Arizona Golf Cart Laws

Golf Cart Laws in Arizona: ARS 28-777 Explained for 2026

Arizona has one of the more permissive golf cart frameworks in the western United States. Under ARS § 28-777, golf carts may be operated on public roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less, provided the driver holds a valid driver's license and the vehicle carries the required auto insurance. Registration with the Arizona MVD is required for any golf cart operated on public roads.

Moderate RiskLast reviewed: April 2026
25 mph
Max Cart Speed
35 mph
Max Road Limit
Yes
DUI Applies
Yes
LSV Street Legal

Key Arizona Statutes

ARS § 28-777
Golf Cart Operation on Roadways
ARS § 28-101
Low Speed Vehicle Definition
ARS § 28-2516
LSV Registration

Golf Cart vs. LSV in Arizona

RequirementStandard Golf CartStreet-Legal LSV
Street Legal StatewideYes — roads ≤35 mph (ARS § 28-777)Yes — roads ≤35 mph
Registration RequiredYes — Arizona MVDYes — Arizona MVD
Driver's LicenseYes (min. age 16)Yes
Insurance RequiredYesYes
Max Road Speed Limit35 mph35 mph
DUI Laws ApplyYesYes
Sidewalk UseProhibitedProhibited

Standard Golf Cart Rules in Arizona

Registration
Required with Arizona MVD for any golf cart operated on public roads
Insurance
Required — minimum liability coverage per Arizona law
Max Speed
25 mph
Permitted Roads
Permitted on roads posted 35 mph or less statewide (ARS § 28-777); NOT permitted on sidewalks or multi-use paths
Driver's License
Valid Arizona driver's license required (minimum age 16)
DUI Laws Apply
Yes — same penalties as a standard vehicle DUI
Required Equipment
  • Headlights and taillights
  • Turn signal lamps
  • Mirrors
  • Horn
  • Brakes
  • Seat belts
  • Windshield

Street-Legal LSV Rules in Arizona

Registration
Required with Arizona MVD under ARS § 28-2516
Max Speed
20–25 mph
Permitted Roads
Roads posted 35 mph or less
Required Equipment
  • All federal FMVSS 500 safety standards
  • VIN required
  • Headlamps, turn signals, tail lamps, stop lamps
  • Mirrors, windshield, seat belts
  • Parking brake, horn

Notable Arizona Communities

Scottsdale
Major golf cart destination with specific ordinances for resort areas; popular for resort and event transportation
Mesa
Large retirement and golf cart community; many streets permit golf cart use
Sun City / Sun City West
Among the largest golf cart communities in the US; extensive internal cart path networks and street access
Peoria
Active golf cart community with local ordinances
Surprise
Growing golf cart use in retirement communities

Key Legal Risk in Arizona

Arizona is unique in that it explicitly permits golf carts on public roads statewide under ARS § 28-777 — but registration and insurance are mandatory. Driving an unregistered or uninsured golf cart on a public road is a civil and potentially criminal violation.

Ready to Go Street Legal in Arizona?

Intermountain Golf Cars specializes in street-legal LSV conversions and sales serving Arizona and the Western US. Our team can help you choose the right vehicle and ensure full compliance with Arizona law.

Golf Cart Laws in Other States

Legal Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Golf cart laws change frequently and vary by municipality. Always verify current laws with your local municipality and consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.