Renting a Golf Cart? Here’s What to Know First

Whether you’re renting a golf cart for the beach, a wedding, or a company retreat, picking the right rental company makes all the difference. At Garrett’s Golf Cars, we’ve helped plenty of customers find the perfect fit, and over time, we’ve heard just about every question you can think of.

 Here’s a rundown of the questions we get most often and what we tell people when they ask.

What should I look for in a golf cart rental company?

There are a few key things to watch for:

• Cart variety: Some situations call for a standard 4-passenger cart, while others might need a larger option or a street-legal LSV. Look for a golf cart dealership that offers different sizes and styles.
  
• Delivery options: Having the cart delivered to your location (whether it’s a beach house, event venue, or office) can save you a lot of time and inconvenience.
  
• Local knowledge: Rental companies that are familiar with the area can offer helpful advice about where you can legally drive and park your cart.
  
• Clear pricing: Transparent, upfront pricing makes it easier to compare options and avoid surprise fees.

If you’re in the early stages of comparing options, browsing a few rentals can give you a sense of what’s available and what to expect.

How do I know if my rental cart is street legal?

To determine if a golf cart is street legal, you’ll need to check two key things: the paperwork and the equipment.

Paperwork Checklist

For a golf cart to be driven legally on public roads, it must have:

• A valid driver’s license for the operator
• A 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Proof of liability insurance from a DMV-recognized provider
• Registration documents
• A DMV-issued permit decal

All of these documents must be with you anytime you’re operating the cart on public roads.

Equipment Requirements

Even if your paperwork is in order, the cart itself needs to meet certain safety standards. A street-legal golf cart must be equipped with:

• Headlights and taillights
• Turn signals
• Seatbelts for every passenger

All of our rental golf carts at Garrett’s Golf Cars come fully equipped with essential safety features, so you can rest easy knowing your cart is street legal and ready for the road.

Is it better to rent from a local company or a national chain?

From what we hear, most customers prefer working with a local company. Here’s why:

• Personal service: We know our regular renters by name and genuinely enjoy helping new customers, too.
• Faster response: If anything comes up during your rental, you’re not waiting on a national call center.
• Community knowledge: Local rental companies can recommend where to park, what areas allow carts, and even fun spots to check out.

When you rent from a local company like Garrett’s, you get more than just a cart. You get a professional and available team ready to provide solutions to your needs. 

Can I rent a golf cart for a wedding or corporate event?

Absolutely! More and more brides and grooms use golf carts to get around large venues or to add a fun touch to their big day. For company retreats, it’s an easy way to get teams moving comfortably across large properties.

If you’re planning a big day, take a look at how golf cart rental can make your wedding unforgettable, and for work trips, this guide to using golf carts at corporate retreats is a great starting point.

How far in advance should I book?

If it’s summer, a holiday or you’re headed to the beach, be sure to book early. We usually recommend 2-3 weeks out ot make sure you get the cart you want.

Do I need a special license to drive a rental cart?

In most areas, you just need a valid driver’s license and to be at least 16 years old. 

Do golf carts work well at the beach?

They sure do; just make sure you’re in a beach town that allows them. Many families say it’s the easiest way to get all your stuff to and from the shore, especially if you’re hauling beach chairs, coolers, or little ones. Bonus: parking is way easier.

If you’re heading to a coastal spot, our Ultimate Guide to Golf Cart Rentals in SC Beaches breaks it all down, including what’s allowed in popular towns like Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island.

Choose Your Rental

Choosing a golf cart rental company doesn’t have to be complicated. Look for a team that offers quality carts, knows the area, and treats you like a neighbor, not a number. We’d love to be that team for your next event. 

Stop by our Greenville or Charleston locations, give us a call, or contact us online to talk about making your next event convenient and unforgettable.