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Tourism & Visitors

Visiting The Bahamas and planning to drive? This page explains the essentials—what licence you can use, insurance expectations (including rentals), how to handle roundabouts, and the documents you must carry.

Who Can Drive (Visitors)

  • Foreign/International licence: Visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English.
  • Length of stay: Up to three months for bona fide visitors. [1] Longer stays or residency changes require a Bahamian licence.
  • Minimum age: Follow rental company requirements (commonly 25+).

Insurance & Rentals

  • Insurance is mandatory. All vehicles on Bahamian roads must be insured.
  • Rental counter: Confirm what coverage is included (third-party liability is standard). Consider additional coverage for peace of mind.
  • New in 2025: Police may impound uninsured or unlicensed vehicles until valid documents and a release fee are provided. [2]

Driving Basics

  • Drive on the left-hand side.
  • Roundabouts: Give way to traffic already inside; signal left when exiting.
  • Obey speed limits and watch for school zones and pedestrians.
  • Seat belts for all; child seats for children under 5 in the back seat. [3]
  • No handheld phone use while driving.

What to Carry

  • Driver’s licence (and IDP if applicable)
  • Passport (recommended for ID)
  • Rental agreement
  • Insurance documents

If There’s an Accident

  1. Stop and make the scene safe.
  2. Call 919 for police or medical help.
  3. Exchange names, contacts, plate numbers, and insurance details.
  4. Take photos of the scene.
  5. Notify your rental company immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can tourists drive in the Bahamas?
Yes. Bona fide visitors may drive on a valid foreign driver’s licence or an International Driving Permit for up to three months after arrival.
Is it difficult to drive in the Bahamas?
Most visitors find it manageable, but there are differences. Driving is on the left-hand side. Roads can be narrow and busy near resorts. Roundabouts are common — always give way to traffic already inside. Seat belts are mandatory, and child seats are required for young children.
Can I use my driver's license to go to the Bahamas?
Yes. A valid U.S., Canadian, U.K., or other foreign licence is accepted for up to three months if you are a bona fide visitor. If your licence is not in English, carry an International Driving Permit along with your home licence.
Can a US citizen rent a car in the Bahamas?
Yes. U.S. citizens and other visitors may rent a car (self-drive vehicle) with a valid foreign licence. Rental agencies usually require drivers to be at least 25 years old, hold a major credit card, and show proof of insurance. Insurance is mandatory, and from 1 January 2025 police may impound uninsured or unlicensed vehicles until valid documents and a release fee are provided.
  1. Road Traffic Act (Ch. 220), s. 34(1)(c) — Bona fide visitors may drive on a foreign or international licence for up to three months. ↩
  2. Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 2024, s. 5 inserting s. 60A — Police may impound uninsured or unlicensed vehicles from 1 January 2025. ↩
  3. Road Traffic Act (Ch. 220), s. 42C — Seat belts required for all occupants; child passenger seats mandatory for children under five in the rear seat. ↩
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