If you want to sell a golf cart in Florida, the good news is that it's usually simpler than selling a car. There are still a few things to get right: the paperwork, a realistic price, and choosing who to sell to. Whether you're moving, upgrading, or just done with a cart that won't hold a charge, here's the process from start to finish.
Do you need a title to sell a golf cart in Florida?
For a standard golf cart, usually not. Florida law defines a golf cart as a vehicle designed for use on a golf course that can't go faster than 20 mph (section 320.01, Florida Statutes). Golf carts that meet that definition aren't required to be titled or registered (Martin County's golf cart guidance says so plainly), so in most sales there's no title to sign over.
Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are different. An LSV has a top speed above 20 mph but no more than 25 mph, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) says LSVs must be registered, titled and insured. A golf cart that has been converted into an LSV must also be inspected, assigned a VIN and titled. If your cart wears a license plate, you're almost certainly selling an LSV.
For a titled LSV, FLHSMV's guidance for sellers is to complete the seller's transfer section on the title, remove and keep your license plate, and file a Notice of Sale (form HSMV 82050). Rules can change, so confirm the details at flhsmv.gov or with your county tax collector before you sell. This is general information, not legal advice.
What goes on a golf cart bill of sale in Florida
Since most golf carts have no title, the bill of sale is the main record of the transaction for you and the buyer. It doesn't need to be fancy, just complete:
- Full names, addresses and phone numbers for seller and buyer
- Date of sale and the price
- Make, model, model year (if known), color and serial number
- Electric or gas, and battery type (lead-acid or lithium)
- A statement that the cart is sold "as-is," plus any known problems
- Both signatures
Make two copies so each of you keeps one, and pass along a copy of the original purchase receipt if you have it.
How to find your golf cart's serial number
The serial number identifies the cart, and it often tells a buyer the model year. On many Club Car and E-Z-GO carts, it's on a decal or plate in or near the passenger-side glove box. Yamaha and other brands vary by model, and very old carts may have it under the seat near the batteries. If you can't find it, the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website will show where to look.
Take a clear photo of it, since serious buyers will ask.
What affects how much your golf cart is worth
Two carts that look alike from the curb can be worth very different amounts. The main factors:
- Brand and model. Well-known brands with easy parts availability tend to hold value.
- Year. Newer usually brings more, though condition can outweigh age.
- Battery type and age. On an electric cart this is often one of the biggest factors. A newer lithium pack adds real value, while tired lead-acid batteries pull the price down because the buyer will have to replace them soon.
- Condition. Does it run and drive? How are the brakes, steering, tires, seats and body?
- Upgrades. Lift kits, custom wheels, rear seats, lights and enclosures can add value for the right buyer.
- Damage history. Flood, fire or collision damage lowers retail value, though these carts still sell to buyers who deal in them.
Know your battery install date if you can. Many lead-acid batteries carry a date code on the case or near a terminal.
Private sale, dealer or cash buyer: which is best?
Selling privately
Listing on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or a neighborhood board can bring the highest price for a clean, running cart. The tradeoff is time: answering messages, scheduling test drives, handling no-shows and lowball offers, and watching out for payment scams. Take cash in person or confirm that funds have fully cleared before the cart leaves your driveway.
Selling or trading in to a dealer
Dealers buy carts they can resell. It's convenient if you're buying your next cart from them anyway, but they need room for reconditioning and profit, and many won't take a cart that doesn't run.
Selling to a golf cart buyer
A company that buys carts in any condition is usually the fastest route, especially for carts that don't run, have dead batteries or were damaged in a storm. You skip repairs and listings, and the buyer handles pickup. For a running cart in excellent shape, a patient private sale may bring more, so compare offers.
"Sell my golf cart": how to get it ready
- Wash it, including under the seat and around the batteries.
- If it runs and hasn't been flooded, charge it and test the lights, horn and reverse.
- Gather keys, the charger, the manual, receipts and spare parts.
- Shoot photos from every angle, plus close-ups of the upholstery, dashboard, batteries, serial number and any dents or tears.
Be upfront about problems. If the cart was ever flooded, say so. Hidden storm damage is exactly what careful Florida buyers check for, as our guide on how to spot a flood-damaged golf cart explains.
How golf cart pickup works
Moving a golf cart takes a trailer or a truck with ramps and tie-downs. In a private sale, the buyer usually brings the trailer. Dealers and cart buyers often handle pickup and removal themselves. Clear a path from the cart to the street, and if you live in a gated or HOA community, let the gate know someone is coming.
The simplest way to sell a golf cart in Florida is to know what you have, keep the paperwork ready and get more than one offer. If you'd rather skip the listings and test drives, we buy golf carts whether they run or not, single carts and full fleets alike, take care of pickup, and pay you by cashier's check or bank transfer. Find out how to sell your golf cart for cash.
Ready for a number? Request your free quote or give us a call at 954-350-0440. Clear photos of the serial number, the battery label and all four sides mean a better offer, and a quicker one.