Tiger Woods can still operate a golf cart without a license if he is at least 18, including on a golf course or public property, according to Thomas Bakkedahl. The state attorney discussed that distinction after Judge Darren Steele warned Woods that his driver’s license suspension carries no exceptions.
Fortune reported that Woods pleaded no contest on Wednesday to reckless driving and to refusing post-crash testing. The court imposed a $1,500 fine for the testing offense, while the reckless-driving plea followed an earlier accusation of driving under the influence. A no-contest plea does not admit guilt, but it is handled as a conviction in the criminal justice system. Woods, 50, originally pleaded not guilty to the DUI allegation.
The case stems from a rollover crash near Woods’ home on Jupiter Island after his SUV struck a truck on a residential road. The arrest report described two pain pills in Woods’s pocket and indications that he was impaired. The report also said a Breathalyzer result was negative and that Woods declined a urine test.
Prosecutors said two toxicologists found insufficient evidence of impairment and concluded that Woods had developed a pharmacological tolerance after years of taking pain medication. Bakkedahl said pharmacy records showed Woods had a lawful prescription. The arrest report identified the pills as hydrocodone, an opioid prescribed for pain that can be addictive, and said Woods told a deputy he used Vicodin.
Andrew Buda, a defense lawyer not involved in the case, said a urine result would have limited value because prescription drugs can remain in the body for extended periods. Buda characterized the reduced plea as an ordinary result under the circumstances and said comparable defendants could expect a similar outcome when they disclose relevant information and pursue treatment.
Mark Steinberg of Excel Sports said Woods remained accountable, had surrendered his license and was continuing treatment while focusing on his health.
Woods left the United States for inpatient treatment, according to court records. He later appeared publicly on June 23 to present the PGA Tour’s proposed schedule changes for 2028 and remained chair of its Future Competition Committee.
President Donald Trump said in Washington that the case’s resolution was fair and that Woods would have someone else drive him. Woods has not returned to tournament play since the latest crash.