St. Augustine Golf Cart Rental Guide: Rules, Where You Can Drive, and How to Book

The short answer

Golf cart rentals in St. Augustine are limited to a specific downtown route, not the entire city. Under City Ordinance 2019-02, rental carts may operate on streets in the historic district posted 25 mph or less. This includes Avenida Menendez, King St, Cordova St, and the roads that ring the St. George St pedestrian mall, but not on the mall itself. Rental operators such as Pirate Island Carts, Fun Rentals St. Augustine, Saint City Scooters, Seaside Adventures, and Solano Cycle St. Augustine provide 4- and 6-seat carts for these routes. Some operators allow crossing the Bridge of Lions to reach the St. Augustine Lighthouse on Anastasia Island, but renters must confirm this with the shop, as guidance on bridge access varies. US-1, Vilano Bridge, and roads posted above 35 mph are off limits. Beach driving and sidewalks are prohibited for all carts.

Where you can drive

The core area for golf cart use is the historic district, as defined by City Ordinance 2019-02. You can drive on Avenida Menendez, King St, Cordova St, and the network of streets surrounding the St. George St pedestrian zone. The pedestrian-only St. George St itself is strictly off limits to all vehicles, including golf carts. US-1 (which includes San Marco Ave and Ponce de Leon Blvd) is not permitted for golf cart travel, nor are any roads posted above 35 mph. Rental operators’ route sheets indicate that their carts may cross the Bridge of Lions to Anastasia Island, but only as far as the St. Augustine Lighthouse—beyond that point, speed limits increase and carts must turn back. The Vilano Bridge (SR A1A North) is closed to rental carts. Outside the city, St. Johns County Ordinance 2018-42 applies, with designated county roads and multi-use paths, but St. Augustine Beach police do not allow traditional (non-LSV) carts on public streets. Always check with your rental operator for the most current, specific route guidance before setting out.

Who can drive

Driver requirements depend on age and the type of cart. Under Florida Statute 316.212, anyone under 18 must have a learner’s permit or driver’s license to operate a golf cart. Drivers 18 and older need to present a government-issued photo ID. For Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)—which are street-legal carts capable of 20-25 mph and plated for use on roads posted up to 35 mph—a valid driver’s license is required, regardless of age. LSVs must also be titled, registered, and insured with state-minimum liability cover (PIP and PDL) under FS 320.01(41). If you plan to rent a cart for use on the beach side or outside the city, expect it to be an LSV and to provide a valid driver’s license for all drivers. Always confirm ID and license requirements with your rental shop, especially if multiple people in your group plan to drive.

Equipment, seat belts and safety

Safety features are required for all rental carts, especially if you plan to drive at night. For nighttime operation, carts must be equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors, as specified by Florida Statute 316.212. LSVs, which are plated and registered, are required to have these features at all times. Seat belts are standard on most rental carts, especially LSVs, but check with your operator to confirm. Before heading out, inspect your cart for working lights, signals, and seat belts. Rental operators are responsible for ensuring their vehicles meet these requirements, but it’s wise to double-check before accepting your cart. Remember that golf carts are smaller and less visible than cars, so always drive defensively, yield to pedestrians, and obey all posted traffic signs and signals.

Beaches, sidewalks and parking

Golf carts are not permitted on the beach, sidewalks, or bike paths anywhere in St. Augustine or St. Johns County. This is strictly enforced under both city and county ordinances. Parking for golf carts is generally allowed in standard vehicle spaces on public streets within the historic district, as long as you follow posted parking regulations. Do not park on sidewalks, in loading zones, or in areas reserved for pedestrians. The St. George St pedestrian mall is completely off limits for both driving and parking. On Anastasia Island, if you cross the Bridge of Lions (with operator approval), you may park at the St. Augustine Lighthouse if space is available, but always follow local signage and rules. For any questions about parking locations or restrictions, check with your rental operator or look for city signage.

How renting works in St. Augustine

St. Augustine’s golf cart rental market is served by Pirate Island Carts, Fun Rentals St. Augustine, Saint City Scooters, Seaside Adventures, and Solano Cycle St. Augustine. All offer 4- and 6-seat carts suitable for families or small groups. When renting, you’ll need to provide a valid driver’s license or government photo ID, depending on your age and the cart type. Most rental carts are LSVs, especially for use in beach areas or on roads posted up to 35 mph. You’ll receive a route sheet from your rental operator outlining where you can and cannot drive, including any current guidance on crossing the Bridge of Lions. Night driving is possible if the cart is properly equipped with required lights and signals. Insurance is required for LSVs, and all LSVs must be titled and registered. For traditional (non-LSV) carts, use is limited to the historic district and roads posted 25 mph or less. Always review the specific terms, route maps, and safety instructions provided by your rental shop before heading out.

Booking on CartBooker

To compare availability and book your golf cart rental with any of St. Augustine’s authorized operators, visit CartBooker’s St. Augustine page. You can view cart sizes (4- and 6-seaters), see which operators serve your preferred area, and check details about route restrictions and equipment. Since routes and bridge access can change, confirm your planned itinerary with the rental shop before booking. Bring your required ID or license when you pick up your cart, and review the operator’s safety and route instructions to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience exploring St. Augustine’s historic district and, if permitted, Anastasia Island.