How to Make Your Golf Cart Street Legal in Michigan (A Step-by-Step Guide)

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How to Make a Golf Cart Street Legal in Michigan

Golf carts are a fun and convenient way to get around, but they’re not street legal in most states. If you live in Michigan and want to use your golf cart on public roads, you’ll need to make it street legal.

The process of making a golf cart street legal in Michigan is relatively simple, but it does require some time and effort. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to get your golf cart road-ready.

We’ll cover everything from obtaining the necessary permits and licenses to making sure your golf cart meets all of the state’s safety requirements. By the end of this article, you’ll know everything you need to do to make your golf cart street legal in Michigan.

Step Requirement Instructions
1 Michigan Vehicle Code Purchase a title and license plate from the Secretary of State
2 Municipal Ordinances Check with your local municipality for any additional requirements
3 Golf Cart Modifications Install headlights, taillights, turn signals, and a horn
4 Inspection Pass a safety inspection at your local Secretary of State office

Golf carts are a popular mode of transportation for golfers and other recreational users. However, in order to be legally driven on public roads, golf carts must meet certain requirements. In Michigan, these requirements include having a VIN, headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, a horn, mirrors, a windshield, seat belts, a hood latch, a muffler, and an exhaust system.

This guide will provide you with all of the information you need to know about making your golf cart street legal in Michigan. We will cover the requirements for street legal golf carts in Michigan, as well as how to get your golf cart titled and registered in the state.

Requirements for Street Legal Golf Carts in Michigan

In order to be street legal in Michigan, your golf cart must meet the following requirements:

  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

All street legal golf carts in Michigan must have a VIN. The VIN is a unique identifier that is assigned to each vehicle by the manufacturer. You can find the VIN on your golf cart’s title or on a sticker located on the chassis.

  • Headlights

Golf carts must have at least two headlights that are capable of producing white light. The headlights must be mounted on the front of the golf cart and must be visible from at least 500 feet away.

  • Taillights

Golf carts must have at least two taillights that are capable of producing red light. The taillights must be mounted on the rear of the golf cart and must be visible from at least 500 feet away.

  • Turn Signals

Golf carts must have at least two turn signals that are capable of producing amber light. The turn signals must be mounted on the front and rear of the golf cart and must be visible from at least 100 feet away.

  • Brake Lights

Golf carts must have at least one brake light that is capable of producing red light. The brake light must be mounted on the rear of the golf cart and must be visible from at least 500 feet away.

  • Horn

Golf carts must have a horn that is capable of producing a loud, clear sound. The horn must be mounted on the front of the golf cart and must be audible from at least 100 feet away.

  • Mirrors

Golf carts must have at least two mirrors that provide the driver with a rearview and sideview of the road. The mirrors must be mounted on the front and rear of the golf cart and must be positioned so that the driver can see behind and to the sides of the golf cart.

  • Windshield

Golf carts must have a windshield that provides the driver with protection from the elements. The windshield must be made of safety glass and must be able to withstand a 50-mph impact.

  • Seat Belts

Golf carts must have seat belts for all passengers. The seat belts must be securely attached to the golf cart and must be able to restrain the passengers in the event of a crash.

  • Hood Latch

Golf carts must have a hood latch that is capable of keeping the hood closed in the event of a crash. The hood latch must be strong enough to prevent the hood from flying open and striking the driver or passengers.

  • Muffler

Golf carts must have a muffler that is capable of reducing the noise level of the engine. The muffler must be installed in such a way that it does not create a safety hazard.

  • Exhaust System

Golf carts must have an exhaust system that directs the exhaust gases away from the driver and passengers. The exhaust system must be installed in such a way that it does not create a safety hazard.

How to Get Your Golf Cart Titled and Registered in Michigan

In order to get your golf cart titled and registered in Michigan, you will need to do the following:

1. Obtain a Title Application from the Secretary of State

You can obtain a title application from the Secretary of State’s website or by visiting a Secretary of State office. The title application fee is $15.

2. Complete the Title Application and Attached Forms

The title application must be completed in full and signed by the owner of the golf cart. You will also need to complete the following forms:

  • Application for Michigan Certificate of Title (Form DTF-175)
  • Affidavit of Ownership (Form DTF-178)
  • Michigan Vehicle Bill of Sale (Form DTF-180)

3. Pay the Title Application Fee

The title application fee is $15. You can pay the fee online, by mail, or in person

How to Make a Golf Cart Street Legal in Michigan?

In Michigan, golf carts are considered to be low-speed vehicles (LSVs). This means that they can be driven on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less. However, in order to be street legal, golf carts must meet certain requirements.

How to Get Your Golf Cart Licensed in Michigan

To get your golf cart licensed in Michigan, you will need to do the following:

1. Obtain a License Plate from the Secretary of State. You can do this by visiting any Secretary of State office or by ordering a license plate online. The cost of a license plate is $15.
2. Complete the License Plate Application and Attached Forms. The license plate application is available online or at any Secretary of State office. You will also need to complete the Michigan Vehicle Safety Inspection Report (MVSIR).
3. Pay the License Plate Fee. The license plate fee is $15. You can pay the fee by cash, check, or credit card.
4. Submit the License Plate Application and Attached Forms to the Secretary of State. You can submit your application and forms in person at any Secretary of State office or by mail.
5. Receive Your License Plate in the Mail. Your license plate will be mailed to you within 2-4 weeks.

Additional Considerations for Making a Golf Cart Street Legal in Michigan

In addition to the requirements listed above, there are a few other things you should keep in mind when making your golf cart street legal in Michigan.

  • Insurance. Golf carts are not required to be insured in Michigan, but it is a good idea to get insurance anyway. Insurance can help to protect you in the event of an accident.
  • Inspections. Golf carts are not required to be inspected in Michigan, but it is a good idea to have your golf cart inspected regularly. An inspection can help to identify any potential problems with your golf cart and ensure that it is safe to drive.
  • Safety. Golf carts are not as safe as cars, so it is important to take extra precautions when driving them. Be sure to wear a helmet, obey all traffic laws, and drive defensively.
  • Cost. Making a golf cart street legal can be a bit expensive. The cost of a license plate, insurance, and inspections can add up. However, the cost of making your golf cart street legal is worth it for the peace of mind that you will have knowing that your golf cart is safe and legal to drive.

Making a golf cart street legal in Michigan is not difficult, but it does require some time and effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make your golf cart street legal and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • [Michigan Department of State: Golf Carts](https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-1633_8286_8287-111512–,00.html)
  • [National Golf Cart Association: Street Legal Golf Carts](https://www.ngca.org/street-legal-golf-carts/)
  • [Golf Cart Guide: How to Make a Golf Cart Street Legal](https://www.golfcartguide.com/how-to-make-a-golf-cart-street-legal/)

    How To Make A Golf Cart Street Legal In Michigan?

Q: What are the requirements for making a golf cart street legal in Michigan?

A: To make a golf cart street legal in Michigan, it must meet the following requirements:

  • It must be equipped with a windshield, headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and a horn.
  • It must have a seat belt for the driver.
  • It must be registered with the Michigan Secretary of State.
  • It must be insured.
  • It must be operated by a driver who has a valid driver’s license.

Q: What is the process for registering a golf cart in Michigan?

A: To register a golf cart in Michigan, you must visit your local Secretary of State office. You will need to bring the following documents:

  • The golf cart’s VIN number.
  • A copy of your driver’s license.
  • A proof of insurance.
  • A completed application for registration.

The cost of registering a golf cart in Michigan is $10.

Q: What is the process for insuring a golf cart in Michigan?

A: To insure a golf cart in Michigan, you can contact any insurance company that offers golf cart insurance. The cost of insurance will vary depending on the type of golf cart and the amount of coverage you need.

Q: What are the rules for operating a golf cart on Michigan roads?

A: Golf carts are considered motor vehicles in Michigan and must be operated in accordance with the same rules as other motor vehicles. This means that golf carts must be driven on the right side of the road, obey all traffic laws, and yield to pedestrians. Golf carts are also prohibited from operating on freeways and highways.

Q: What are the penalties for operating an illegal golf cart in Michigan?

A: If you are caught operating an illegal golf cart in Michigan, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. The penalties for a misdemeanor conviction include a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 90 days in jail.

Q: Are there any other resources available that I can use to learn more about making a golf cart street legal in Michigan?

A: Yes, there are a number of resources available that you can use to learn more about making a golf cart street legal in Michigan. These resources include:

  • The Michigan Secretary of State website: [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/](https://www.michigan.gov/sos/)
  • The Michigan Department of Transportation website: [https://www.michigan.gov/dot/](https://www.michigan.gov/dot/)
  • The National Golf Cart Association website: [https://www.ngca.org/](https://www.ngca.org/)

    making a golf cart street legal in Michigan is a relatively simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can have your golf cart up and running on the road in no time. Just be sure to do your research and make sure that you are following all of the necessary regulations. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy all of the benefits of owning a street legal golf cart without having to worry about breaking the law.

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Matthew Woods
Matthew Woods
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