Are Go-Karts Street Legal?
Whether go-karts are street legal depends on the state laws and go-kart type.
Go-karts can be classified as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs), Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs), Utility Vehicles (UTVs) and Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs).
Steps to Make a Go-Kart Street Legal
- Install safety features like seat belts, mirrors, lights, horn and exhaust.
- Get registration and pass inspections.
- Conform to state laws with modifications.
- Remember all road rules and limits.
Go-Kart Legality Overview
- Check state laws on go-karts, including regulations and restrictions on public roads.
- Stay informed to avoid fines or impoundment.
To take models onto streets, need license and ensure speed limit under 35 mph. Off-road go-karts must be registered for license plates allowing certain unpaved lanes.
California LSV registration requirements depend on 4 wheels, under 3000 lbs and 35 mph speed limits on public streets. Off-road go-karts register for stickers allowing unpaved roads and public lands depending on county. Can make highway legal if additional requirements met.
Go-Karts Street Legality in the US
Go-karts are not street-legal in the United States and are meant for track use only. However, you can modify your go-kart to make it street-legal. Their legality is confusing because they fall into different classifications in different US states.
Go-Kart Classifications
- Low-speed vehicles (LSV)
- Off-road vehicles (ORV)
- Utility vehicles (UTV)
- Off-highway vehicle (OHV)
To take such a model out in the streets, you need a driver’s license and ensure that the official speed limit of the street is under 35 mph. As far as off-road go-karts are concerned, these vehicles must be registered at the Secretary of State’s office. You’ll receive a license plate that allows you to drive the kart on certain unpaved lanes. For proper usage on public roads, however, you’ll have to apply for a decal.
It’s an easy question with some complicated answers. Whether your go-kart is street legal comes down to its particular specifications – including top speed, weight, equipment, and powertrain – as well as where you live.