Why carry an IDP while driving in Jamaica?
Your IDP is a valid form of identification in more than 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information in the 12 most widely spoken languages in the world – it is understandable to most of the local officials and authorities of the countries you visit.
It translates your identification information into 12 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don’t. Jamaica highly recommends an International Driving Permit.
Driving Rules in Jamaica
Dance to the beat of reggae music while sipping a glass of rum! Discover Jamaica and be amazed. Its breath-taking scenes and crystal clear beaches will be sure to last. Drive your own car to complete the experience!
Important Reminders:
- Traffic moves on the left side of the road.
- The minimum driving age is 18 years old. For hiring a car, a driver must be 25 years or older and has hold a driver license at least for 12 months.
- While driving, a driver and all passengers in the car must wear seat belts.
- Children 12 years old and below must sit in the back seats of the vehicle; children under 4 years must be ridden in special child seats.
- Overtaking is only on the right.
- It is not permitted to overtake at pedestrian and railway crossing; at a road junction, curve or bend, brow of a hill; on a hump back bridge; where the road narrows.
- Speed limits are: in towns – 50km/h (31 mph); in open roads – 80 km/h 950 mph); on highway – 110km/h.
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.08%.
- The police phone number is 119.
Additional info for driving in Jamaica
Most roads are narrow, and a lot of roads are in poor conditions without signage. Foreign drivers should be very cautious on roads and always watch out for people walking in the road and cars driving in the middle of the road.
Heavy rains can occur at any time of the year and frequently leave roads impassable. Drivers should know media reports for information on road conditions.
During crab season, all roads near the ocean are filled with land crabs crossing the street to get to the ocean.
Foreign visitors should avoid driving at night. It is advisable to have closed windows and doors should at all times.
Highway 2000 is a toll road; it is passable to pay the toll by cash or by a TAG card.
Driving in Jamaica in the Winter
Jamaica has a tropical climate so winter is the least of your concerns. The rainy months are usually May to June and September to October. Take extra precautions when driving during the rainy season.
Enjoy your stay and have a safe travel.
How to get your IDP
We’ve streamlined the application process down by creating a platform that guides you so you know exactly what you’ll need to successfully complete your application
1. Apply Online
Start your application for International Driver’s License Get the IDP.
2. Upload Photos
Make sure to upload an updated photo and with the correct parameters.
3. Get approved
Wait for your confirmation and you are ready to go!
Mike Wessells
“I was renting a car in Italy when i found out i need to get an International Driving License, after a quick online search and 5min application. i was able to get my IDP in 15 Minutes.. I am very pleased with the service I received”
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