulted in a substantial number of emergency room visits, with injuries ranging from minor cuts to severe head trauma. Therefore, it is crucial to follow these safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure the safe operation of golf carts.
Pre-Trip Inspection and Maintenance:
Before operating a golf cart, always conduct a pre-trip inspection. Check for any leaks, and ensure that all components are in proper working condition. If any issues are identified, do not use the golf cart and follow the appropriate procedures for removing it from service. Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep your golf cart in good condition.
Safe Operation:
Golf cart operators must understand the limitations of golf carts and follow safe driving practices. Operate the golf cart from the driver's seat only, and ensure that all passengers are safely seated with seatbelts fastened, if available. Obey all traffic rules and yield to pedestrians. Avoid distractions such as cell phone use, and never operate the cart under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Passenger Safety:
Passengers play a vital role in their own safety. Educate all passengers on safety rules, such as keeping arms, legs, and feet inside the cart at all times to prevent struck-by incidents. Ensure that passengers avoid sudden movements that could affect the cart's balance and always follow the maximum passenger limit.
Charging and Security:
When charging your golf cart, do so in a well-ventilated area at least 5 feet away from your home to prevent the buildup of harmful gases. Avoid overcharging the battery, and consider investing in a smart charger. Secure your golf cart when unattended by using a lock or storing it in a secure location.
Additional Safety Features:
Consider adding safety features to your golf cart, such as seat belts, mirrors, lights, turn signals, and a horn. These features can enhance visibility and improve safety, especially when operating on public streets.
By following these safety measures, golf cart operators and passengers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
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Golf cart registration requirements
Golf carts are allowed on public roads in South Carolina, but they must meet specific requirements to be street legal. Here are the key registration requirements for golf carts in the state:
Registration and Permit
To operate a golf cart on public roads in South Carolina, you must first register it with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and obtain a permit. The registration and permit processes can be completed by filling out the Golf Cart Permit Registration Form (SCDMV Form GC-2), which can be obtained from any local DMV office or their website. Along with the completed form, you must provide proof of golf cart insurance, your valid South Carolina driver's license number, and pay a $5 permit fee. Once approved, you will receive a permit decal that must be displayed on the golf cart whenever it is operated on public roads. The registration document must also be carried in the golf cart at all times.
Operator Requirements
To drive a golf cart on public roads in South Carolina, the operator must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver's license. When operating the golf cart, the driver must have their driver's license, registration certificate, and proof of insurance readily accessible in the vehicle.
Safety Requirements
Golf carts must be equipped with specific safety features to be street legal in South Carolina. These include headlights and taillights for night operation, seat belts for all passengers (including children under 12), side-view and rearview mirrors, a windshield for protection from wind and debris, and front, rear, and parking brakes. Even with these safety features installed, golf cart operators should exercise caution and moderate speeds when driving on public roads, as golf carts lack the same protective capabilities as standard automobiles.
Local Regulations
Local municipalities and counties in South Carolina can set their own rules and regulations regarding golf carts. These may include designated golf cart paths, restrictions on hours and methods of operation, and permitting night-time operation if the cart has working lights. Golf cart operators should be mindful of and comply with any local ordinances or regulations in their area.
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Golf courses in South Carolina
South Carolina is home to over 350 golf courses, making it one of the best golf destinations in the United States. The state's mild climate makes it a year-round golfing destination, although the short winter days can mean earlier tee-off times.
Some of the best golf courses in South Carolina include the Grande Dunes, which reopened in September 2022 after a renovation, offering spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Grande Dunes Marina. The course is built on a high bluff, providing the ideal setting for a picturesque sunset round. Another course, Osprey Point, was renovated in 2014 by Tom Fazio, with several holes running parallel to water hazards and deep bunkers.
The Tree Farm and Old Barnwell, both outside Aiken, are newcomers to the list of the best courses in the state. Congaree, which won the Best New Course award in 2018, is another relatively new course that has quickly risen to the top.
Other notable courses in South Carolina include the Wachesaw Plantation Club in Murrells Inlet, Berkeley Hall's North Course, and the Palmetto Hall, which features 36 holes of pristine golf immersed in Southern elegance and natural beauty. The Arthur Hills Course at Palmetto Hall has been rated among "America's Top 10 New Courses" by Golf Digest Magazine.
For those seeking mountain views, Upstate South Carolina offers a wealth of great golf courses with scenic backdrops. Clemson's Walker Course, Furman University Golf Course in Greenville, and the string of courses along Scenic Highway 11 are particularly popular choices.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, golf is allowed in South Carolina. In fact, with over 350 golf courses, South Carolina is a popular destination for golfers all year round.
Yes, there are specific laws pertaining to golf carts in South Carolina. Golf carts are allowed on public roads and streets under certain circumstances and with limitations. These include registration, permits, speed limits, operating hours, driver age, and safety equipment.
The minimum age to drive a golf cart in South Carolina is 16 years old. Children under 12 years of age are required to wear a seat belt when the golf cart is being operated on public streets and highways.
