How much does it cost to rent a golf cart? Generally, the golf cart rental prices range from \$50 to \$150 per day for a basic model, but this can change based on location, rental length, and cart size.
Renting a golf cart can be fun and helpful. You might need one for a vacation, a big event, or just to get around a large property. But what really sets the final bill? Prices change a lot depending on where you are and how long you keep the cart. Let’s break down the real costs so you can plan your budget right.
Factors That Shape Your Rental Bill
Many things make up the final golf cart hire cost. Knowing these points helps you shop smart. Think of it like buying groceries; the type of product and how much you buy changes the total.
Location, Location, Location
Where you rent matters a lot. Resorts, popular tourist spots, and busy coastal towns often charge more. Why? Because demand is high, and they know people need carts to explore.
- High-Demand Areas: Expect higher daily golf cart rental rates near beaches or theme parks.
- Rural or Private Rentals: Renting from a local shop outside a major tourist zone might save you money.
Rental Duration: Short vs. Long Term
The length of your rental heavily impacts the overall price structure. Daily rates are high, but longer rentals often bring the average cost down.
Daily Golf Cart Rental Rates
If you only need a cart for a day trip or one afternoon, you pay the highest per-day price. These rates cover preparation, cleaning, and short-term turnover.
Weekly Golf Cart Rental Cost
Renting for a week usually unlocks better deals. Companies offer discounts for long-term use because it means less administrative work for them. If you need a cart for seven days or more, always ask for the weekly special.
Monthly Rental Options
For extended stays, monthly rentals are the best value. These rates often drop significantly compared to the daily average.
Cart Type and Size
Not all golf carts are the same. A simple, two-passenger cart costs less than a large, luxury model.
Two-Seater Golf Cart Rental Cost
The two-seater golf cart rental cost is usually the lowest entry point. These are great for couples or small families running quick errands.
Four-Seater Golf Cart Rental Price
If you have a group or need more space for beach gear, the four-seater golf cart rental price will be higher. These models use more battery power and take up more room, leading to higher operational costs for the rental company.
Specialty Carts
Do you need a lifted cart for rough terrain? Or perhaps a specialized utility cart? These specialized vehicles carry a premium price tag.
Power Source: Electric vs. Gas
Most rentals today use electric power. However, gas-powered carts still exist in some areas.
Electric Golf Cart Rental Expense
The electric golf cart rental expense is generally straightforward. Battery charging time and range are key factors, but you don’t pay for fuel. Rental companies factor in battery maintenance when setting these prices.
Gas carts might require you to refill the tank, which can add an unpredictable cost to your total.
Deciphering Golf Cart Rental Fees
The sticker price you see advertised is rarely the final cost. You must account for various golf cart rental fees. This is where hidden costs often appear.
Insurance and Liability Waivers
Safety first! Rental companies almost always require some form of insurance or liability waiver.
- Waiver Cost: This is often a small daily fee (\$5 to \$15). It limits your financial responsibility if the cart is damaged or stolen.
- Required Insurance: Some locations or longer rentals might demand you show proof of your own liability insurance, or you must purchase a more comprehensive daily policy.
Delivery and Pick-Up Charges
If you are staying at a resort or a home far from the rental office, you will pay for delivery.
- Local Delivery: Within a small radius (e.g., one mile), this might be free.
- Extended Delivery: Moving the cart several miles off-site can add \$25 to \$75 per trip. Some companies charge for both drop-off and pick-up.
Cleaning and Maintenance Fees
While less common for short rentals, longer hires or rentals used in sandy or muddy conditions might incur a cleaning fee if returned excessively dirty.
Taxes and Surcharges
Local tourism taxes and state sales taxes will always be added to your final bill. These are non-negotiable and vary by municipality.
Comprehending All-Inclusive Golf Cart Rental Pricing
To avoid sticker shock, look for all-inclusive golf cart rental pricing. This structure bundles many of the extra fees into one upfront cost.
| Included Item | Typical Daily Rate Impact |
|---|---|
| Base Rental Rate | 100% of the core price |
| Standard Insurance Waiver | Adds \$5 – \$15 |
| Local Delivery (Within 2 miles) | Often waives the \$20 – \$40 fee |
| Sales Tax | Usually included in the total breakdown |
An all-inclusive golf cart rental pricing model is easier to budget for. Before booking, ask the provider specifically what is covered. Does “all-inclusive” cover mileage limits or use outside of designated zones? Be sure to clarify these boundaries.
A Golf Cart Rental Comparison: What to Expect
To give you a clearer picture, here is a general golf cart rental comparison based on typical market rates in moderate-demand areas (like a quiet beach town in the off-season).
| Rental Term | Two-Seater Electric Cart (Estimate) | Four-Seater Gas Cart (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Per Day Rate | \$60 – \$85 | \$90 – \$130 |
| 3-Day Rate (Average Daily) | \$50 – \$70 | \$80 – \$110 |
| Weekly Cost | \$280 – \$400 | \$450 – \$650 |
| Monthly Cost (Estimate) | \$800 – \$1,200 | \$1,300 – \$2,000+ |
Note: These figures are estimates. Peak season in a major city like Miami or Hilton Head could see prices 30-50% higher.
Getting the Best Deal: Tips for Lowering Your Cost
You do not have to pay the highest price. Strategic booking can significantly lower your electric golf cart rental expense.
1. Book Off-Peak
Timing is everything in the rental market. Avoid holidays, spring break, and summer weekends if possible. If you must travel during peak season, book your cart weeks or even months in advance. Early bookings often secure a better rate lock.
2. Negotiate for Longer Rentals
If you need a cart for five days, ask if they can match the weekly rate for the five days instead of charging five individual daily rates. Always inquire about discounts when the rental term crosses a billing threshold (daily to weekly, weekly to monthly).
3. Compare Local Providers
Do not settle for the first vendor you find. Use online search tools to gather at least three quotes. Look beyond the major resort vendors and check smaller, local suppliers. A quick golf cart rental comparison can save you substantial money.
4. Inspect the Cart Before Accepting
Before signing off, check the cart thoroughly.
- Test the lights and horn.
- Check the battery charge level (for electric carts).
- Note any existing scratches or dents on the pre-rental inspection sheet. This protects you from being charged for old damage.
5. Check Your Accommodation Perks
Sometimes, hotels, condo associations, or rental home owners have exclusive deals with a local golf cart vendor. Always ask your host if they offer any partnership discounts before booking independently.
Grasping Insurance and Liability Requirements
Renting machinery, even a golf cart, carries risk. Rental providers are very strict about liability. You need to know exactly what you are agreeing to.
What is Covered by the Standard Waiver?
The basic waiver typically covers the rental company against lawsuits if you are injured due to a mechanical failure (assuming you haven’t misused the cart). It often limits your financial responsibility for accidental damage to the cart itself, usually capping it at a specific deductible amount (e.g., \$500).
Personal Liability
The biggest area of concern is often liability if you hit someone or damage another person’s property. Standard rental waivers rarely cover this fully.
- Renter’s Insurance: If you have personal auto insurance, call your agent. Sometimes, your existing policy may extend liability coverage to a rented, low-speed vehicle like a golf cart, especially in residential areas where they are street-legal.
- Purchasing Extra Coverage: If your personal policy excludes carts, you may need to pay for supplemental liability coverage offered by the rental company. This can add a significant amount to the golf cart rental fees.
Operational Costs: Fuel, Mileage, and Battery Life
The cost of keeping the cart running is usually factored into the base rate, but there are exceptions.
Fueling Gas Carts
If you rent a gas cart, the cost is on you. A full tank might last a few days, depending on how much you drive. Estimate about \$15-\$25 to fill a standard gas cart tank for a week of moderate use.
Electric Cart Range
Electric carts are convenient because you charge them overnight using a standard outlet. The actual cost of electricity to charge the cart is negligible—pennies per charge. The real operational concern is range.
- Range Anxiety: A standard cart might only go 20–30 miles on a full charge. If you plan to explore widely, ensure the rental company guarantees a cart with sufficient range or a backup battery swap service.
Mileage Caps
Some vendors, especially for longer rentals, place limits on how far you can drive the cart per day (e.g., 50 miles). Exceeding this limit can incur high per-mile fees, sometimes \$1 to \$2 per extra mile. Always confirm if there are mileage restrictions to avoid unexpected charges on your weekly golf cart rental cost.
Specialty Rental Scenarios
Different situations require different cart solutions, affecting the golf cart rental prices.
Event Rentals
Renting carts for a wedding, corporate retreat, or festival is specialized.
- Volume Discount: You usually get a bulk discount if you rent ten or more carts.
- Staging Fees: Companies might charge a “staging fee” to coordinate delivery and placement across a large venue.
- Short-Term Use: Event rentals are often charged at a higher daily rate because the company has to transport the carts quickly and then retrieve them all at once.
Real Estate or Construction Sites
Utility carts designed to haul tools and materials are priced higher than passenger carts. Their golf cart hire cost reflects their robust build and utility features. Always confirm the load capacity when renting for work purposes.
Fathoming Street Legality and Permits
A huge variable affecting how you use (and thus how much you pay for) a cart is whether it is street legal in your area.
Street-legal carts (Low-Speed Vehicles or LSVs) usually require specific equipment: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, seat belts, and sometimes a specific license plate.
- LSV Rental Premium: Carts equipped to be street legal often cost 15% to 30% more than basic private-property carts. This higher four-seater golf cart rental price reflects the extra safety equipment installed.
- Permit Costs: Some cities require you to obtain a temporary local permit to drive the cart on public roads. The rental company may handle this for a fee, or you might have to do it yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Cart Rentals
Can I rent a golf cart without a driver’s license?
Generally, no. Most reputable rental companies require the primary renter to possess a valid driver’s license, even if the cart is only used on private property. This ensures the driver meets a minimum age and competency standard.
Are golf carts street legal everywhere?
No. Street legality is decided at the city or county level. In many beach towns, carts can drive on roads marked 35 mph or less. Always check the local ordinances for where you plan to drive before renting, especially if you opt for a non-LSV model.
What is the typical deposit required for a rental?
Deposits vary widely. For a standard weekend rental, expect a hold of \$100 to \$500 on your credit card. This deposit is released after the cart is returned undamaged.
Do I have to charge an electric cart overnight?
Yes, if you want to use it the next day. If you rent an electric cart for multiple days, the company expects you to plug it in whenever it is parked, usually overnight, to ensure you maximize its range.
What is the difference between a standard cart and an LSV?
A standard golf cart is restricted to specific low-speed areas or private property. A Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) is registered, insured, equipped with safety gear (like windshields and turn signals), and permitted by law to drive on public roads up to a certain speed limit (usually 25 mph). The LSV commands a higher golf cart rental cost.
How does renting from a resort compare to a local vendor?
Resort rentals offer convenience—they deliver directly to your door—but often charge a premium. Local vendors usually offer lower base rates but may charge separately for delivery if you are not within their immediate service area. Always perform a golf cart rental comparison.