To drive a golf cart well, go slowly and safely, follow the course’s cart rules for the day, and keep carts away from greens, tees, bunkers and wet areas. Check whether the course is cart path only or using the 90-degree rule, keep your hands, arms and legs inside the cart while it moves, drive straight up and down slopes rather than across them, and set the parking brake whenever you stop. Good cart etiquette, such as parking near the exit side of the green, stopping quietly while others hit and dropping your partner at their ball, protects the course and keeps play moving.
Why cart rules matter
Golf carts are convenient, but they can damage turf, especially on wet or worn areas, and they can cause injuries if driven carelessly. Courses set rules to protect grass, greens and tees and to keep players safe. Cart rules can change daily based on weather and course conditions, so always check the signs at the first tee or ask in the pro shop before starting.
Common cart rules
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| Cart path only | Stay on paths at all times, usually after rain or when turf is stressed |
| 90-degree rule | Drive along the path, then turn straight across the fairway to your ball and return the same way |
| Keep off greens and tees | Stay well back, often behind posted signs, ropes or stakes |
| Avoid wet or worn areas | Prevents ruts and turf damage |
| Directional signs | Follow arrows and barriers that route carts around sensitive areas |
| Medical or accessibility flags | Some courses allow closer access for golfers with approved needs |
Cart path only
When the course is cart path only, carts must stay on the paths for the entire round. This is common after heavy rain, during frost or when grass is being protected. Golfers should take several clubs with them when walking to their ball, since they may be some distance from the cart, which saves time and avoids walking back and forth.
The 90-degree rule
Under the 90-degree rule, drive on the cart path until you are level with your ball, then turn at a right angle and drive straight across the fairway to it. After hitting, drive straight back to the path. This limits the amount of fairway traffic and spreads wear across the course rather than concentrating it along the same routes.
Safety tips
- Keep your body inside. Keep hands, arms and legs inside the cart while it is moving.
- Drive slowly. Reduce speed on slopes, turns, wet grass and paths near other golfers.
- Go straight up and down hills. Driving across steep slopes increases the risk of tipping.
- Set the brake. Engage the parking brake whenever you stop, especially on slopes.
- Watch for other golfers. Look out for players walking, hitting and searching for balls.
- Follow age and licensing rules. Many courses require drivers to meet a minimum age or hold a driver’s license.
- Avoid alcohol before driving. Impaired driving is dangerous on a golf course just as it is on the road.
How to operate a golf cart
Most golf carts are simple to drive. Electric carts usually have a key or switch to turn them on and a forward and reverse selector, often a lever or switch near the seat. Gas carts may start when you press the accelerator. To move, release the parking brake by pressing the brake pedal, select forward, then press the accelerator gently. Press the brake pedal to slow or stop, and engage the parking brake before getting out. Many carts beep when in reverse to warn people nearby. Some courses use GPS-equipped carts that show hole layouts and distances and may automatically slow or stop carts that approach restricted areas such as greens.
Weather and course conditions
Cart rules often depend on conditions. After heavy rain, saturated fairways can be damaged easily, so courses may restrict carts to paths or close them entirely. In frost, driving on frozen grass can kill the turf, and courses often delay starts or require carts to stay on paths until the frost melts. During hot, dry spells, turf may also be stressed, and courses may limit fairway access to protect it. Following these rules helps keep the course in good condition for everyone.
Carts for golfers with disabilities
Some courses provide special carts or flags that allow golfers with disabilities or medical conditions closer access to greens and tees. Single-rider adaptive carts are also available at some facilities. Golfers who need these accommodations should ask the course in advance about its policies.
Etiquette
- Park smartly. Leave the cart on the side of the green nearest the next tee so you can leave quickly.
- Stay quiet. Stop the cart and remain still while others are hitting.
- Share efficiently. Drop your partner at their ball with clubs, then drive to yours.
- Keep the pace. Move promptly to your ball and have your next club ready.
- Respect the course. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns that tear turf.
Step by step: before and during your round
- Check the daily cart rule at the first tee or pro shop.
- Inspect the cart, including brakes, battery or fuel and the scorecard holder.
- Load your bags securely and fasten the straps.
- Plan your route using paths, signs and the 90-degree rule where allowed.
- Park near the exit of each green and set the brake.
- Return the cart to the designated area and remove trash and belongings.
Carts and the pace of play
Carts can speed up play, but only if golfers use them well. Two players sharing a cart can split up, with one dropped at their ball while the other drives on. Taking multiple clubs to your ball, especially on cart path only days, avoids extra trips. Moving to the next tee quickly and recording scores there rather than beside the green helps groups behind you.
Walking versus riding
Walking a round offers exercise and a closer connection to the course, and many golfers find it improves their feel for distances and the flow of the game. Riding saves energy on hot days, hilly courses or for golfers with mobility concerns. Push carts are a good middle ground, allowing players to walk without carrying a heavy bag. Some courses require carts at certain times, while others encourage walking.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring daily cart rules or signs.
- Driving too close to greens, tees or bunkers.
- Driving across steep slopes.
- Forgetting to set the parking brake.
- Leaving hands or feet outside the cart while moving.
- Parking in front of the green, delaying groups behind.
Rulebook note: cart rules are set by each course rather than the Rules of Golf. Check local rules and posted signs before your round.
Health note: golf carts can tip or cause injuries if driven unsafely. Drive slowly, follow safety rules and never drive after drinking alcohol.
Frequently asked questions
What does cart path only mean?
Carts must stay on the paved paths for the entire round, usually to protect wet or stressed turf.
What is the 90-degree rule in golf?
Drive along the path until level with your ball, then turn straight across the fairway and return the same way.
Where should you park a golf cart near the green?
On the side nearest the next tee, well away from the green surface.
