Bump seats—additional seating mounted on golf cart frames—are conditionally legal in Michigan under Act 300 of 1949 if the modified vehicle remains a low-speed vehicle (LSV) with a top speed ≤25 mph and ≤4 occupants. Non-compliant configurations (exceeding speed or capacity) require full automotive registration. Always verify installations with local law enforcement to avoid penalties.
What Are Michigan’s Golf Cart Driver’s License Requirements?
What defines a legal bump seat in Michigan?
Legal bump seats must adhere to LSV classification rules: factory-installed seating for ≤4, speed governors, and ≤2,700 lbs gross weight. Aftermarket seats require welded frames (not clamp-on) and OEM approval. Pro Tip: Never exceed axle load limits—overloading risks suspension failure and voids warranties.
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Michigan law treats modified golf carts as LSVs if they meet safety standards like headlights, seat belts, and mirrors. For example, a Club Car with two rear-facing bump seats needs reinforced chassis welds and speed restriction below 25 mph. Why does this matter? Exceeding LSV specs reclassifies the cart as an automobile, triggering insurance and registration mandates. Practically speaking, welding quality determines compliance—spot welds often fail inspections versus continuous bead welding.
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Do bump seats require additional safety features?
Yes, Michigan mandates seat belts, mirrors, and rear reflectors for LSVs with bump seats. Child occupants require DOT-approved booster seats secured via LATCH anchors.
Beyond seating, bump seat installations activate stricter LSV requirements. Take lighting: carts must have brake lights visible from 500 feet and amber turn signals. Pro Tip: Use SAE J585-compliant LED lights—cheap aftermarket bulbs often lack glare guards, blinding other drivers. Imagine a hunting property golf cart retrofitted with bench seating—without side mirrors, reversing becomes hazardous near trails. Tables below compare safety add-ons:
| Required | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Seat belts | Roll cage |
| Rearview mirror | Windshield wipers |
How does Michigan classify vehicles with bump seats?
Michigan categorizes them as LSVs or off-road vehicles based on usage. Street-legal LSVs need 17-digit VINs, while farm/trail carts require ORV decals.
The classification hinges on tire type, speed, and seating. For instance, a Yamaha Drive2 with bump seats and DOT-rated tires qualifies as an LSV, but the same cart with knobby tires becomes an ORV. But what happens if you drive an ORV on roads? Law enforcement imposes $200+ fines under MCL 324.81122.
Can bump seats affect insurance coverage?
Yes, unapproved modifications void most golf cart insurance policies. Providers like Foremost require engineer-certified seat installations for liability coverage.
Insurance companies assess risk based on seating capacity and usage. A 6-seat modified cart used for shuttle services faces higher premiums than a 4-seat personal vehicle. Pro Tip: Submit modification photos to your insurer pre-installation—retrofactive approvals are rarely granted. Consider a resort using bumped carts for guest transport; without commercial endorsements, accident liabilities fall entirely on the owner.
Are there age restrictions for bump seat passengers?
Michigan enforces child seat laws for bump seats: kids under 8 or under 4’9” need boosters. Adults can ride unrestricted if seat belts exist.
The law focuses on restraint systems, not age alone. For example, a 10-year-old under 4’9” in a Polaris LSV must use a backless booster until they meet height requirements. Why? Standard seat belts don’t properly fit smaller riders, increasing ejection risks during collisions.
| Passenger Size | Requirement |
|---|---|
| <4’9” | Booster seat |
| >4’9” | Seat belt only |
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FAQs
Only if classified as an LSV—drivers need a valid license. Off-road carts on private land don’t require one.
Can I add bump seats to an ATV in Michigan?
No—ATVs are designed for single riders. Adding seats violates ORV laws (MCL 324.81122) and risks $500 fines.
What is the Legal Age to Drive a Golf Cart in Michigan?
