Rental Car Barbados
Car hire companies are limited in Barbados. If you are planning to go during peak season, then make your reservations ahead of time or you might be out of luck. The driving age is regulated by the individual car hire company. Check the terms of agreement first. In most cases, the minimum age is 21 and the maximum is 70 to 75.
15% government tax is applicable on all vehicles.
Some companies will require you to have had a valid driver's license (from your home country) for a certain period of time. This is usually between 24 to 36 months. Most car hire companies will deliver the rental vehicle to your hotel. Just ask about this service.
Additional equipment like child seats can also be available for rent.
Before you go, ask the company about local roadside assistance.
Info On Temporary Driving Permit In Barbados
Should you want to rent a car in Barbados, you will have to purchase a Barbados Driving License. You can obtain a Barbados drivers license for $10.00 BDS upon presenting a valid national or international license. This is valid for one year from purchase. This can be obtained from car hire companies, the Ministry of Transport (0830-1430 Monday to Friday), the airport (0800-2200 every day) or police stations in Hastings, Worthing and Holetown.
General Information About Barbados
Region: Central America and the Caribbean
Population: 263,800 September 2002
Capital: Bridgetown (pop. est 98,800 in 2002)
Climate: Tropical; rainy season (June to October)
Languages: English
Currency: 1 Barbadian dollar (Bds$) = 100 cents
National Holiday: Independence Day, 30 November (1966)
Health risks: Dengue fever, diarrhea and intestinal parasites; leptospirosis can be present in freshwater streams
Road Conditions In Barbados
Driving is done on the left in Barbados. The roads in Barbados are narrowly built. The main roads are fairly maintained, but caution should be exercised while venturing onto the backroads of the island. Take note that the rural roads can be poorly maintained. Barbados has a good network of roads which covers the entire island. Traffic drives on the left. There is a speed limit of 60 km/h (37 m/h per hour). The road journey from Bridgetown to Speightstown takes about 30 minutes, and to Holetown or Oistins about 20 minutes. Road signs are limited, so exercise caution on the road.
Driving Tips In Barbados
Although there are no government regulated seat belt laws, it is a general rule of thumb to always wear seat belts.
Use a child car seat appropriately.
Use caution and drive defensively.
Be wary of strangers trying to get you out of your car. The North and East are notorious for locals trying to rob tourists in their cars.
It is in your best interest to contact the Embassy directly to answer your specific questions about the driving laws.
More information about your Rental Car in Barbados
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