If you’re in the market for a golf cart, you’ve got plenty of options—but not all carts are built the same. Whether you’re using it on the golf course, around the farm, at the lake, or in your neighborhood, picking the right one depends on how you’ll use it, Tennessee laws, and key features you don’t want to overlook.

At Harris Trading Company, we carry top-of-the-line golf carts and UTVs, and we know that a golf cart is more than just a way to get around—it’s an investment. So, let’s break down exactly what to look for, must-have features, and the key differences between a golf cart and a UTV.

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Golf Cart vs. UTV: What’s the Difference?

First things first—many people confuse golf carts with UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles), but they’re designed for very different uses.

Feature	Golf Cart	UTV (Utility Task Vehicle)
Purpose	Leisure, short-distance travel, smooth surfaces	Work, off-road use, hauling heavy loads
Speed	12-25 MPH	40-70+ MPH
Terrain	Pavement, gravel, light off-road	Mud, steep hills, rough trails
Seating	2-6 passengers	2-4 passengers, often with roll cages
Power Options	Electric or gas	Gas or diesel, some electric models
Street Legal?	Yes, with modifications	Requires registration and insurance for road use
Best For	Neighborhoods, golf courses, light utility work	Farms, hunting, heavy-duty work

If you need something for off-road work, hauling, or serious terrain, a UTV is the way to go. But if you want easy, smooth transportation for short trips and casual use, a golf cart is the perfect solution.

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Must-Haves When Buying a Golf Cart in Tennessee

Buying a golf cart isn’t just about picking a color and a brand—you need to think about terrain, performance, features, and legal requirements.

1. Gas vs. Electric: Which One is Right for You?

• Gas Golf Carts
  ✅ More power, better for hilly terrain
  ✅ Longer range, no need to recharge
  ❌ Louder and requires more maintenance
• Electric Golf Carts
  ✅ Quieter, more environmentally friendly
  ✅ Lower maintenance with fewer moving parts
  ❌ Battery replacement costs over time

If you’re riding on a farm or need long-distance travel, gas is often better. If you want an easy, quiet, and low-maintenance option for your property or neighborhood, electric is ideal.

2. Seating Capacity

Golf carts come in 2-seater, 4-seater, and 6-seater models. If you’ll only need it for yourself and a passenger, a standard 2-seater is fine. But if you plan on hauling friends, family, or gear, consider upgrading to a 4-seater or 6-seater model.

3. Lifted or Standard?

• Standard Golf Carts – Lower to the ground, best for pavement and light gravel.
• Lifted Golf Carts – Higher ground clearance, better for farms, trails, and rougher terrain.

If your property has gravel roads, uneven ground, or you just want a tougher look, go with a lifted cart.

4. Making Your Golf Cart Street-Legal in Tennessee

Want to drive your golf cart on the road? In Tennessee, it must meet “Low-Speed Vehicle” (LSV) requirements, including:
✅ Headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and brake lights
✅ Seat belts
✅ Rearview mirror
✅ Windshield
✅ A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
✅ A top speed of 25 MPH

At Harris Trading Company, we can make any of our golf carts street-legal for an additional $400. This fee covers a VIN number and modifications to ensure your cart reaches 25 MPH, making it compliant with Tennessee LSV laws. Be sure to check local regulations in your county or city before hitting the road.

5. Tire Type Matters

• Turf Tires – Ideal for golf courses and smooth surfaces
• All-Terrain Tires – Great for farms, gravel, and mixed use
• Off-Road Tires – Needed for serious trails and rough terrain

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Optional Features to Consider

While basic golf carts get the job done, adding the right features can make them even better for your needs.

✔ Canopy or Enclosure – Protects you from sun and rain.
✔ Cargo Bed or Rear Seat – Useful for carrying gear, tools, or extra passengers.
✔ Bluetooth Speakers – Because mowing or riding without music just isn’t the same.
✔ Upgraded Suspension – Smoother ride, especially on rough ground.
✔ LED Lights & Turn Signals – A must-have if you plan to go street-legal.

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Final Thoughts: Which Golf Cart is Right for You?

🔹 If you need a simple, reliable cart for short trips on smooth terrain: Get a standard electric or gas golf cart.
🔹 If you plan to take it off-road or need extra power: Go with a lifted golf cart with all-terrain tires.
🔹 If you need to haul gear or multiple passengers: Get a 4-seater or 6-seater model with a cargo bed.
🔹 If you want to drive on the road: We can make any of our carts street-legal for just $400.

At Harris Trading Company, we carry a selection of high-quality golf carts and can help you pick the right one for your needs.

👉 Ready to Find Your Perfect Golf Cart? Come visit us in Lebanon, TN!