Special Licences
In addition to ordinary private driver’s licences, The Bahamas issues a range of special licences that allow drivers to operate passenger services, heavy commercial vehicles, or drive abroad. These licences require additional tests, endorsements, and qualifications.
Public Service Driver’s Licence
A Public Service Driver’s Licence is required if you wish to operate a taxi, livery car, omnibus, or tour car for hire or reward. [1]
➡ Operating a private vehicle for hire without a Public Service Licence is a serious offence. See Penalties & Offences for details.
Eligibility
- Bahamian citizen
- Age 21 or older
- Holder of a valid driver’s licence for at least 3 years
- BahamaHost certified
- Must successfully pass:
- An interview (assessing knowledge, character, and ethics)
- A practical driving test
Process
- Complete the official Public Service Driver’s Licence application.
- Submit required supporting documents (including character references, photos, and police certificates).
- On approval, a photo and signature are taken at the Road Traffic Department.
- Pay the relevant fee, and the licence is issued.
Fees (per year)
- Taxicab — $40
- Livery Car — $50
- Tour Car — $50
- Omnibus — $75
Public Service licences expire at the end of the holder’s birth month and must be renewed annually.
Franchises & Public Service Vehicles
In addition to a driver’s licence, each taxi, livery car, omnibus, or tour car must also have a valid franchise issued by the Road Traffic Authority. [1]
Key points
- A franchise licences the vehicle, while the Public Service Driver’s Licence qualifies the driver.
- Each public service vehicle must display the appropriate licence plates and markings (e.g., taxi plates).
- Franchises are limited in number and can only be issued, transferred, or cancelled by the Road Traffic Authority.
- The vehicle must be licensed, insured, and inspected like any other motor vehicle.
- Operating a public service vehicle without a franchise is an offence.
Fees
Franchise fees are payable annually along with vehicle licensing. Amounts vary depending on the vehicle category.
➡ See Public Service Driver’s Licence above for the driver qualification requirements.
Commercial Driver’s Licence (CDL)
Commercial licences are required to operate large vehicles or carry hazardous goods. [2]
➡ CDL holders must also comply with all safety and inspection standards. See Vehicle Standards & Equipment for details.
These are issued with endorsements that specify the type of commercial activity the driver is permitted to perform.
Endorsement Codes
- H — Hazardous materials
- N — Tank vehicle
- P — Passenger transport
- S — School bus
- X — Hazardous materials + tank vehicle
Classes
- Class A (Combination Vehicle): Over 26,000 lbs., towing more than 10,000 lbs.
- Class B (Straight Vehicle): Over 26,001 lbs., towing up to 10,000 lbs.
- Class C (Small Vehicle): 10,000–26,000 lbs., or passenger vehicles carrying more than 10 passengers.
Testing Requirements
- Written knowledge tests: General knowledge, Air brakes (if applicable), and specific endorsements
- Skills tests: Pre-trip inspection, basic control, and on-road driving
Fees (per year)
- Class A — $75
- Class B — $50
- Class C — $50
International Driver’s Licence
A Bahamian driver who intends to drive abroad may apply for an International Driver’s Licence. [3]
- This is an official translation of your Bahamian licence into multiple languages.
- Valid for 1 year only.
Eligibility & Process
- Must hold a valid Bahamian driver’s licence (see Licensing & Tests).
- Submit a completed application with two passport photos.
- Pay the prescribed fee.
- Licence is issued the same day, once documents are verified.
Fee
- International Driver’s Licence — $50