Can you drive a golf cart in Hilton Head Island?
Yes, with limits. In Hilton Head Island, a permitted, insured golf cart may use secondary roads posted 35 mph or less, in daylight, within 4 miles of its registration address. Street-legal LSVs may use roads posted 35 mph or less. Carts stay off US 278 and the Cross Island Parkway.
Rules last checked 2026-10-21 by Golf Cart Maps. Published 2026-10-21.
| Vehicle | Allowed | Roads | Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golf cart | limited | Secondary roads posted 35 mph or less | 35 mph | Daylight, within 4 mi of registration, SCDMV permit and insurance |
| Street-legal LSV | yes | Roads posted 35 mph or less | 35 mph | Registered and insured like a car |
The rules
| Topic | Rule | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Golf cart roads | Secondary highway or street posted 35 mph or less | S.C. golf cart law (SCDPS) |
| Distance | Within 4 miles of the registration address (or a gated community entrance) | S.C. golf cart law (SCDPS) |
| Hours | Daylight only, unless a local ordinance says otherwise | S.C. Code 56-2-90 (SCDPS) |
| Driver and permit | Driver 16+ with a license; cart permitted, registered with SCDMV and insured | S.C. golf cart law (SCDPS) |
Roads to avoid
- US 278 (William Hilton Pkwy, Fording Island Rd): Primary road; carts not allowed (crossing at intersections OK)
- Cross Island Parkway: Primary road; carts not allowed
- SC 46: Primary road; carts not allowed (crossing at intersections OK)
Open the live Hilton Head Island map in Golf Cart Maps (golfcartmap.com)
FAQ
Can I drive a golf cart at night in Hilton Head Island?
Not under the state default. South Carolina allows golf carts on public roads in daylight only unless a local ordinance sets other hours.
How far can I drive a golf cart from home?
Within 4 miles of the address on the cart's SCDMV registration, or of a gated community entrance if you live inside one.
Can I drive a golf cart on US 278?
No. US 278 is a primary road, and South Carolina only allows golf carts on secondary roads posted 35 mph or less.
Nearby towns
Not legal advice; posted signs win.