This program covers the operation of small utility vehicles in a university setting. Small utility service vehicles, herein referred to as ‘Utility Carts’, include golf carts, turf vehicles and small rough terrain vehicles that are allowed on controlled access areas and or streets of the campus.  Operation of utility carts on sidewalks poses risk to pedestrians and therefore requires special training and responsibility to prevent incidents and potential injury. All individuals operating utility carts must be trained before using the vehicles.

Reading and understanding the Utility Cart Safety Program and responsibilities of cart operation plus additional hnads-on, operator instruction will serve as the required training.   Each department or unit utilizing utility carts is responsible for providing applicable, hands-on operator training. All utility carts operated on NMSU Las Cruces main campus must be registered with Environmental Health Safety & Risk Management and display a unique identification number provided by EHS&RM..

Other vehicles capable of exceeding 20 mph must be primarily operated over roadways, not controlled access areas. Individuals operating these vehicles are be required to attend an approved defensive driving course and obtain an NMSU Drivers Permit.

How to Obtain a Utility Cart Permit

Please read the NMSU Utility Cart Safety Program document listed and watch the Utility Cart Safety Video. Once the video has been reviewed, please complete the Operator’s Acknowledge Form (Attachment C) attached to the program document and submit to EHS&RM at ehs@nmsu.edu , along with a copy of the user's state issued driver's license. EHS&RM will perform a driver’s license history check (requires payment of a $25.00 license check fee to EHS&RM) and upon approval will issue the Utility Cart Permit.