WHAT DOES STREET LEGAL MEAN?

To travel legally on public streets, roads and highways, your personal transportation vehicle must meet all applicable federal and state requirements. Any personal transportation vehicle not in full compliance with Rule 49 CFR 571.500 of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) is not street legal.

That means a street-legal vehicle is not a souped-up golf cart or a tricked-out fleet car. Although, too many owners try to play catch-up by purchasing expensive dealer modifications and aftermarket upgrades. According to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, street-legal personal transportation vehicles are distinguished from golf carts by a strict set of safety, equipment and operating standards. In addition, street-legal vehicles are allowed only on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, and must be operated by a licensed driver.

KEY FEDERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

A windshield that conforms to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) on glazing materials (49 CFR § 571.205).

A VIN that conforms to the requirements of part 565 Vehicle Identification Number of this chapter

Type 1 or Type 2 seat belts conforming with 49 CFR § 571.209 – installed at each designated seating position.

Low-Speed Vehicles (LSV) shall comply with the rear visibility requirements specified in 49 CFR § 571.111 – Standard No. 111; Rear visibility.

An alert sound as required by 49 CFR § 571.141 – Standard No. 141; Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.