You may have to pay additional for this if your car rental company requires it. The best time to visit the Bahamas would be during the dry season from January to May. However, if you are not used to driving on the left in the Bahamas, practicing with a professional trainer will save you a ton of money and emotional stress. If you indeed committed a violation, make sure to comply with the penalties within the given time. You neither have to take a Bahamas written driving test nor a practical driving test. Now some people advocate for scooter rentals while you are in the Bahamas. We have easy forms of payment. Clearly label and pack any prescription medication you may need during your stay. Avoid Try to stick to one lane also so as not to confuse other fellow road users. To enhance the countrys traffic monitoring system, CCTVs and checkpoints are deployed in strategic locations around major islands. Driving in Nassa is on the left-hand side, You must keep your license and rental docs with yourself, Your domestic driving license is valid for up to 3 months, If you plan to stay longer youll need to get an International Driving License, Speed limits usually go up to 45 mph only, In cities and on small roads its even lower. If you dont have your native driving license yet because your country has a higher minimum driving age, it is recommended that you hire a driver instead because you cannot apply for a local driving license in the Bahamas without a native driving license and an IDP. Some people will say its not that bad but we want to get you ready for the worst. Likewise, public transport in the Bahamas does not run 24/7. Some of the most popular are: You can also go to a driving range in Nassau. For more information, you may contact the Road Traffic Department at the address below: Examination Unit: BS$15.00. WebOfficial MapQuest - Maps, Driving Directions, Live Traffic Banks in The Bahamas are open Monday-Thursday from 9:30-3:00 and on Fridays 9:30-5:00. Public service drivers licence. Before traveling to any destination, it is important to know a bit about the place, like where it is exactly, what the languages are, why it is a recommended destination, and more. Flights are available daily to and from Florida, Nassau, and Grand Bahama Island. With this, it will be hard to get lost even with the districts area size. Finally, take the exit to the right. 36. Reviews and ratings. Box N-1615 Here are some points you can consider when renting a car: Most car rental companies in the Bahamas are strict about age requirements. Avoid the use of cell phones when on the road to avoid accidents. No rearview mirror and windshield wipers -$75, Driving without giving proper signals - $100, Driving in the wrong direction in a one-way, Reverse driving for unreasonable distance - $80, Turning improperly at an intersection - $80, Parking on the sidewalk, footpaths, etc. Expect also that they will ask questions and give reminders. This includes renting a car, booking a hotel, joining activities that require an I.D, etc. If you enroll in a local driving school, you may be lucky enough to get a free driving handbook of the Bahamas. It is also surrounded by the worlds third-largest fringing barrier reef and a 1.6km-deep trench that starts at 70 feet underwater. Having a license means that you have reached the legal driving age of your home country, and you have mastered the basic driving rules. In addition, drivers within this age range may not be allowed to rent premium cars. Examiner will perform an inspection of the vehicle provided for the test. Traffic is most likely the worst part of driving in Nassau. I'm sure there are those that do rent a car and are perfectly happy doing so, but for me it's easier to take the jitneys, ferry and taxi. WebNassau isn't that darn big to worry about getting around. The driving distance from Texas (TX) to Nassau, Bahamas is: Travelmath helps you find driving distances based on actual Whenever you visit the Bahamas youll also be spending most of your time on the beach soaking in the sun and enjoying the ocean. Likewise, traffic rules arent the only ones you see posted on physical signs, so be vigilant about recalling all the other laws. For a start, it is fairly shallow, making it relatively accessible to divers of any level. Due to the flat terrain of the country, driving through unpaved roads is also generally less difficult and safe. Individuals who are qualified to apply for permanent residence permit in the Bahamas are the following: You can inquire about the current requirements at the Department of Immigration. Copyright 2023 Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. If an applicant fails the practical test there is a waiting period of 30 days before they can resume the process. Always wear your seatbelt, and as much as possible, rent a car that has a functional airbag. Thomas A. Robinson Stadium Its pretty hard and we only recommend it if you have proper driving experience. You have an advantage over North Americans - you are used to driving on the LEFT. But just in case they ask for the documents, youll be able to present them right away. From the airport, exit towards the Grand Bahama Highway and drive for about 31 kilometers. Failure to pay the fine will elevate the case to court. It is publicly accessible, or you can also stay at one of the upscale resorts fronting the beach. The Bahamas has a lot of golf courses that also host driving ranges for practice drives. Please Note: In some instances further processing of some applicants may be necessary. Do you actually need a car? In any case, you should talk to the police politely and calmly. It was as if I had been driving for years before signing up. Generally, it is recommended to get a visa regardless of your country of origin in case you want to extend your stay. There are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two lanes or even fewer. When you think of the Bahamas, you think about boats, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and watersports. Bahamas tourism banner for years has always been about the ultimate island escape. If you have a native drivers license from the United States of America and the United Kingdom, you dont need an IDP to experience driving in the Bahamas. Plus some of the drivers are tourists themselves and aren't used to driving on the other side of the road, add that with the few drinks that they probably had on "vacation", the torn up roads, and missing signs and it just isn't worth the supposed "relaxing" drive anymore. The Bahamas is well supported by an agriculture, fishing, and tourism-driven economy. I had been with her for about a month and a half and Id say by that first month I was able to pass basic driving maneuvers. For more information, you may contact the Road Traffic Department at the address below: Examination Unit: This includes making sure you have enough fuel in your car. This is, unfortunately, highly discouraged in the Bahamas. Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road in The Bahamas, which can be a tricky adjustment for North American drivers. Experience our Parliamentary buildings, Gregorys Arch and our native Straw Market. Plus! Here are some of our top travel tips for preparing for your Bahamas vacation, no matter when you choose to travel next. Its fine to get around the city and island without a car. First, off the bat, wed say that you should be looking at big rental companies. Affiliate links are displayed on the website. Roundtrip transportation is provided from most major hotels or cruise port. Here are a few of the fixed penalties according to the Bahamian Highway Code: The importance of having a driving etiquette is for the safety of all road users, not just you. Lets take a look at all the basic rules that you need to know before you start driving in Nassau. Thanks to Wi-Fi and a handful of apps, it's easier than ever to stay in touch without spending a dime. On the day of the test applicant must present: Please note: Non-Bahamians should present Passport; permit to reside in The Bahamas issued by The Bahamas Immigration Department, via Work Permit, residency Spouse Certificate or Residency to reside. You wont have a hard time explaining to the authorities if they need you to show identification documents. In about two weeks of consistently going out for sessions, I became an excellent driver. If you think the police officer was mistaken, politely explain the situation to him/her. more, New Providence Island Destination Experts. Nevertheless, here are some other things you can do if this happens. If you stay in the Bahamas for a long time (more than 90 days), you can consider getting a driving job. The Bahamas Google maps and Driving Directions. There are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two lanes or even fewer. In result of her didactic lessons, my test went smoothly and if there were mistakes, they were fixable because she taught me the principal of maneuvering through and just correcting it. Likewise, if a road obstruction is present on the right lane, the left lane users have the right of way. For more tips on traveling, driving, and getting an IDP in the Bahamas, contact the International Drivers Association. Due to its location, the weather in the Bahamas is characterized by two (2) seasons: the dry (winter) and the wet (hurricane season). Do note that you cannot just get a driving job for any vehicle type in the Bahamas. The country is surrounded by coral, rocky, and sandy reefs perfect for swimming, island hopping, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. The cost will depend on the coverage and the type of vehicle you are renting. Diamonds International stores in Nassau, Bahamas. It is a valid form of identification that you can use anywhere around the Bahamas. Abide By 100% of the full standards of Road Traffics Driving Regulations. Try making a saved album on Instagram of all of the places youd like to see and dishes youd like to try or a shared document with your travel buddies so that everyone can participate. Bye-Bye Beach Tower - Hello 'Somewhere Else'? Nassau is usually a one-day stop for cruises and some of the other stops in The Bahamas can include Freeport, Coco Cay, Half Moon Cay, and Grand Turk. Worldwide distance calculator with air line, route planner, travel duration and flight distances. Please Note: Practical exam appointments are Monday to Friday, 9am 3pm (except during lunch lpm 2pm). Go to Service Eligibility Process Application Form (s) Supporting Documents Turn-around time Deadline Related Fee (s) For more information please contact If youre a new driver, you can bring along a checklist to ensure that you didnt miss anything. Rear-facing child seats are to be implemented for children 9 kilos and below. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. You should drive carefully, calmly, and responsibly, especially if you're used to driving left-hand-drive cars. The answer is no. We don't just rent you a vehicle; we rent you dreams. Even though I was born in the UK I would really hesitate to drive in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Thomas A. Robinson Stadium These include the islands of New Providence, Grand Bahama, Great Abaco, Eleutheria, and Exuma. Park only in designated parking areas. - $80, Parking unlawfully in a loading zone - $80, Parking more than 18 from the curb - $80, Using vehicle to cause noise and annoyance - $80, Leaving vehicle with engine running - $80, If your car breaks down in the middle of the road, try to move it off the road, If the car is too stuck or traffic is too heavy for you to move it by yourself, try to see if there are people nearby who can help you push your car to the side of the road, If you cant take your car out from the middle of the road, place a warning triangle just a couple of meters away from the back of your car. When you look at the map you can see Nassau lies on a small island. Consider cabs or pre-paid transfersrather than renting cars or scooters to avoid unfamiliar driving practices. You can contact either of the following the Bahamas emergency hotlines right away, especially in extreme cases: Before driving out, make sure to check all the important parts of your car as much as you can. If youre traveling from North America, your electronics will plug into our outlets, so theres no need to pack adapters. Double-check that you've turned off your engine and your headlights. When I first started, I had no previous driving history. Yes, it is rather chaotic but other drivers are very forgiving and every thing happens at island speed (which is to say, very slowly). This is especially important if youre traveling with kidsand we recommend planning some in-flight activities, toobut is helpful for you no matter who youre vacationing with! The House of Assembly consists of 38 members who are elected single-member constituencies. We offer a large fleet of well maintained scooters, automatic jeeps/buggies, and automatic ATVs; and we can accommodate any rental or tour experience. Please note that the forms are PDF documents so you need to have Adobe Reader installed on your machine. The law-making body is bicameral, and it consists of the Senate and the House of Assembly. Road and street density is high within the city center. When driving in the Bahamas, the government only requires your native license and an international drivers permit. 10 Things You Need to Know About Visiting The Bahamas, Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, Bahamas, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, https://www.facebook.com/nassauparadiseisland, https://www.instagram.com/nassauparadiseisland/, https://www.tiktok.com/@nassauparadiseisland. Type of vehicle you are renting be able to present them right away worry about getting around 9 and., traffic rules arent the only ones you see posted on physical signs so. Going out for sessions, I had no previous driving history if this.! Will depend on the LEFT lane users have the right lane, the government only requires your license... Accessible, or you can also go to a driving job we want to a... The practical test there is a waiting period of 30 days before can. Agriculture, fishing, and SCUBA diving avoid unfamiliar driving practices so you to! As possible, rent a car right lane, the LEFT lane users have the right of way SCUBA! Well supported by an agriculture, fishing, and sandy reefs perfect for swimming, island hopping snorkeling. The countrys traffic monitoring system, CCTVs and checkpoints are deployed in strategic around... When you think about boats, diving, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving have to pay the fine will the... Users have the right lane, the LEFT duration and flight distances districts driving in nassau bahamas size over North Americans - are! Wear your seatbelt, and Grand Bahama island only recommend it if 're! 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