Taking to the road is one of the best ways to get a sense of the true personality of Barbados as you experience the landscape change from lush rolling hills and smooth white beaches to windswept bluffs and the towering cliffs of the northern and eastern coasts.


Car Hire Information
The driver of the rental car will be asked for a driver's license from home. All drivers must also carry a local permit that can be obtained from the rental agency or from any local Police Station for $10 BDS and is valid for one year from date of issue. Many companies require that the car be rented for a minimum number of days, so be sure to check. Moped rental is also a popular option on the island. Helmets are required by law and drivers will be expected to carry valid motorcycle licenses.

Insurance is highly recommended when renting a car. If you have a credit card that will insure your rental vehicle, make sure to check that the type of car you are renting is covered; all vehicles covered by insurance include unlimited liability for passengers and third party personal injury coverage. The local Collision Damage Waiver Insurance is offered by most rental agencies, is quite comprehensive and highly recommended. CDW gives you comprehensive insurance in the event of an accident but does not usually cover damage to rims and tires. Seat belts are compulsory and drivers incur a hefty fine if caught with passengers not using seat belts.

The rental company agent will show you the vehicle's features. Pay attention to this demonstration since most models are different in the Caribbean. Note the emergency hot line number of your company and check that they offer breakdown assistance.

If you have an accident, you must leave your vehicle in its position and call your car hire company and the police immediately - do not admit liability or agree to costs or compensation. For Police dial 211 and ambulance 511.

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Driving Tips
Remember that in Barbados you will be driving on the left side of the road. The island's narrow causeways, roundabouts and occasional blind corners make it a good idea to pay careful attention while driving here. Blue signs painted with a "P" indicate parking lots.

Visitors to the island are easily identifiable on the road by the 'H' number plate. Locals are usually accommodating of your confusion with directions, roundabouts, road signs, etc. and make allowances. However, since the H does identify you as a visitor you can be targets for pickpockets and harassing vagrants. Authorized security personnel at all locations are usually in uniform, so do not pay any one else who claims to be "security" to guard your vehicle. Please be careful with your possessions and place them in the boot/truck wherever possible and ensure that the vehicle is always locked when unattended.

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Speed Limits
In built-up areas or the city – 40 km/h
Rural areas outside the city – 60 km/h
ABC Highway – 80km/h

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Public Transportation
Barbados has a public transportation system, serving most of the island's population. Transit services are provided by the government-run Transport Board and private owners who operate route taxis (ZRs) and minibuses. Fare to any part of the island is $1.50 (Barbados dollars) per ride.

Tour Operators
Many tour companies on the island offer all-day transportation services, which take visitors to Barbados' main attractions. Air-conditioned coaches and a personal tour guide create a comfortable setting for an easy-going exploring experience.

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Taxicab Services
Taxicabs offer several options for seeing the island-luxury cars, small vans, or spacious coaches. In addition, taxis provide general transportation to and from various points around Barbados.

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