It’s hard to tell if this is the most Florida law ever introduced, because it deals specifically with the use of golf carts on public roads, or the least Florida law to ever exist, because it introduces limits on their use. We’ll leave it to you to decide.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law last week that will introduce restrictions to the use of golf carts based on the age and licensing status of the operator. That’s right, kids, the fun is set to stop.
As it stands, you currently have to be at least 14 years of age to operate a golf cart on roads that are designated for small vehicles, but that’s about the only rule, WPBF reports. Starting on October 1, no one under the age of 18 will be allowed to drive a golf cart on those roadways unless they have a valid license or learner’s permit.
Read: Florida Woman Arrested For Driving Golf Cart On Interstate While Under The Influence
The good news for 13-year-olds with a birthday in November who were really looking forward to taking the wheel of a golf cart, they only really have to wait an extra year. Although the law doesn’t specify it, Floridians are eligible to get their learner’s permit at the age of 15, making that the de facto age limit for golf cart drivers.
The bad news for people over the age of 18, is that new limits may soon apply to them, too. The new law also prohibits adults from operating the vehicles on certain roadways unless they have a valid license or learner’s permit.
The new law also gives water control districts to designate roads for golf cart use, provided that the county approves the decision.
So there you have it, starting on October 1, 2023, the use of golf carts on Florida roads will be restricted. Is that remarkably on brand for the state, or weirdly sensible, and therefore a deeply un-Florida move? Let us know in the comments.
