JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — During a St. Johns County Commissioner's meeting Monday, the board voted to change the requirements for who can operate golf carts, upholding the same changes made to Florida state law in 2023.
The board voted 5-0 to adopt Ordinance No. 2024-7, amending Ordinance No. 2018-42, requiring anyone driving a golf cart on County roads or multi-use paths who is 18 or younger, must possess a valid learner's permit, driver's license or government-issued ID.
The changes also apply to low-speed vehicles and mini-trucks.
On Oct. 1, a Florida law went into effect requiring teens driving a golf cart to possess a learner's permit or driver's license. A violation of the law would include a noncriminal traffic infraction.
In Florida, a person must be 15 years old to acquire a learner's permit.
The County said adopting the ordinance reflects its interest in prioritizing public safety and the want to conform to new state statutes.
"Public safety in St. Johns County is at the forefront of the Board’s priorities," said Board Chair and District 2 Commissioner Sarah Arnold. "Golf carts are a popular form of transportation in our community due to their convenience and accessibility, which is wonderful. However, we have to maintain a standard of safety for everyone – including pedestrians, the drivers of golf carts, and drivers of traditional vehicles."
The adoption of the ordinance also comes after a series of accidents involving golf carts driven by underage people in St. Johns County, alone.
"Because of underage golf cart drivers, we have seen an increase in accidents with serious bodily injuries," said St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick. "By requiring golf cart drivers under the age of 18 to possess a learner’s permit or driver’s license, we are ensuring the driver has basic knowledge of the rules of the road."
To read the full ordinance, CLICK HERE.