Go-karts fall under low-speed vehicles, off-road, utility vehicles, and off-highway vehicles.
The big question arising here is whether go-karts are street legal. It can be challenging to understand vehicle legality in the United States.
Well, the answer depends on your state of residence.
The laws depend on the state statutes and your go-kart’s vehicle classification. Go-karts that meet specific requirements tend to be street legal.
In the guide, you’ll find state-by-state information about go-kart laws.
We have compiled this information from government websites, legislatures, and statutes.
We do not offer legal advice about go-kart laws. When in doubt, check the guidelines of your local authorities.
12 Requirements For A Street Legal Go-Kart
The next big question must be, “How to make your go-kart street legal?”
Well, the go-kart must meet minimum requirements in every state for driving on the public road. For all vehicles, it must comply with the rules set forth by the law. Below you’ll find a list of the basic requirements for your street legal go-kart.
- Complies with all state and provincial laws in the US and Canada
- Coverage for auto insurance
- Rearview and side-view mirrors
- A steering wheel measuring 13 inches in diameter
- The engine hood
- Windshield wipers and windshields
- Seat belt
- Horns
- A braking system compliant with automotive standards
- Speedometer and odometer
- A license plate issued by the state
- Blinkers, headlights, and taillights
Go-Kart Laws By State
There are different laws regarding go-karts in each state. You can check a list below to see if go-karts are street legal in your state. Even though this information applies to most go-karts, it’s always best to get more information directly from your state.
Go-Kart Laws in Alabama
Driving a go-kart on Alabama’s streets is illegal unless it is registered with the DMV and equipped with all the necessary safety parts. Additionally, the driver must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
Go-karts are considered Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) in Alabama and only allowed to run during daylight hours.
In general, low-speed vehicles are not allowed to pass over highways and are also limited to 25 mph on the road. Alabama also prohibits the operation of off-road go-karts on public streets since they are dedicated to off-road use.
Go-Kart Laws in Alaska
Go-karts fall into the Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) category in Alaska, subject to stringent laws. It’s not legal to drive go-karts on public roadways unless they are registered at the DMV. The go-kart needs certain parts to function correctly.
There are some exceptions to Alaskan weather conditions, like driving a go-kart on the shoulders of roads. There are exceptions if you plan to cross the snow-covered road or if snow conditions make regular vehicles unsafe to go on the road. The Alaskan government has a history of rigorously enforcing these regulations.
Go-Kart Laws in Arizona
Arizona allows low-speed vehicles (LSVs) that do not emit pollutants and have a top speed of 25 mph to be registered. Additionally, you would have to make sure that your go-kart is compliant with federal safety regulations to register it.
Arizona allows off-road go-karts to qualify as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) if built for terrain use and weighed less than 2,500 lbs. In addition, you must register and display a valid OHV decal on your off-road go-kart. You may drive your go-kart on the street if it passes the inspection and registration.
Go-Kart Laws in Arkansas
According to Arkansas, off-highway vehicles, including go-karts, can be up to 75-inches or less in width, weigh no more than 800 pounds, have an engine of no more than 650 cc, and designed as off-road vehicles.
If you have a go-kart that meets specific requirements, you can register it for street use without registering it for private use. You may only drive an unregistered off-road go-kart on public roads while hunting or farming, crossing the highway, or going from one trail to another. The use of a go-kart on public roads is generally illegal in Arkansas.
Go-Kart Laws in California
Depending on its type, it may be possible to register the go-kart as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV). LSVs in California must have four wheels, be under 3,000 pounds, and meet certain equipment and specification requirements. The speed limit on public streets must also be less than 35 mph.
Off-road go-karts classify as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) in California. The registration of all OHVs is a legal requirement. Upon registration, you’ll receive a green or red sticker.
After that, you can drive your go-kart on unpaved roads and public lands in each county. You can even make your go-kart street and highway legal if it meets further requirements.
Go-Kart Laws in Colorado
It’s interesting how Colorado views the legality of go-karts on public roads. Each Colorado municipality may make this decision autonomously; you will need to directly contact the DMV in your district.
Low-speed electric vehicles (LSVs) and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) may qualify as go-karts. Upon registration, go-karts must have turn signals, mirrors, reflectors, windshields, and glazing material, among others.
These off-road vehicles are either All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) or Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs). It is generally prohibited to drive an ATV or UTV on the street in Colorado.
Go-Kart Laws in Connecticut
Go-karts are not legal on Connecticut’s public roadways, making it one of the few states prohibiting this practice. You cannot register a go-kart in Connecticut, even if its specifications match those of other states.
Connecticut has no law regulating low-speed vehicles, so go-karts are not street legal. The Senate passed a bill that allowed neighborhood electric vehicles, but the House has not yet taken it up. Off-road go-karts are no different. However, they do not meet street-legality standards.
Go-Kart Laws in Delaware
Generally, go-karts are only legal on the street in Delaware if they meet the LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle) requirements. LSVs must possess all the necessary equipment, including headlights, brakes, indicators, windshields, parking brakes, steering wheels, etc.
If you want to drive your go-kart on the street legally, you must have a valid driver’s license and insurance on your kart. The kart must have four wheels, a maximum speed of 25 mph, and be no heavier than 2,500 pounds.
It is not permitted to operate off-road go-karts on public highways and roads and must be registered.
Go-Kart Laws in Florida
Florida’s Laws Governing Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) require vehicles to have four wheels, be electrically powered, and move between 20 and 25 mph. To find out if your go-kart qualifies, you should contact your local DMV.
Recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs) include off-road go-karts. While you can title your go-kart, you can’t register it. It is illegal to use ROVs on roads unless they are registered and licensed.
You may do so on unpaved roads and approved public lands, however. OHVs can’t legally operate on public roads and highways.
Go-Kart Laws in Georgia
You can either classify your go-kart as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) or a Personal Transportation Vehicle (PTV) in Georgia.
Go-karts can be classified as PTVs if they have at least four wheels, a top speed of 20 mph, a capacity of less than eight, and an empty weight of 1,375 pounds. Your go-kart will become street legal if you register it and install all the necessary parts.
It is illegal to operate an off-road go-kart on public roads or highways in Georgia since they belong to the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) category. There are, however, specific trails and private properties where you can ride it.
Go-Kart Laws in Hawaii
It is not legal to drive a go-kart on the streets in Hawaii. In order to legally operate on roads, they must also meet all of the requirements. They must obtain a 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and undergo the proper registration process.
Furthermore, a go-kart must have four wheels, travel at least 25 mph, and not exceed it. Moreover, there is a 3,000-pound weight limit for go-karts, so you will need to make sure that yours meets it.
You can drive an off-road go-kart on private property and approved public lands, but you can’t drive on the street.
Go-Kart Laws in Idaho
Several go-karts are legal on Idaho’s streets but must meet the low-speed vehicle (LSV) or neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) registration criteria. Go-karts must have certain specifications, be electric, and have no emissions in Idaho.
Idaho requires owners of off-road go-karts to register as Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs). There are no restrictions on your driving on public trails or private property.
Depending on their specifications, you can sometimes drive go-karts on state, federal, county, and state roads. As a minimum, you will also require safety equipment, a restricted license plate, and a valid driver’s license.
Go-Kart Laws in Illinois
There is a class of go-karts classified as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) in Illinois. It is legal to drive these go-karts on the road with a 30 mph speed limit. Nevertheless, there are some requirements that you must meet.
Go-karts need titles and registration with the Secretary of State’s Office and must meet all safety standards.
Illinois requires a title and a registration for off-road go-karts. Private property is free for riding, but public trails require a decal for access. The use of off-road go-karts on public streets is illegal. Crossing a road is the only exception.
Go-Kart Laws in Indiana
Go-karts can qualify for Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) or Offroad Vehicle (ORV) status in Indiana. Public roadways must allow LSVs only if they meet the required requirements and are registered correctly. Registering will also need a valid driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
In Indiana, all off-road vehicles purchased after December 31, 2003, must be registered. Off-road go-karts cost $30 to register for three years. You should also display your decal.
Generally, registered ORVs are not allowed on limited-access highways; however, they can drive on public roadways. Moreover, it is only operational between sunrise and sunset. You should check the laws for your municipality on go-karts and ORVs since they may differ from city to city in Indiana.
Go-Kart Laws in Iowa
The registration of your go-kart should be either Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) or Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) if you wish to drive it legally on public streets in Iowa.
To operate a valid LSV, it must weigh less than 3,000 pounds dry, be registered, and be insured. Further, you will need equipment such as parking brakes, lights, windscreen, and turn signals.
If you own an OHV and plan to use it on public roads, Iowa does not permit that, even if they are registered. OHVs may legally operate on certain streets in Iowa, however.
Go-Kart Laws in Kansas
Kansas does not classify go-karts under the various vehicle categories. Consequently, in Kansas, it is almost impossible to drive a go-kart on the street legally.
A golf cart, work-site utility vehicle, and any micro utility vehicle do not qualify as ATVs because they have straddled seats. If you are unsure of where your go-kart falls, you should contact your local municipality.
Go-Kart Laws in Kentucky
Driving go-karts on the streets is legal if they qualify as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) and are properly registered. As long as the vehicle complies with equipment requirements and meets weight and speed limits, you’ll need to make sure it has the equipment installed.
In Kentucky, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are vehicles used for off-road recreational activities. Whenever you drive a go-kart in this category, you must have a title. It is not necessary to register an All-Terrain Vehicle, and it is not allowed to transport it on public roads.
Go-Kart Laws in Louisiana
Off-road go-kart owners have good news. Although you can’t drive your go-kart on roads or highways, there are exceptions for using and crossing public streets.
Also, you may drive your off-road go-kart on highway shoulders starting 30 minutes after sunrise and disappearing 30 minutes before sunset. You may be required to present your vehicle insurance and registration documents.
The laws regarding Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) in Louisiana are some of the strictest in the country. Register the vehicle, ensure it has all 17 essential safety features, and provide its VIN.
There’s a good chance you will only get a go-kart approval if it runs at less than 20 mph and no higher than 25 mph.
Go-Kart Laws in Maine
It is only possible to register a go-kart as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) in Maine if it meets the weight and speed restrictions and has all the necessary parts. Maine does not allow you to register go-karts as LSVs for safety reasons.
The state of Maine, however, classifies off-road go-karts as All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) vehicles. You may not operate an off-road vehicle on public roads or highways.
Except under emergency circumstances or if a municipality in Maine grants off-road vehicle access, this rule is not applicable. This is rare, however, and as a result, go-karts in Maine are not legal for the streets. Registration allows you to drive them on off-road trails.
Go-Kart Laws in Maryland
Maryland has relatively strict laws regarding street-legal go-karts. A low-speed vehicle (LSV) may be a more likely option for your go-kart.
That means it should exceed 20 mph while remaining below 25 mph. It should come with an electric motor, meet all component requirements, and weigh no more than 2,500 pounds.
There is no doubt that you must follow Maryland’s laws when you own an off-road go-kart. The Department of Natural Resources requires annual registration of all off-road vehicles (ORVs). Additionally, you cannot ride on any public roads or highways without a registration sticker.
Go-Kart Laws in Massachusetts
Unfortunately, Massachusetts has stringent laws regarding go-karts on the street. As Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs), go-karts must meet a lot of requirements to be registered. Find out from the Department of Motor Vehicles if your go-kart qualifies.
Your go-kart is more likely to be classified as an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV). The term off-highway vehicles refer to any type of recreational or off-road vehicle.
They permit private property and public trails; however, you may not ride an OHV on public roads or highways. There is only one exception: crossing a street.
Go-Kart Laws in Michigan
You can apply if your go-kart meets all the requirements of Michigan’s Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) laws. With the speed limitation of 20 – 25 mph, primarily electric go-karts qualify.
On the other hand, Michigan allows street-legal off-road go-karts. You will receive an off-road title when purchasing an off-road vehicle.
To convert this title for road use, your go-kart must include headlights, horns, tail lights, indicators, mirrors, safety belts, windshields, brake lights, brakes, and treaded tires that comply with DOT standards.
Those who own off-road go-karts will appreciate this news. As of March 2019, you can make your go-kart road legal in Michigan.
Go-Kart Laws in Minnesota
Go-karts typically fall under the All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) category in Minnesota. There must be at least three tires on your go-kart and no more than 6. Additionally, its dry weight cannot exceed 2,000 lbs, and its total width cannot exceed 65″.
Off-road go-karts are street legal in Minnesota if they meet the requirements and are registered. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will allow you for highway usage if your kart equips with headlights, taillights, horns, mirrors, and other mandatory parts.
Go-Kart Laws in Mississippi
Mississippi classifies go-karts as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) or Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs). Four-wheeled LSVs must comply with transportation requirements, have a 20 – 25 mph speed, and weigh less than 3,000 pounds.
To drive your kart on public streets legally, you’ll also need to ensure that it complies with FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards).
If the operator has a valid license and a safety certificate, it is only legal to operate an Off-Road Vehicle on public property in Mississippi, including trails, parks, and forests. Unfortunately, you cannot drive off-road vehicles, including go-karts on public roads.
Go-Kart Laws in Missouri
You can register your go-kart as an LSV in Missouri, but the requirements are very similar to those for cars and trucks. The criteria are stringent, so making it street legal may prove quite challenging.
Despite having no straddled handlebars, off-road go-karts do not fall into Missouri’s Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) category. Instead, they fall under the category of Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROHV), which does not require titles or registration.
If you have a ROHV equipped with the proper safety equipment, such as a roll cage, lights, seat belts, brakes, and so forth, you can register your vehicle and make it street legal.
Go-Kart Laws in Montana
The state of Montana has laws governing low-speed vehicles (LSV) and medium-speed vehicles (MSV). LSVs must have a VIN, all required safety parts, four wheels, a maximum speed of 20 – 40 mph, and come powered by electricity.
Besides being electric-powered and under 5,001 pounds in weight, MSVs must speed up to 45 mph. You can legally drive your go-kart on the streets of Montana if it qualifies as an LSV or MSD.
Likewise, off-road go-kart drivers can rejoice. It’s possible to go off-road only on trails approved by the government, not cross-country, and you’ll also have to follow the sound emission regulations.
If your off-road kart is registered correctly and you have a valid driving license, you can register it to use on public roads.
Go-Kart Laws in Nebraska
In Nebraska, electric go-karts registered as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) must travel 20-25 mph, have a dry weight of fewer than 3,000 lbs, and meet all other safety requirements. Nebraska doesn’t allow you to rate go-karts as LSVs without some upgrades.
Most off-road go-karts fit into the Utility Type Vehicle (UTV) category. It can pass as a UTV if it is 74″ wide, less than 180″ long, has 2,000 pounds of dry weight, and has four non-highway tires.
In order to title your go-kart, you must register it as a UTV. In contrast, you may not drive your off-road go-kart on public roads.
Go-Kart Laws in Nevada
Electric go-karts similar to golf carts may be eligible for registration as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs). If it has a dry weight of fewer than 3,000 pounds, it must be within the stipulated speed limits (20 to 25 mph). Moreover, you’ll find the list of the required parts for your go-kart.
Generally, Nevada requires registration and title off-road go-karts. As off-highway vehicles (OHVs), they are not permitted on public streets by default. The age and driver’s license requirements for operating an OHV are also not applicable.
Your go-kart could become street legal, however, if you register it with the DMV after a thorough inspection and approval.
Go-Kart Laws in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers two different classifications for go-karts. You can either register your go-kart as a Low-Speed Neighborhood Vehicle (LSNV) or bring it off the road.
Go-karts must have an electric motor and be capable of speeds higher than 20mph and lower than 25 mph. You may also need to upgrade your go-kart if it does not meet other requirements.
If you choose this route, it is more likely to be registered as an Off-High Recreational Vehicle (OHRV). You may operate your off-road go-kart only on private property or on officially approved public trails. New Hampshire does not allow street-legal off-road go-karts.
Go-Kart Laws in New Jersey
Your go-kart may not be eligible for registration as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) in New Jersey. This state requires all LSVs to be electric. Go-karts powered by gas or diesel do not qualify as Low-Speed Vehicles.
The vehicle must be over 20 mph and under 25 mph as well. Also, it cannot operate on roads with speeds over 25 mph.
The state of New Jersey is also not allowing street-legal off-road vehicles unless they are Class 1 (“off-road vehicles”). Licenses, Registrations, insurances, and inspections are all required for Class 1 ORVs.
It is mandatory to register your off-road go-kart even if you are off-road karting. However, there is no requirement for a license or permit. In order to operate an off-road go-kart, you must be at least 14 years old.
Go-Kart Laws in New Mexico
If you want your go-kart to be street legal in New Mexico, you can either register it as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) or as an Off-Road Vehicle (ORV). The requirements for LSVs, however, are strict.
If you want to race your go-kart, then it should have a speed of between 20 and 25 mph, as well as all the right parts. In most cases, go-karts do not qualify by default without significant modifications.
You may only ride an off-road go-kart on public roadways if it is an off-road model. If you wish to operate an off-road go-kart on public land, you need a permit.
Besides being at least 18 years of age, you must also have a valid driver’s license. In addition, go-karts off-road require DOT-approved helmets and eye protection.
Go-Kart Laws in New York
The Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) laws of New York permit driving on public roads, but some local or state authorities may prohibit this based on safety concerns. It is important to note that your go-kart has to qualify as a low-speed vehicle.
Off-road go-karts are known in New York as All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). It may be necessary to register ATVs in your area. It is illegal to drive off-road go-karts on public highways or roadways, except for crossings or agricultural uses.
Go-Kart Laws in North Carolina
In North Carolina, off-road vehicles (ORVs) and off-highway vehicles (OHVs) do not have classifications. Generally, there are no regulations for ATVs, but they are considered straddled vehicles. Due to this, it isn’t likely that you can legally drive a go-kart off-road in North Carolina.
If you register and license your go-kart as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), you could drive it on roadways. If you want to register a go-kart as an LSV, you need to be 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
You also need to ensure that your go-kart meets all the DMV specifications for safety.
Go-Kart Laws in North Dakota
According to North Dakota Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) laws, you can register your go-kart according to its specifications and requirements.
North Dakota classifies off-road go-karts as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV). The North Dakota Department of Transportation requires registration and title for all off-road go-karts operated on public lands.
To operate an OHV on public roads, the speed limit should not exceed 55 mph. It needs headlights, taillights, horn, speedometer, brake light, mirror, and at least 350cc. Verify whether you can ride an OHV on public streets by contacting your county authorities.
Go-Kart Laws in Ohio
You must ensure that your go-kart comes equipped with the required safety equipment and meets the specifications if you intend to register it as an Under-Speed Vehicle (USV), Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), or Utility Vehicle (UTV). Inspecting and registering these vehicles allows them on public roads.
Off-road go-karts in Ohio classify as All-Purpose Vehicles (APV). Wheeled, self-propelled APVs are primarily designed for cross-country use and steered by a steering system.
To use an off-road go-kart, you must register it unless you intend to use it only privately. It is illegal to drive your off-road go-kart on a public street unless you are crossing the street.
Go-Kart Laws in Oklahoma
If you meet the required qualifications, you may register your go-kart according to Oklahoma’s Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) laws. You must register and title your off-road go-kart.
Unless they’re manufactured especially for off-highway use, off-road go-karts are considered All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in Oklahoma.
In addition, the trailer must be under 60″ wide, weigh no more than 1,500 lbs unloaded, and have two or more low-pressure tires. Oklahoma does not allow off-road go-karts on paved streets, so you cannot drive there.
Go-Kart Laws in Oregon
Vehicles titled and registered in Oregon must be Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV). There is a possibility that your go-kart will qualify for an LSV if it meets its requirements.
The off-road go-karts in Oregon qualify as class IV ATVs. Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs) and Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) fall under this category. Your go-kart cannot exceed 30 mph or weigh more than 2,500 pounds.
You’ll also need an ATV sticker, insurance, and title if it’s less than 80″ wide. You must read the full off-road requirements before you use your vehicle. Oregon cannot legalize off-road go-karts.
Go-Kart Laws in Pennsylvania
If you can get your go-kart titled, registered, and insured in Pennsylvania, you can register it as a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV). Street legality will require a windshield, turn signals, headlights, tail lights, seat belts, and other mandatory features and specs.
The speed needs to be between 20-25 mph, which means it would likely need to be electrically powered.
Pennsylvania considers off-road go-karts Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) and does not allow them on public roads. It’s not legal to operate one, and they’re prohibited on public or private property.
Go-Kart Laws in Rhode Island
Laws governing off-road vehicles (ORVs) and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) in Rhode Island are extremely strict. It is best to contact the county where you live to find out if you can register your street go-kart. Each county in Rhode Island has its laws governing LSVs.
Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) are decidedly unsuitable for operation on public lands or highways by the Transportation of Motor Vehicles. It is illegal for off-road go-karts to operate on public highways. Therefore, you cannot use your off-road go-kart on the road.
Go-Kart Laws in South Carolina
Licensed Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) in South Carolina can only be factory-made and include all the required parts and features.
It is quite challenging to register a go-kart as a motor vehicle in South Carolina since you will need many upgrades. The go-kart is therefore ineligible as an LSV.
South Carolina does not permit off-road go-karts on public roads. You may only use them on a public road to cross it once, and then they are not street-legal. Nevertheless, you are allowed to drive your go-kart off-road on private property and in public places if they are approved.
Go-Kart Laws in South Dakota
You may operate Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) on public roads in South Dakota, provided they comply with all regulations and do not exceed speed limits of 25 mph. In addition, you need to make sure that your go-kart has certain safety features.
South Dakota classifies off-road go-karts as Off-Road Vehicles (ORV). Despite the titling requirement, you cannot register an off-road go-kart on a highway.
The law clearly prohibits people from driving off-road vehicles on public streets or highways. You can only cross the road between two sides if it’s one way.
Go-Kart Laws in Tennessee
Go-karts fall under several vehicle classes in Tennessee. If its speed is greater than 20 mph but no longer than 25 mph, it is a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV).
It qualifies as a Medium Speed Vehicle (MSV) when it is over 20 mph but less than 25 mph; it qualifies as a Medium Speed Vehicle (MSV). LSVs and MSVs must meet the standards in 49 CFR 571.500.
Go-karts classified as off-road vehicles (OHV) can be Class I or Class II. The laws of the state prohibit the usage of off-road go-karts on the street.
Nevertheless, if you enjoy driving your go-kart on the street and highways, you’re allowed to do so. Those who wish to only drive on off-road trails need not register their go-karts.
Go-Kart Laws in Texas
Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) in Texas conform to the federal definition and regulations. Your go-kart must meet all LSV requirements, and you’ll need a valid driver’s license.
The State of Texas qualifies off-road go-karts as Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs) or Utility Vehicles (UTVs). Driving on public land requires you to have working brakes, mufflers, head and tail lights, and a spark arrestor.
There is even the possibility of obtaining a license plate to ride your off-highway vehicle on public roads whose speed limit is less than 35 mph.
Go-Kart Laws in Utah
Public roads in Utah are open to Low-speed Vehicles (LSV). The Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (UDMV) will allow you to register an electric-powered go-kart with up to four seats if you meet other safety requirements. You will likely need to upgrade your kart.
Utah classifies off-road go-karts as Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV), specifically, like Type II All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). In this class, drivers will compete in off-road vehicles, such as dune buggy and sand rail. Additionally, your vehicle must meet other requirements.
You must register your off-road go-kart as a recreational vehicle if you intend to use it on public lands, roads, or trails. The Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can assist you with this. Having said that, Utah can make go-karts street legal.
Go-Kart Laws in Vermont
There are relatively strict rules for operating Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) in Vermont. Go-karts must have at least four wheels, run on electricity, be emission-free, and have a dry weight of 3,000 pounds or less, along with all the necessary safety features.
Certain local public safety authorities may be able to declare LSVs illegal in certain places.
The State of Vermont considers off-road go-karts to be all-terrain vehicles (ATV) if they weigh 1,700 pounds and have a width of 64 inches or more.
It’s essential to register a go-kart if you intend to drive it on public lands and trails. Vermont does not generally allow go-karts on its streets.
Go-Kart Laws in Virginia
Virginia allows Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) on public roads if they are correctly equipped and meet specific requirements. The strict requirements in Virginia may make it difficult to register a go-kart as an LSV.
In Virginia, it is a statute that go-karts do not qualify as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) since go-karts have a low center of gravity generally used in go-kart racing on level surfaces and are not allowed for use on roadways.
Buchanan County is an exception to the general rule that ATVs are not legal on the road.
Go-Kart Laws in Washington
It is legal to operate a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) and a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) in Washington. Go-karts aren’t that easy to register as LSVs or NEVs unless they meet all the requirements, such as weight, speed, and power.
The off-road go-kart classifies as an Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) machine in Washington, and you can operate them on trails and recreational parks with a use permit.
If you don’t register your off-road go-kart for street use, you can’t use them on public roads and highways. If you plan to use your go-kart on the road, you’ll need a metal plate marking the fact.
Go-Kart Laws in West Virginia
West Virginia restricts the use of low-speed vehicles (LSVs) to roads with an indicated speed limit of 25 mph or less based on the federal definition. Registration for LSVs isn’t easy because of the various specifications and parts requirements.
Go-karts with off-road capability are challenging to categorize in West Virginia. Rather than being classified as ATVs, they are considered Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) in this state, which refers to jeeps and pickups.
You may be able to use your go-kart as a Utility-Terrain Vehicle (UTV) in some cases. It is legal for UTVs to operate on single-lane and two-lane roads without a centerline. You should contact the DMV for more information.
Go-Kart Laws in Wisconsin
The local municipality must approve Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) on local roads in Wisconsin. In addition, it must have four wheels powered by electricity and weigh no more than 3,000 pounds. Moreover, they must adhere to a list of safety components.
If the off-road go-kart meets certain specifications and you drive it within Wisconsin’s municipal and county ordinances, it can be street legal.
There are two types of ATVs: All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV). There are even UTV/ATV routes in some parts of Wisconsin.
Go-Kart Laws in Wyoming
Currently, Wyoming does not have a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) law. They have a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) category instead. You can drive your go-kart on the road if it meets the required specifications, has the necessary parts, and weighs between 300 and 3,000 lbs.
A go-kart that you plan to use only on public trails in Wyoming must be registered annually because they are considered Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs). The dry weight of an ORV can determine whether it qualifies as a Class 1 or Class 3.
Off-road go-karts that meet certain part specifications and requirements can become street legal in some counties. As an example, some ORV street-legal roads exist in Fremont and Carbon counties.
Final Thoughts
We really hope this guide helped you with your questions regarding the legality of go-karts in your state.
On-road go-karts that meet the requirements of state statutes for off-road (sometimes recreational) go-karts are usually street legal. State governments can determine how to treat them under their respective statutes.
It depends on the particular state. But in general, you can expect to treat on-road go-karts like any other vehicle. It doesn’t matter whether they remain covered by an exemption (such as power vehicles).
