9
If you obtain road approval for your go-kart, you can drive your little speedster on public roads. However, this only applies to go-karts that are also approved as road vehicles. If you are caught without approval, it will be expensive.
Go-karts: Road approval is necessary
According to EU Directive 2002/24/EC, go-karts must be approved for road use, but only under certain conditions. If you are not a gifted mechanic, the fun will probably be very expensive. In order to obtain road approval for a standard go-kart, all kinds of costly technical modifications will be necessary in advance.
- You should not take the risk of driving a go-kart on the road without approval. The little speedster is sure to attract attention and you will be stopped immediately.
- If you drive a go-kart without road approval on public roads, the fun will cost you at least €70 according to the catalog of fines, and you will also receive a point on your license in Flensburg.
- However, there is one special case in which you are allowed to drive a go-kart on the road without a license: if you are participating in an official go-kart race and only use the designated roads for this purpose.
- If you have modified your go-kart, you must present the vehicle to the TÜV. Only after the TÜV has confirmed that your go-kart is roadworthy and suitable for traffic will you receive a license.
- With a licensed go-kart, also known as a street kart, you are allowed to drive on highways at speeds of up to 90 km/h. The horsepower of the engine is usually around 150 hp.
- Tip: You can obtain a free guide to applying for type approvals from the Federal Motor Transport Authority.
How to turn a go-kart into a street kart with road approval
In addition to road approval for the go-kart, there are two other important formalities to consider: you must be at least 18 years old and have a car driver’s license. The exact requirements for registration can be found in the aforementioned EU directive, which bears the apt title “Type approval for two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles.” In order for your go-kart to be road legal, it must have, for example:
- a frame reinforced with gusset plates;
- a Euro 4 engine;
- four drum brakes;
- a continuously variable transmission with reverse gear;
- a displacement of around 164 centimeters or more; and
- not to mention small details such as lights, horn, seat belts, etc.
