Edisto Beach Golf Cart Rental Guide: Rules, Where You Can Drive, and How to Book

The short answer

Edisto Beach treats golf carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) very differently, and visitors need to know the distinction before renting. Golf carts must have both a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) permit and a Town of Edisto Beach decal, and can only be driven on secondary streets within town limits during daylight hours. LSVs, on the other hand, require DMV registration and insurance but no town decal, and may be driven after dark on any road posted 35 mph or less. Most rental fleets in Edisto now focus on LSVs for this reason, but both vehicle types are available in 4- and 6-seat configurations. Operators must be at least 16 with a valid driver’s license for golf carts, though most rental companies require renters to be 21 or older.

Where you can drive

Golf carts in Edisto Beach are limited to secondary streets within the town limits, and may never be driven on Palmetto Boulevard (SC Hwy 174). If you need to cross Palmetto Boulevard, you must do so directly—crossing at an angle or driving along the highway is not permitted under the town’s rules. Golf carts also must remain within four miles of the address listed on their SCDMV registration. LSVs, by contrast, are allowed on any road posted at 35 mph or less, which includes most of Edisto Beach’s main and side streets, except for higher-speed sections outside town. LSVs can legally operate after dark, while golf carts must stay off the road from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Always check with your rental operator for any additional restrictions or recommended routes, as some companies may set their own boundaries for where their vehicles can be driven.

Who can drive

According to town rules, anyone operating a golf cart in Edisto Beach must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license in their possession at all times. This applies whether you own or rent the cart. However, most rental companies—including Edisto Bike Rentals (Edisto Bike & Golf Cart Rental)—require renters to be at least 21 years old with a valid license, though some operators in town may allow drivers as young as 18. If you plan to let someone else drive, check with the rental company about their policy on additional drivers and minimum ages. For LSVs, the same age and licensing rules apply. Remember, driving without a license or allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a cart or LSV can result in a fine or other penalties under state and local law.

Equipment, seat belts and safety

Golf carts must display a current SCDMV permit and a Town of Edisto Beach decal. The SCDMV registration must show a valid Edisto Beach address. LSVs require DMV registration and state-minimum liability insurance, but do not need a town decal. For safety, all children under 12 riding in a golf cart or LSV must be secured with a seat belt or in a child restraint system—holding a child on your lap is not allowed. LSVs are equipped with seat belts for all passengers, and most rental companies provide basic safety instructions at pick-up. Under current Edisto Beach rules, golf carts cannot be driven after dark regardless of whether they have headlights or taillights, as the town has not adopted the new state ordinance allowing night operation. LSVs, with their full lighting and safety equipment, are permitted after dark on roads posted 35 mph or less. Always follow the operator’s instructions regarding safety features and equipment checks before setting out.

Beaches, sidewalks and parking

Neither golf carts nor LSVs are allowed on the beach itself or on sidewalks in Edisto Beach. Both vehicle types are considered motor vehicles under town rules and must be operated only on approved roadways. When parking, use only designated parking areas for vehicles—do not park on dunes, beach accesses, private property, or block driveways. The town enforces these rules, and violations can result in a fine or the vehicle being towed. If you’re unsure where to park, ask your rental operator for guidance on approved parking locations near popular attractions or beach accesses. Remember, golf carts and LSVs must not impede traffic or emergency vehicle access. Always lock or secure your cart or LSV when leaving it unattended.

How renting works in Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach’s main rental business for golf carts and LSVs is Edisto Bike Rentals (also known as Edisto Bike & Golf Cart Rental). Rentals are available in 4- and 6-seat models. When renting, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, and most companies require renters to be at least 21 years old (some allow 18+). For golf carts, the rental company will ensure the vehicle has the required SCDMV permit and Town of Edisto Beach decal. LSVs come with DMV registration and insurance as required by law. The rental process typically includes a brief orientation on local rules, safe operation, and where you can drive. If you have specific questions about equipment, additional drivers, or accessibility, check with the operator before booking. Be aware that rental companies may set stricter rules than the town or state, so always follow the instructions provided by your rental provider.

Booking on CartBooker

To compare availability and book your Edisto Beach golf cart or LSV rental, visit CartBooker’s Edisto Beach rentals page. You’ll see options for 4- and 6-seat vehicles and can filter by type (golf cart or LSV) depending on your needs. Before finalizing your booking, review the operator’s age and license requirements, as well as any additional policies specific to Edisto Beach. If you have questions about where you can drive, equipment provided, or local rules, use the contact information on CartBooker to reach the rental operator directly. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak vacation seasons, as availability can be limited due to the town’s unique restrictions and growing demand for LSVs.