By the Pacific Beach Golf Cart Rentals & Sales team. Last updated November 2026.
Yes, and it's one of the best ways to see San Diego! We rent and sell street-legal carts right here in Pacific Beach, so we hear this question a lot. Picture rolling to the beach with the ocean breeze on your face and your crew in the back seat.
The catch? You need the right kind of cart. To drive on public roads, it has to be a low-speed vehicle, or LSV, not a standard golf cart.
Golf cart or LSV?
Think of an LSV as a golf cart that graduated to the real road. A standard cart is made for the course and private property. An LSV has the safety gear and paperwork to share the street with cars. They can look a lot alike, so check the title and VIN, not just the looks.
Standard golf cart
Built for golf courses and private property
Private use only
Registration and plates generally not required
Insurance and driver's license depend on use
Low-speed vehicle (LSV)
Built for public roads
Allowed on public roads posted 35 mph or lower
Registration, plates, insurance and a driver's license required
What makes an LSV street legal
An LSV comes ready for the road, with seat belts, headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, a windshield and a VIN. Add registration, insurance and a licensed driver, and you're ready to roll.
Cruising San Diego in an LSV
This is where the fun starts. San Diego feels made for open-air driving, and on streets posted 35 mph or lower, an LSV can take you from the sand to your favorite taco spot. Just remember the rule: LSVs can only drive on public roads posted 35 mph or lower. Sidewalks, boardwalks and freeways are off limits, so map your route before you go. Cities can also set their own limits, so check local rules too.
Ready to get your own?
Before you buy any cart, ask to see the title, VIN and registration status. We make that part easy: every cart on our Buy a Cart page is inspected and verified by our team. Not ready to buy? Rent a street-legal golf cart and take one for a spin. We think you'll love it.
Frequently asked questions
Is every golf cart street legal in San Diego?
No. To drive on public roads, it has to be a low-speed vehicle (LSV). Standard golf carts are for private use.
How fast does an LSV go?
LSVs have a top speed of 25 mph.
Can an LSV go on the freeway?
No. LSVs can only drive on public roads posted 35 mph or lower.
Can I drive an LSV on the sidewalk or boardwalk?
No. Sidewalks and boardwalks are off limits.
Do I need a driver's license and insurance?
Yes. You need a valid driver's license, and the LSV needs registration and insurance.
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This guide is general information, not legal advice. See the California DMV Driver Handbook for current rules.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not legal, safety or professional advice. Laws, routes, prices and product details can change, so confirm them before you act. You use this information at your own risk. To the fullest extent allowed by law, Pacific Beach Golf Cart Rentals LLC dba Pacific Beach Golf Cart Rentals and Sales and its affiliates are not liable for any loss, injury or damage arising from your use of this guide.