Laws of the Road
Driving in The Bahamas comes with responsibilities. The law sets clear rules for who can drive, how vehicles must be licensed and insured, and what happens if those rules are broken.
Understanding these requirements is not only essential for safe driving — it’s also a major part of preparing for the driving test.
This section covers the most important legal topics for road users:
Licensing & Tests
What you need to know about learner’s permits, the knowledge and road tests, and getting a full licence.Special Licences
Public Service Driver’s Licence and other special categories — who’s eligible (e.g., BahamaHost certified, 21 years or older, 3+ years licensed), what tests/interviews are required, and how to apply.Insurance & Documents
The documents every driver must carry, new 2024 insurance requirements, rules for renewal and cancellation, and the penalties for failing to produce them.Vehicle Standards & Equipment
The minimum safety standards for all vehicles — lights, tyres, mirrors, horns, exhausts, and how to mark and secure loads.Speed Limits
National speed limits in The Bahamas — 25 mph in settlements, 30 mph outside city limits, and 45 mph in rural areas — plus penalties for exceeding them.Seatbelts & Child Restraints
Who must wear a seatbelt, requirements for child seats, and the fines for failing to comply.Penalties & Offences
Common offences, fixed penalties, demerit points, vehicle impoundment, and how serious cases are handled in court.Alcohol & Driving
Legal alcohol limits in The Bahamas — 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood and 30 µg of alcohol per 100 ml of breath — why even small amounts are dangerous, and the consequences of driving impaired.