DOT Approved Golf Cart Windshields (Windscreens)

What is a DOT Approved Windshield?

In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations related to vehicle safety, including windshield standards for automobiles. Golf carts, which are not typically classified as motor vehicles for on-road use, generally do not fall under the same DOT regulations as cars and trucks. However, there are exceptions for golf carts that are classified as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs).

LSVs are permitted to operate on certain public roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less in some states within the USA, provided they meet specific safety standards, including DOT-approved windshields. When a golf cart is classified as an LSV and used on approved roads, it must adhere to the DOT regulations to ensure the safety of passengers and proper visibility for the driver.

For golf cart windshields, materials like acrylic or polycarbonate are commonly used instead of traditional automotive glass. However, when a golf cart is classified as an LSV, it is required to have a DOT-approved windshield made from a material that meets the safety standards set by the DOT.

To ensure your safety from flying debris from passing vehicles, most communities mandate the use of a durable and shatter-resistant windshield. Our AS4/AS5 clear windshields have been manufactured specifically to meet the U.S. Department of Transportation standards for Low Speed Vehicles. With a thickness of 0.177 inches and a polycarbonate hard coat, they are designed to prevent scratches and shattering. Our windshields are available in both full one-piece and two-piece configurations to suit your specific needs.

It is essential to maintain and replace golf cart windshields as needed to ensure the safety of passengers and proper visibility for the driver. When selecting a windshield for an LSV golf cart, make sure it meets DOT requirements and choose a high-quality, durable material that meets or exceeds the necessary safety standards.  Pro Golf Cart Windshields supplies DOT compliant windshields that meet all the required standards to give you piece of mind.

Additionally, consult the golf cart manufacturer's recommendations for windshield specifications and replacement procedures. Remember to comply with local and state regulations regarding LSV usage on public roads to ensure safe and legal operation.

If you require a DOT compliant windshield please make shore the product you select has the "AS4 DOT" or 'AS5 DOT" noted in the Product Heading and Description or filter by DOT compliant products when shopping with Pro Golf Cart Windshields.

What is the difference between AS4 and AS5 DOT compliant Windshields?

AS4 and AS5 are two different standards for DOT compliant golf cart windshields.

Here are the main differences between the two:

  1. Impact Resistance: AS4 windshields are required to withstand a force of 15 foot-pounds, while AS5 windshields must withstand a force of 30 foot-pounds. This means that AS5 windshields are more impact-resistant than AS4 windshields.

  2. Light Transmission: AS4 windshields must have a light transmission of at least 70%, while AS5 windshields must have a light transmission of at least 65%. This means that AS4 windshields allow slightly more light to pass through than AS5 windshields.

  3. Surface Hardness: AS4 windshields have a surface hardness rating of H-2, while AS5 windshields have a rating of H-3. This means that AS5 windshields are slightly harder and more scratch-resistant than AS4 windshields.

  4. Testing Procedures: The testing procedures for AS4 and AS5 windshields are slightly different. AS4 windshields are tested using a 1-inch steel ball dropped from a height of 50 inches, while AS5 windshields are tested using a 2.25-inch steel ball dropped from a height of 50 inches.

In summary, AS5 windshields are generally considered to be more durable and impact-resistant than AS4 windshields, but they may allow slightly less light to pass through and are more expensive. It is important to choose a windshield that meets the appropriate DOT standards for your golf cart to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.