Skip to main content
↑ Back to top

Before You Set Off

This page covers what you must do by law, what you should do for safety, and what is recommended for convenience and preparedness before any journey.

These are the things you must do — they are required by law.

  • Valid driver’s licence
    Visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if the licence is not in English.

  • Valid vehicle licence & inspection
    Vehicles must be registered, licensed, and inspected.

  • Motor insurance in force
    Driving without insurance is an offence.

  • New in 2025
    Police may impound an uninsured or unlicensed vehicle until documents are produced and a $300 release fee is paid.

➡ For full details, see Insurance & Documents.

Vehicle Condition Checklist

These are things you should check every time. They help prevent breakdowns and accidents.

  • Check tyres
  • Test brakes/steering
  • Test lights/indicators
  • Clean windscreen; check wipers
  • Adjust seat, belt, mirrors, head restraint
  • Secure loads

➡ For more on legal requirements, see Vehicle Standards & Equipment.

Personal Readiness

These are rules you must follow, combined with best practices you should adopt.

  • Seatbelts: Must be worn by driver and passengers.
  • Child restraints: Children under 5 must be in an approved seat in the rear.

➡ For full legal rules and penalties, see Seatbelts & Child Restraints.

  • Fitness to drive: Do not drive impaired by alcohol, drugs, illness, or fatigue.
  • Distraction control: Set navigation, music, climate, and phone before moving.
  • Visibility: Clear windows; use dipped headlights if visibility is poor.

Loads, Towing & Modifications

Some of these are musts under the law, while others are safety practices you should follow.

  • Secure loads: Nothing should fall, obscure plates/lights, or block your view.
  • Towing: Trailer must have working brake lights, reflectors, and hitch security.
  • Noise/emissions: Don’t drive with defective exhausts or excessive smoke/noise.

➡ For details on loads and prohibited modifications, see Vehicle Standards & Equipment.

Documents to Carry

These are not all legal requirements but are recommended to make your life easier if stopped or in an emergency.

  • Driver’s licence
  • Proof of insurance
  • Vehicle licence/inspection papers
  • IDP (if a visitor and licence not in English)
  • Emergency contacts (insurer, roadside, family)

Final 10-Second Cockpit Drill

These are recommended steps for every journey — quick checks before you move off.

The S.M.A.R.T. Check

A simple five-point drill to remember before starting your car:

  • Seat & steering set; head restraint at eye level
  • Mirrors adjusted; clear view
  • Air & climate; demisters set
  • Restraints on; passengers belted
  • Tech set; phone on DND, nav programmed

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to drive without insurance in The Bahamas?
Yes. It is unlawful to use or permit the use of a motor vehicle on a road without valid insurance.
What is the maximum punishment for driving without insurance?
A person convicted may be fined up to $400 or imprisoned for three months, or both, and will be disqualified from holding a licence for at least 12 months. Under the 2025 amendments, police may also impound the vehicle until proof of insurance is provided and a $300 release fee is paid.
What do I need to drive in The Bahamas?
You must have a valid driver’s licence, proof of insurance, and a licensed/inspected vehicle. Visitors should also carry their passport and, if their licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Can I use my U.S. driver’s licence in The Bahamas?
Yes. Bona fide visitors may drive on a valid U.S. or other foreign licence for up to three months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English.
Do I need to carry my driver’s licence with me?
Yes. You must be able to produce your licence when asked by a police officer. If you cannot, you may be required to present it later at a police station, and the vehicle may be detained until documents are shown.
Do children have to be in a car seat?
Yes. Children under 5 must be secured in an approved child restraint in the rear of the vehicle.
What do you want to do?
Which problem did you find? (tick all that apply)