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ALABAMA
Low speed vehicles are treated in the same manner as other motor
vehicles. Alabama requires that any vehicle operating on public streets and highways
must be
titled, registered and insured. |
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ALASKA
The State of Alaska has passed LSV legislation, LSVs are
restricted to roads with speed limits up to 35 mph, however, local
jurisdictions may limit their usage. |
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ARIZONA
Arizona will register low speed electric vehicles if certain
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration guidelines, as
defined in Arizona Revised Statute 28-101.32 are met. The vehicles
will be subject to registration on an annual or biennial cycle and
the usual vehicle license tax and fees. |
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ARKANSAS
Any vehicle that meets federal highway safety standards for
operation on public streets and highways may be registered. If a
licensed vehicle is operated on a public thoroughfare, and is not
capable of operating at speeds consistent with the prevailing
traffic flow, the operator would be in jeopardy of receiving a
citation. |
CALIFORNIA
California DMV registers LSVs for on-road use if the vehicle is
going to be operated on public streets. LSVs must meet applicable
federal safety standards and be certified by the California Air
Resources Board (CARB). LSVs are registered as passenger vehicles
and issued automobile plates. Owners of registered LSVs must
comply with financial responsibility laws and a driver license is
needed to operate the vehicle. LSVs are restricted from roadways
where the speed limit is greater than 35 mph. Manufacturers are
required to affix an LSV decal to the vehicle. The dealers are
also required to have the new owner sign a statement acknowledging
they understand the information on the decal. The dealer retains
the original statement and provides the new owner with a copy. |
COLORADO
Colorado does register LSV’S. Colorado Revised Statute 42-1-102(58)
states "motor vehicle includes a neighborhood electric vehicle."
NEVs cannot operate over the state highway system, and are permitted
but not required to display the slow moving vehicle emblem. Each
local law enforcement agency has the authority to regulate the
operation of neighborhood electric vehicles on streets under their
jurisdiction. The vehicles must have a 17 digit VIN. Colorado does
register NEVs and they have a special license plate that states that
the vehicle is a "Neighborhood Electric Vehicle." |
CONNECTICUT
Connecticut does not license or register LSVs. It is possible to
register a golf cart, but not primarily for road use. We intend to
submit legislation at some point in the future concerning low speed
vehicles. |
DELAWARE
The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles submitted legislation to the
Delaware General Assembly for consideration. Hopefully, this
legislation will pass this legislative session. Delaware currently
has no laws restricting LSVs as long as the vehicles meet all
federal motor vehicle standards for passenger vehicles. |
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FLORIDA
Florida
allows LSVs to be operated on streets where the posted speed limit
is 35 mph or less. LSVs are subject to the same license tax,
registration, insurance and drivers license requirements as other
vehicles. Counties, municipalities and the state Department of
Transportation may prohibit LSVs on roads under their respective
jurisdictions if such prohibition is necessary in the interest of
public safety. Florida statute also imposes certain restrictions on
the imposition of insurance surcharges on EVs.
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GEORGIA
Governor Roy Barnes (D) signed HB1389 into law on April 25, 2002.
The measure allows LSVs to be operated on roadways with posted speed
limits of 35 mph or less and requires the operator of LSVs on
highways to display an amber strobe light so as to warn approaching
travelers to decrease their speed because of the danger of colliding
with such vehicle. Such amber strobe light shall be mounted in a
manner so as to be visible under normal atmospheric conditions from
a distance of 500 feet from the front and rear of such vehicle. |
HAWAII
Hawaii registers LSV’s for use on public roads with a speed limit of
35 mph or less. The vehicles have a special license plate indicating
they are electric vehicles. Hawaii also offers small financial
incentives. Vehicles with the special license plate are exempt from
payment of parking fees, including those collected through parking
meters, charged by any government authority, other than a branch of
the federal government, when being operated in this State. For a
period of five years, beginning July 1, 1997, the motor vehicle
registration fee and other fees, if any, assessed upon or associated
with the registration of an electric vehicle in this State,
including any fees associated with the issuance of a license plate,
are waived. |
IDAHO
Idaho's Division of Motor Vehicles has adopted a position that low
speed and slow speed vehicles will not be titled or registered. This
policy was developed based on current statutes and with public
safety in mind. The DMV has received very few inquiries for these
types of vehicles and it is their position that until such time that
legislation is passed that clearly defines both the operational and
geographical limitations for LSVs, the DMV cannot title or register
them. |
ILLINOIS
Illinois has passed LSV legislation. |
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INDIANA
This bill
provides that certain low-speed vehicles designed to have a maximumspeed of not
more than 35 miles per hour may be operated on highways as passenger
motor vehicles, with certain
exceptions. It permits the Department of Transportation (INDOT) and
local authorities to regulate the
operation of these low-speed vehicles, with certain exceptions. It
specifies certain equipment that must be standard
on a low-speed vehicle.
Effective Date: July
1, 2003 (LSVLAWS
LINK)
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IOWA
In last year's legislative session, Iowa adopted legislation to
allow low speed vehicles that meet the requirements of 49 C.F.R.
571.500 to be operated on Iowa highways with a posted speed limit of
not more than 25 MPH. |
KANSAS
LSVs are registered as any other passenger vehicle, however there
are restrictions on their operation. Kansas Statute 8-15, 101 makes
it illegal for an LSV to be operated on any street or highway with a
posted speed limit greater than 40 mph. The statute does not prevent
LSVs from crossing streets or highways with a speed limit of over 40
mph.(LSVLAWS
LINK) |
KENTUCKY
Kentucky does not have specific statutory language regarding low
speed electric vehicles. The Department of Vehicle Regulation does
allow low speed electric vehicles to be registered if the
manufacturer demonstrates that the vehicle complies with federal
regulation 49 CFR 571.500. This must include a conforming VIN and a
manufacturer's statement of origin. Vehicles not manufactured for
highway use may not be registered. |
LOUISIANA
Louisiana has passed LSV legislation, LSVs are
restricted to roads with speed limits up to 35 mph, however, local
jurisdictions may limit their usage. |
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MAINE
Representative Marley introduced Bill LD393 on January 30, 2003. The
Bill authorized the use of LSVs in certian municipalities and
islands starting on June 1, 2003. All other jurisdictions started to
allow LSV usage on September 1, 2003.
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MARYLAND
Maryland's vehicle law now permits the registration and/or operation
of LSV's on Maryland's roadways posted 30 mph and below. |
MASSACHUSETTS
Senator Glodis introduced SB 1313 on January 1. The bill defines an
LSV, and limits the use of LSVs to roadways with posted speed limits
of 30 mph or less, except when crossing an intersection with a
posted speed limit of 45 mph. Allows the prohibition of LSV
operation in jurisdictions if deemed an unreasonable risk. Requires
an LSV driver to be 16 years of age and to possess a valid driver’s
license. Exempts low speed electric vehicles from annual emissions
inspections. Requires dealers of LSVs in Massachusetts to provide a
notice to purchasers/renters detailing specifics about the
operation/use of LSVs in the Commonwealth. The legislation would
take effect immediately upon passage into law. |
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MICHIGAN
Prohibits LSVs from
operating on streets with posted speed limits above 35 mph. The
driver of an LSV must possess a valid operator or chauffeur license,
the LSV must follow the same titling and registration laws as
passenger vehicles, and the LSV must have its own 17 character
Vehicle Identification Number. Occupants of the vehicle are required
to wear a crash helmet unless the LSV is equipped with a roof that
meets or exceeds the standards for roof-crush resistance (49 C.F.R.
571.216).
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MINNESOTA
Minnesota does not title or register LSVs, nor are they allowed to
use public streets or highways. Driver and Vehicle Services is
interested in keeping abreast of any action EVAA may be taking in
the pursuit of legislation regarding LSVs. |
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi has passed LSV legislation but is in control by local
governments. Check your local DMV for information |
MISSOURI
The Missouri Department of Revenue will title and register LSVs with
the presentation of the required paperwork. LSVs are titled and
registered in the same manner as other motor vehicles. Taxes are
based on the purchase price and registration fees are charged
according to vehicle horsepower. |
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MONTANA
At
this time, under current Montana statutes, these vehicles would be
on the road legally. The Montana legislature has not chosen to
specify a minimum speed limit on any road in Montana.
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NEBRASKA
Nebraska
has passed LSV legislation and we are in the process of locating
detailed information about the laws enacted. Nebraska considers LSVs
to be golf carts and some communities have local laws and
regulations governing the operation of golf carts.
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NEVADA
Allows LSVs that have been registered and
that comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to operate
on highways with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. (NRS
484.527)
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
Representative Packard introduced HR 76 on January 8, 2003. The bill
defines a neighborhood electric vehicle and prohibits the operation
of an NEV on roadways with posted speed limits greater than 35 mph.
The legislation also requires certain safety features on the
vehicle. The bill, which was referred to the Transportation
Committee, passed the House on January 30 and has been referred to
the Senate. Bill was passed on April 22, 2003 by Governor Craig
Benson (R). |
NEW JERSEY
On January 6, 2006, Governor Cody signed LSV bills into law. Senate
Bill 1834, makes LSV‘s street legal on New Jersey‘s roads with a
posted speed limit of 25 MPH or less. Municipalities and counties
can opt to authorize the use of LSV‘s on streets with speed limits
of up of 35 MPH. S. 1834 was sponsored by Senator John Adler. A
companion bill, sponsored by Assemblyman John Wisniewski, was
introduced in the State Assembly. |
NEW MEXICO
Governor Bill Richardson (D) signed HB 388 on February 24, 2004. The
law allows LSVs on roadways with posted speed limits of 35 mph or
less, and would require drivers to possess a valid drivers license. |
NEW YORK
Chapter 585 of the Laws of 2001 amended the Vehicle and Traffic Law
by adding a new section 121-f in relation to low speed vehicles. It
defines an LSV as a limited use automobile and further defines a
limited use automobile as a limited use vehicle. The Department of
Motor Vehicles adopting an emergency regulation that went into
effect in November 2002 that permits LSVs that are certified in New
York to be registered in NY State for on-road use on roadways with
speed limits of 35 mph or less. |
NORTH CAROLINA
Allows LSVs to be operated on streets and highways where the posted
speed limit is 35 mph or less and the vehicles must comply with
applicable safety standards. LSVs can be titled and licensed as
private passenger vehicles. |
NORTH DAKOTA
Chapter 39-29.1 allows for the licensing and registration of LSVs
for on-road use. |
OHIO
The Ohio Legislature provided for title and registration of LSVs
in the 2002 legislative session. The vehicle must meet NHTSA standards for LSVs. All LSVs must
have either a manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) that
specifies that it was manufactured to Federal LSV standards, or a
Federal Standards Sticker that indicates it meets Federal LSV
standards. |
OKLAHOMA
Effective November 1, 2001, the Oklahoma Legislature enacted
legislation providing for the optional registration of low speed
electric vehicles, within established guidelines. To be eligible,
the vehicle must meet FMVSS500 safety standards, at which point they
may, at the option of the owner, be titled and registered upon
presentation of proper titling documentation. Oklahoma law also
prohibits operation of LSVS on streets with posted speed limits
above 35 mph. |
OREGON
The Oregon Legislature provided for title and registration of LSVs
in the Oregon 2001 legislative session. The legislation limits the
operation of LSVs to streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or
less. The vehicle must meet NHTSA standards for LSVs. All LSVs must
have either a manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) that
specifies that it was manufactured to Federal LSV standards, or a
Federal Standards Sticker that indicates it meets Federal LSV
standards. If the vehicle has neither, the owner must complete a
self-certification. |
PENNSYLVANIA
Representative Greenleaf introduced No. 152 on
March 6, 2007. The bill
defines a neighborhood electric vehicle (LSV)and the
legislation limits the operation of LSVs to streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or
less. The vehicle must meet NHTSA standards for LSVs. All LSVs must
have either a manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) that
specifies that it was manufactured to Federal LSV standards, or a
Federal Standards Sticker that indicates it meets Federal LSV
standards.The bill was active on September 2007. |
RHODE ISLAND
There is no provision in the State of Rhode Island banning the use
of LSVs on public roads, hence such EVs are legal in the state. LSVs
are subject to registration and insurance requirements just like
other private passenger vehicles. Operators must have a valid
license and adhere to all traffic regulations. |
SOUTH CAROLINA
Low speed vehicles that meet the required federal safety standards
to operate on streets and highways may be registered. However, the
vehicle may not be operated on a street or highway that has a
minimum posted speed greater than the maximum rated speed of the
vehicle. |
SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota licenses a four-wheeled electric vehicle as a
noncommercial (automobile) vehicle. Titling also is required. |
TENNESSEE
The Title and Registration Division permits LSVs to be titled when
the MSO indicates that such vehicles comply with certain safety
standards and the top speed has the capability of exceeding 20 mph
but not more than 25 mph. LSVs should be restricted from use on
primary roads. A bill is currently before the Tennessee General
Assembly to specifically include LSVs in the definition of a motor
vehicle and further to establish a specific license plate for the
restricted use of the vehicle. Until such legislation is enacted
into law, the Title and Registration will continue to title and
register LSVs in the manner described. On May 14, Governor Don
Sunquist (R) signed HB2796 into law. (Chapter 747). The bill allows
low speed vehicles to be operated on streets and highways where the
posted speed limit is 35 mph or less. Effective July 1, 2002. |
TEXAS
Requires slow moving vehicles (which are defined as operating at a
maximum speed of 25 mph or less) to display a "Slow-moving Vehicle
Emblem" when operated on public streets and highways. Exempts such
vehicles from the Safety Inspection Act. Requires these vehicles to
be registered and titled. |
UTAH
HB171 bill allows low speed vehicles to be operated
on streets and highways where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or
less; exempts LSVs from emissions inspections and maintenance
program requirements, and requires a slow moving vehicle
identification number on the rear of the vehicle. (UtahLSVlink) |
VERMONT
Vermont passed Bill SB297 - Act No. 91 on May 1, 2002. The bill,
defines a low-speed “neighborhood electric vehicle”, requires both a
flashing caution light or reflector and a reflectorized slow moving
vehicle symbol in addition to meeting federal safety standards
(FMVSS500), and prohibits the operation of LSVs on roadways with
posted speed limits greater than 35 mph. The legislation would allow
a driver to cross roadways with posted speed limits not in excess of
50 mph.
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VIRGINIA
Passed Law HB571 on low-speed vehicles. Authorizes limited
over-the-highway operation of low-speed vehicles, defined as
four-wheeled electrically-powered vehicles, other than golf carts,
whose maximum speed is greater than 20 miles per hour but not
greater than 25 miles per hour, that are manufactured to comply with
safety standards contained in Title 49 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, section 571.500. Low-speed vehicles may be operated on
public highways with speed limits of no more than 35 miles per hour
by licensed drivers or learner's permit holders accompanied by
licensed drivers. The same registration and insurance requirements
applicable to passenger cars apply also to low-speed vehicles.
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WASHINGTON
The Washington Legislature provided for title and registration
of LSVs
in the Oregon 2005 legislative session. The legislation limits the
operation of LSVs to streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or
less. The vehicle must meet NHTSA standards for LSVs. All LSVs must
have either a manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO) that
specifies that it was manufactured to Federal LSV standards, or a
Federal Standards Sticker that indicates it meets Federal LSV
standards.(LSV
LINK) |
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WEST VIRGINIA
(c) The division shall title and register low-speed vehicles if
the manufacturer's certificate of origin clearly identifies the
vehicle as a low-speed vehicle. The division may not title or
register homemade low-speed vehicles or retrofitted golf carts and
such vehicles do not qualify as low-speed vehicles in this state. In
addition to all other motor vehicle laws and regulations, except as
specifically exempted below, low-speed vehicles are subject to the
following restrictions and requirements:
(1) Low-speed vehicles shall only be operated on private roads
and on public roads and streets where the speed limit is not more
than twenty-five miles per hour;
(2) Not withstanding any provisions in this code to the contrary,
low-speed vehicles shall meet the requirements of 49 C.F.R. §571.500
(2003);
(3) In lieu of annual inspection, the owner of a low-speed
vehicle shall, upon initial application for registration and each
renewal thereafter, certify under penalty of false swearing, that
all lights, brakes, tires and seat belts are in good working
condition; and
(4) Any person operating a low-speed vehicle must hold a valid
driver's license, not an instruction permit.
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WISCONSIN
Wisconsin law does allow Kandi vehicles as automobiles on city
roads. The CoCo is a city use vehicle and not allowed on
federal interstates. Wisconsin requires that any vehicle
operating on public streets and highways must be titled, registered. Any person operating a
CoCo vehicle must hold a valid
driver's license, not an instruction permit. |
WYOMING
Wyoming has passed LSV legislation and we are in the process of
locating detailed information about the laws enacted. |
