Low Speed Vehicle

Overview: A low-speed vehicle (LSV), also known as a neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV), is a type of passenger vehicle designed for specific usage within defined areas. LSVs, which may include golf carts among other examples, adhere to the following criteria:

• Four wheels: LSVs are equipped with four wheels for stability and maneuverability.

• Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 3,000 pounds: LSVs are limited in weight to ensure safety and compatibility with designated areas.

• Manufactured to be capable of propelling itself: LSVs are self-propelled vehicles, often powered by electric motors.

• Maximum speed of 25 miles per hour: LSVs are designed for low-speed operation, with a maximum speed capped at 25 miles per hour.

• No modifications for speeds exceeding 25 miles per hour: Any modifications that increase the maximum speed beyond 25 miles per hour invalidate the vehicle's classification as an LSV.

Modifications: If an LSV undergoes modifications to exceed the maximum speed of 25 miles per hour, it no longer meets the requirements of an LSV. Consequently, it cannot be registered as an LSV and may not meet Federal Highway Safety Standards for passenger registration. Therefore, the vehicle becomes ineligible for registration in Alaska.

To be eligible for registration as a passenger vehicle, the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) must explicitly state that the vehicle complies with Federal Highway Safety Standards. If the MCO does not provide this assurance, an inspection is necessary to verify the presence of a compliance sticker indicating adherence to Federal Highway Safety Standards.

General Information: Operators of LSVs are obligated to adhere to all traffic and other laws applicable to operators of passenger vehicles. Additionally, LSVs are restricted from operation on highways with maximum speeds exceeding 35 miles per hour. However, LSVs may traverse such highways at intersections with authorized low-speed vehicle routes.

Application Requirements: To register an LSV, the following application requirements must be fulfilled:

• Vehicle Transaction Application.
• Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) specifying "Low-Speed Vehicle" or "Neighborhood Electric Vehicle."

Mailing Address for Application and Title Documents: Completed application and title documents for LSV registration may be mailed to:

State of Alaska DMV
ATTN: CORRESPONDENCE
4001 Ingra Street, Ste 101
Anchorage AK 99503