In Florida, low-speed vehicles (LSVs), which are defined as vehicles with a top speed greater than 20 mph but not greater than 25 mph, are subject to specific insurance requirements. Unlike regular golf carts, LSVs must be registered, titled, and insured to be legally driven on public roads.

Mandatory Coverage

Florida law mandates that LSVs carry a minimum of:

  • $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
  • $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL)

This requirement is in accordance with Florida’s no-fault law, where PIP covers medical expenses for injuries sustained in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. PDL, on the other hand, covers damages caused to another person’s property in an accident.

Low Speed Vehicle Insurance in Florida
Low Speed Vehicle Insurance in Florida

Additional coverage options

While the above are the minimum requirements, LSV owners can consider additional coverage for enhanced protection:

  • Collision coverage: Helps pay for repairs to your LSV, regardless of who is at fault.
  • Comprehensive coverage: Covers damages caused by events other than collisions, such as vandalism, theft, or natural disasters.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has insufficient or no insurance.
  • Medical Payments Coverage: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
  • Guest Liability Coverage: Provides liability protection for passengers in your LSV in case of a lawsuit.
  • Roadside Assistance: Offers help in case of breakdowns or towing needs.

Cost of insurance

The cost of LSV insurance in Florida can vary, but basic liability-only policies can start as low as $100 per year. Factors that can influence the price include the chosen insurance company, modifications to the LSV, and any additional coverage options selected.

Obtaining insurance

Several insurance providers offer LSV insurance in Florida, including:

  • Geico
  • American Modern Insurance
  • Progressive Insurance
  • American Integrity Insurance
  • National General Insurance
  • Shane Griffis Agency

It is recommended to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the policy that best suits your needs and budget. You can also contact insurance agencies specializing in golf cart and LSV insurance for personalized solutions.

Low Speed Vehicle Insurance in Florida

Converted Golf Carts

Golf carts can be converted to LSVs (see LSV safety equipment requirements above). Buyers should be aware that if a golf cart has been modified to an LSV, the registration and title date do not reflect the manufacture date (age of the vehicle). Instead, it indicates the year it was registered and titled. This means that the vehicle could be older than the date listed on the title.

Titling and Registering a Converted Golf Cart

Prior to titling and registering a converted golf cart, the applicant must present photographs of the front, back, and both sides (4 total) of the converted vehicle to a Motorist Services Regional Office along with the following documents and fees for an inspection, VIN assignment, title, and registration:

(Note: The converted golf cart must be street-legal before applying for title and registration.)

  • Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or a bill of sale for the golf cart Form HSMV 84490
    (Statement of Builder) completed by customer and Compliance Examiner/Inspector;
  • Form HSMV 86064
    (Affidavit for Golf Cart Modified to a Low Speed Vehicle);
  • Original bill(s) of sale or receipt(s) for all parts used to convert the golf cart to a low speed vehicle;
  • Certified weight slip for the converted golf cart;
  • Form HSMSV 82040
    (Application for Title);
  • Proof of Florida insurance (minimum $10,000 PDL and $10,000 PIP);
  • Sales tax or sales tax exemption information for all parts;
  • Identification – driver license, ID card or passport; and
  • Applicable fees
    • Inspection fee
    • Title fee
    • Plate fee
    • Initial registration fee, if applicable
    • Registration fee (varies by weight of vehicle)

Additional Considerations

  • Registration and titling: LSVs must be registered and titled with the state of Florida, in addition to having insurance.
  • Safety equipment: LSVs need to be equipped with specific safety features, including headlights, turn signals, stop lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, windshield, seatbelts, and a VIN.

LSVs may be operated only on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 MPH or less and must be equipped with the following safety equipment:

  • Headlamps
  • Front and rear turn signals
  • Stop lamps
  • Tail lamps
  • Reflex reflectors, red – one each side and one on the rear
  • Exterior mirror on the driver side and an interior rear-view mirror or exterior mirror on passenger side
  • Parking brake
  • Windshield
  • Seat belt for each designated seat
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)

To title and register an LSV, take the following documents to a Motor Vehicle Service Center:

  • Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin;
  • Form HSMV 82040
    (Application for Title);
  • Proof of Florida insurance (minimum $10,000 PDL and $10, 000 PIP);
  • Identification – driver license, ID card or passport; and
  • Applicable fees
    • Title fee
    • Plate fee
    • Initial registration fee, if applicable
    • Registration fee (varies by weight of vehicle)