The Complete Guide to Driving in Jamaica

Today we want to share with you something special:

All you need to know about driving in Jamaica

With its diversity of landscapes, Jamaica is one of the main candidates for a trip to the Caribbean. One of the largest countries in the tropics, there is no better way to explore the mountains and coast of Jamaica than by taking the highway. But what is the best way to prepare for your Jamaica vacation if you are considering using a rental car? From international driving requirements to navigating the country's highways and back roads, read on for your best guide to driving in Jamaica.

Driving requirements

A passport is not required to drive in Jamaica, although a copy is recommended when applying for the rental vehicle. Driver's license (national driver's license is acceptable as long as it is printed in English), IDP, registration, and insurance are required. The minimum age to drive in Jamaica is 18, but the minimum age to rent is 21. Some rental companies may charge more if the drivers are under 25 years of age. Also, you will need to have a portfolio of at least two years.

Below is your checklist for driving in Jamaica:

Driving license: Mandatory
Passport: recommended (provide a copy)
IDP: Required
Registration: Required
Insurance: Mandatory (third party fire and theft coverage required)

Rules of the road

While there are similarities between driving in Jamaica and the US, the most striking difference is driving on the left side of the road. There is also a very low blood alcohol limit in Jamaica, so even one drink is likely to push you over the legal limit.

Drive on the Left Side of the Road: In Jamaica, you must drive on the left side of the road, so drivers who are shy or unaccustomed to this procedure should be given advance notice before renting a vehicle. Also, drivers should leave at least one or two car lengths in front of them, in the case of wet roads.
Passing: In Jamaica, do not pass any vehicle at the following: crossing, turn, railroad crossing, turn, bridge. Pass just to the right and never over the shoulder. If there is a solid white line (double or single) in the center of the road, do not exceed it.
Crossing: At the intersection with traffic lights, continue only at the green traffic light. Never enter an intersection at red or yellow traffic lights; If you are already in the intersection when the yellow light comes on, proceed with caution.
Seat Belts: Seat belts must be permanently worn by all passengers in the vehicle. Violators will be fined.
Speed Limits: Do not exceed the speed limit, or you will be subject to a fine. The limit is 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways, 80 km/h (50 mph) on open roads, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities and towns unless otherwise noted. Speed-sensing devices are not illegal on vehicles. There is an increase in speeding tickets in a school zone.
Cell Phones: The use of cell phones is not allowed while driving in Jamaica, violators will be subject to a fine. Hands-free devices are acceptable.

Alcohol / Drug Use: The legal limit for blood alcohol content is 35mg per 100ml of blood in Jamaica. This is half the UK BAC and slightly less than the US BAC.
Car seats: All passengers under the age of 3 must ride in a car seat. If the car seat is facing the car, it must face rearward and the airbag must be deactivated. Children from 3 to 12 years old cannot sit in front of the vehicle and a restraint system appropriate for their height and age must be used.
Toll Roads: There are many toll roads in Jamaica, in Spanish Town, Vineyards, and Portmore. The toll rate varies from J $ 70 to J $ 700, depending on the size of the vehicle.
Immediate fines: You will receive a fine from the police if you violate any of these laws or regulations. The ticket can be paid for at any police station in Jamaica.
In an emergency: For the police, dial 119. For ambulances or firefighters, dial 110.

Toll Roads in Jamaica

There are many toll roads in Jamaica and the price varies for each toll depending on the class of the vehicle. Class 1 vehicles are less than 5.6 feet (1.7 meters) tall; Class 2 vehicles are over 5.6 feet (1.7 meters) tall, but less than 18 feet (5.5 meters) long. Class 3 is over 5.6 feet (1.7 meters) high and over 18 feet (5.5 meters) long. Read the toll road charges, in Jamaican dollars:

Portmore Toll Per Vehicle: Class 1: $240; Class 2: $380; Class 3: $730
Spanish Town Toll Per Vehicle: Class 1: $170; Class 2: $260; Class 3: $470
Vineyard Toll Per Vehicle: Class 1: $480; Class 2: $700; Class 3: $1,320
May Pen Toll Per Vehicle: Class 1: $120; Class 2: $200; Class 3: $400

Things to Know When Driving in Jamaica

Navigation

Roads can often be poorly marked in rural areas. Request information from a local or call your hotel or final destination in advance. Download a navigation app ahead of time to prepare.

Holes

When it rains in Jamaica (which often happens), the road can be filled with dangerous holes. As the locals know which roads to use, it is a bad sign if it is raining and you are the only one in your car on the selected road. If you find yourself taking a winding road, reconsider your route. In addition, the toll roads, although more expensive, are better paved.

Rental cars

Make sure your car insurance is covered by the rental car and if not, we recommend that you purchase bad weather insurance (mentioned above). Shy drivers who are not used to driving on the left side of the road should consider relying on private transportation and taxis from the airport to the hotel and again for excursions. The cost of toll roads also makes the option of not renting a car even more attractive.

We hope you enjoy watching this video about Tips for when Driving in Jamaica as a Tourist

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgkLRZYOW_8

Source: Top Ten Travel

Did you find this post useful or inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your Travel Board on Pinterest! 😊

Once again, thank you for visiting our website!

We hope you've enjoyed exploring the content we've created for you.

Give yourself the chance to learn, get inspired, and have even more fun, keep browsing...