Go-karts may be fun to drive around town in, but they were not designed to travel on public roads. Instead, these go-karts should only be used on tracks and karting facilities for fun! In order to make your go-kart street legal you will need it inspected by your local DMV representative.
If your go-kart meets all requirements and specifications, it will be registered as a low-speed neighborhood vehicle. Furthermore, you will need to have it insured.
Tracks
Go karts are commonly considered off-road racing vehicles and cannot legally be driven on public roads; however, they remain legal to use on private tracks or properties. Some states can register them as Low Speed Vehicles (LSV), provided they meet certain specifications and equipment.
To make your go kart street legal, a thorough inspection by an appointed official is necessary. This inspection will verify that it contains the appropriate safety parts and meets regulations; additionally, you will need to submit a statement detailing where and how you sourced parts for assembling it.
Alabama state regulations restrict go kart use on paved roads to those certified as LSVs, equipped with windshield, headlights, tail lights and seat belts; driving can only occur during daylight hours with drivers aged 16 or over holding valid drivers licenses.
Off-Road
Go-karts can be enjoyed on race tracks, karting trails, private property and certain approved public areas; however they should never be driven on streets as these vehicles are classified as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs). Registration to use them on roads requires meeting specific criteria set forth by state statutes – for more information it would be prudent to refer to local statutes.
To make a go-kart street legal, you will need to install all necessary safety equipment such as lights, horn and exhaust. These parts can be purchased either online or at local automotive parts stores. In addition, installing a seat belt may help protect you in case of an accident.
South Dakota permits go-kart drivers who comply with all state regulations to operate them legally on public roadways and trails. A legally registered go-kart must be designated a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), have an upper speed limit of 20-25 mph and include all of its necessary parts. In addition, recreational off-highway go-karts (ROHVs) may also be registered to operate on public lands and trails.
Montana
Go-karts offer an exhilarating way to enjoy driving on public roads, but it is essential that their use remains legal. Go-karts should only ever be driven on these public roadways at tracks.
Alabama state law does not recognize go-karts as street legal until they’ve been registered officially with the DMV department and meet certain criteria; including all necessary safety components and possessing a 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Wisconsin law permits go-kart owners to make their vehicle street legal by meeting certain parts specifications and weight criteria and under 3000 pounds. You may register your go-kart as an LSV (Low Speed Vehicle). In certain counties, registration as an ATV/UTV allows access on designated ATV/UTV routes.
Alaska
When riding your go-kart on public roads, it is a good idea to check state laws and regulations first. Some states do not permit their use on public roads while others impose strict requirements – regardless of any such rules, you should always wear protective gear and adhere to your state’s regulations.
Alaska law only permits operating off-road karts on private property and public lands, although they can also be registered as Low-Speed Vehicles and Off-Highway Vehicles if they pass an inspection and meet all criteria; they can even be driven on highway shoulders with a valid permit.
Idaho allows go-kart operators who meet certain requirements to legally operate it on public streets, including being electrically powered and reaching speeds up to 25 mph. Furthermore, an LSV registration should also be secured along with all safety equipment for legal operation on public streets.
Chris is a passionate learner and writer. When he’s not working on his blog or learning something new, he’s a full-time systems administrator and father of two beautiful girls. Chris loves spending time with his family, reading, writing, and playing hockey.