Golf Carts
Golf Cart Compliance Reminder: Insurance Coverage & SCDMV Permits
The Offices of Risk Services and Insurance remind all Clemson University departments of their responsibility to ensure all University-owned golf carts and motorized utility vehicles are properly insured, permitted, and legally operated in accordance with South Carolina law.
Insurance Coverage at Risk
Golf carts that are insured but not properly permitted through the SCDMV place University insurance coverage at risk. If an accident or loss involves an unregistered golf cart, insurance coverage is void. This is not discretionary—University insurance policies require vehicles to be legally registered for coverage to apply.
South Carolina Legal Requirements
Under South Carolina law, golf carts may operate on public roads only if all conditions below are met.
GOLF CART OPERATING RULES (STATE LAW):
- Roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less
- Operation within 4 miles of the registration address
- Driver must be at least 16 years old
- Driver must hold a valid driver’s license
- Proof of liability insurance must be carried at all times
- A valid permit and registration issued by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV)
Failure to meet any of these requirements places the University—and the department—at risk.
NO PERMIT = NO GUARANTEE OF COVERAGE. Insurance alone does not protect an unregistered vehicle.
A golf cart without a current SCDMV permit sticker is considered out of compliance, and losses involving that vehicle will not be covered.
Action Required by Departments
Departments must verify that every University-owned golf cart displays a current SCDMV permit sticker. If a permit sticker is missing, expired, or unclear, action is required now.
If your department has a golf cart that is not properly permitted, contact the Office of Risk Services and Insurance immediately at riskmanagment@clemson.edu.
Our office will provide:
- The completed SCDMV permit application
- The required insurance policy documentation needed for SC DMV registration
Updated South Carolina Golf Cart Law
Departments are responsible for ensuring compliance with both state law and local regulations. As of May 2025, South Carolina’s updated statute (Section 56-2-90 of the South Carolina Code) requires:
- SCDMV permit and registration
- Compliance with driver age and licensing requirements
- Awareness that local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions on golf cart operation
Training & Regulations
- Free Online Golf Cart & Utility Vehicle Safety Training
- Golf Cart Parking Regulations (CU Parking & Transportation)
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and for helping ensure legal compliance, driver safety, and uninterrupted insurance coverage for Clemson University. For additional information, please contact our office.
