If you’ve assembled a golf cart from parts (ASPT) and want to drive it on public roads in Florida, you must register it as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV). The process involves meeting state and federal safety standards, gathering documentation, and passing an official inspection.
Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your ASPT cart meets all Florida LSV requirements.
1. Confirm Your Cart Meets LSV Equipment Standards
Florida law requires every LSV to include the following safety components:
- Headlights, tail lights, and brake lights
- Front and rear turn signals
- Rear license plate light or illuminated bracket
- DOT-approved windshield (AS1 or AS4)
- Windshield wiper (manual or electric)
- Driver and passenger seat belts (Type 1 or 2)
- Rearview mirror and either a passenger-side or interior mirror
- Parking brake
- Front and rear reflex reflectors
- SMV triangle emblem
- Operational horn
- DOT-rated tires
- Speed capability between 20 and 25 mph
- GVWR of 3,000 lbs or less
2. Install Components and Retain All Receipts
You must install every required safety feature and retain original receipts for each major component. These receipts must include:
- Your full name, matching the name on the application
- The seller’s name, address, and contact information
Digital copies or altered receipts will not be accepted.
3. Complete All Required Forms
You will need to submit the following forms, each signed in ink:
- Application for Certificate of Title (HSMV 82040)
- Statement of Builder (HSMV 84490)
- Additional Component Listing (HSMV 84491)
- Affidavit for Golf Cart Modified to a Low Speed Vehicle (HSMV 86064)
- Power of Attorney form (HSMV 82053), if applicable
- Proof of identity (valid driver’s license or state-issued ID)
Photocopies or digital signatures are not accepted.
4. Obtain a Certified Weight Slip
Have the completed vehicle weighed at a certified weigh station. The official weight slip must include your name and confirm that the total weight of the cart, passengers, and cargo does not exceed 3,000 lbs.
5. Take Photographs of the Completed Cart
Print clear photos of the following views on plain paper:
- Front
- Rear
- Left side
- Right side
- Dashboard
These photos verify the vehicle’s configuration prior to inspection.
6. Submit Your Application Packet
Mail or deliver your completed packet, along with a $40 inspection fee, to your designated local office.
Payment can be made by check, money order, credit card, or cash.
7. Schedule and Complete the Inspection
A state inspector will verify your VIN and confirm that the vehicle meets all LSV requirements. Do not repaint the cart or replace VIN plates before the inspection. Any use of white-out, strike-throughs, or missing signatures in your application may delay approval.
Final Checklist
- Install and verify all required safety equipment
- Retain original receipts for all major components
- Complete and sign all necessary forms
- Provide valid ID, weight slip, and printed photos
- Submit your documentation and pay the $40 fee
- Pass the state inspection
Once approved, your ASPT golf cart will be legally recognized as a Low Speed Vehicle.