Golf carts make the game accessible and can speed up play, but they can also damage the course, slow things down and cause accidents if used carelessly. Knowing cart etiquette keeps you safe, protects the turf and keeps your group moving.
Common cart rules
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| 90-degree rule | Drive on the path until level with your ball, then turn at right angles across the fairway |
| Cart path only | Stay on paths at all times; walk to your ball |
| Paths near greens and tees | Return to the path near greens and tees |
| Roped areas and signs | Follow ropes and signs to protect wet or worn turf |
Protect the course
- Stay off greens, fringes and tees.
- Avoid wet areas and soft ground.
- Don't drive close to bunkers.
- Spread wear by not following the same tracks.
Read golf course maintenance explained.
Pace of play
- Drop your partner at their ball, then drive to yours.
- Take several clubs when walking from the path.
- Park beside the green nearest the next tee.
- Record scores at the next tee, not in the cart by the green.
Read pace of play.
Safety
- Drive slowly, especially downhill and around corners.
- Keep arms and legs inside.
- Set the brake when stopped.
- Don't drive after drinking alcohol. Read caffeine, alcohol and golf.
- Never let children drive.
Read golf course safety.
Courtesy
- Stop the cart and stay quiet when someone is playing.
- Don't drive ahead of a player about to hit.
- Keep music off or very low, if allowed at all.
Cart rules explained
| Sign or rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| "Paths only" | Keep the cart on paths everywhere |
| "90-degree rule" | Stay on the path until level with your ball, turn 90 degrees to it, then return the same way |
| "Cart path only near greens and tees" | Return to the path before reaching these areas |
| "No carts" or roped areas | Keep out of these areas |
| Red and white or coloured markers | Cart boundary or path guidance |
Sharing a cart
- Drop off your partner at their ball first, then drive to yours.
- Take two or three clubs when you're on paths-only days, so you don't need to walk back.
- Keep the cart tidy, with bags strapped securely.
- Agree who drives and switch if both want to.
- Communicate: say when you're moving off so your partner isn't left behind.
Pace of play with carts
Carts don't always make golf faster. Golfers sometimes wait for each other rather than walking to their own ball. Tips:
- Play ready golf. Read pace of play.
- Walk to your ball while your partner plays theirs.
- Park behind or beside the green, on the way to the next tee.
- Record scores at the next tee, not beside the green.
Cart safety in detail
- Keep feet and arms inside the cart while it's moving.
- Slow down on slopes, turns and wet grass.
- Use the handbrake when parking.
- Don't overload the cart.
- Children should only drive where rules allow, with an adult.
- Never drink and drive a cart. Read caffeine, alcohol and golf.
Cart etiquette and disabilities
Golfers with medical needs may be allowed to drive closer to greens or ignore certain restrictions. Respect these arrangements. Read adaptive golf.
Cart accessories
Accessories such as rain covers, holders and coolers can make cart golf more pleasant. Read golf cart accessories and walking vs riding a golf cart.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 90-degree rule?
Drive on the path until level with your ball, then turn across the fairway at a right angle.
What does cart path only mean?
Carts must stay on paths; walk to your ball.
Where should I park a cart near the green?
On the side nearest the next tee, on the path.
Can I drive a cart on the fringe?
No. Keep carts off fringes, greens and tees.
What is the 90-degree rule?
Drive along the path until level with your ball, turn at right angles to it, then return to the path the same way.
Do I need a driving licence to drive a golf cart?
It depends on the course and country. Many courses require drivers to be adults or have a licence.
The bottom line
Follow the course's cart rules, protect the turf, drive safely and share carts efficiently. For more, read walking vs riding a golf cart.