driving in nassau bahamas
Stuart Cove/Runway Wall. After youve booked an insanely cheap flight and arrive at the airport the first thing you notice is that people drive on the left in the Bahamas. If you need to stop temporarily along the road, drive your vehicle to the side most lane and look for a spot where it will not cause any inconvenience to the general traffic and public. Its fine to get around the city and island without a car. The most preferred age range is between 25-69. I highly recommend Munroes driving school for learners who are keen about learning the rules and regulations of the road. Experience our Parliamentary buildings, Gregorys Arch and our native Straw Market. It is also surrounded by the worlds third-largest fringing barrier reef and a 1.6km-deep trench that starts at 70 feet underwater. Box N-1615 For a start, it is fairly shallow, making it relatively accessible to divers of any level. When youre in an area with dense traffic, always follow the three-second rule wherein you give allow three seconds before you follow the vehicle in front of you. So while youre bustling to look for that street corner to turn to, youll also need to keep your eyes on the road for other road users. Whenever you visit the Bahamas youll also be spending most of your time on the beach soaking in the sun and enjoying the ocean. Concentrating will also help you drive defensively. However, this comes with a few disadvantages. RTD Launches New Computerized Transport Management System (TMS), Extended Hours at National Stadium Office, Operating Hours during Peak Licencing Periods. Driving may seem a little different partly because its on the left, takes a little to get adjusted to. Present your Transport Management Number (TMN) received during registration to Customer Service Representative (CSR). Thomas A. Robinson Stadium We cant leave you without some nice tips about renting a car in Nassau. I suppose the fact is, if you are staying in any of the resort areas, you really do not need a car, but if you like to explore it can be fun to have one for a day or twoand it really need not be a big issue. The fine is to be paid within a designated period. According to the World Health Organization, common factors that lead to traffic accidents worldwide include: In the case of the Bahamas, multiple accounts have reported that one of the leading causes of traffic accidents is reckless and aggressive drivers that dont exercise proper road etiquette. Road closures may occasionally be implemented on some parts of the Bahamas, mostly due to road construction and rehabilitation. An exception to the minimum age requirement to rent a car is that some car rental companies may require additional fees if the driver is between 21 - 24 years old. The most common type of insurance required by lessors is the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). Guided tours are a preference for many first-time travelers. This road is good quality and its the best for exploring all the places. WebBowcar Rentals was a pioneer of the scooter rental concept and guided scooter tour business on Nassau. P.O. Consider cabs or pre-paid transfersrather than renting cars or scooters to avoid unfamiliar driving practices. Diamonds International stores in Nassau, Bahamas. He named the country Baja Mar, which meant shallow sea, and later became The Islands of the Bahamas. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and most debit cards are also widely accepted throughout Nassau Paradise Island, as well as travelers cheques. Photographer @ the Atlantis for family picture? Finally, take the exit to the right. Even when there isnt a possibility. The country is surrounded by coral, rocky, and sandy reefs perfect for swimming, island hopping, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. But dont worry, there are plenty of alternative roads considering the improving road network in the country. Besides, emergency vehicles always have the right of way. I couldnt have chosen a better school!., To me, Munros driving school has to be the best in the Bahamas. The current focus of the unit is to deal with surface transport readmore. Affiliate links are displayed on the website. Anyone who has obtained a domestic drivers license from their home country can apply for an IDP. And whats the beach without parties, and parties without alcohol?Remember that alcohol and driving are never complementary. It gets more and more relaxing as you get away from big hubs and you will even be able to enjoy the scenery. All these so you can have an enjoyable staycation in this quaint archipelagic nation. If you drive in Nassau City and Family Island Settlements and in urban areas, youll need to maintain a speed of 25mph and below. Renting in the Bahamas will be expensive and we think that almost any car class will suffice. Likewise, if a road obstruction is present on the right lane, the left lane users have the right of way. But just in case they ask for the documents, youll be able to present them right away. You should not also park along with public service areas or designated parking spaces in parking lots for emergency vehicles. WebIn addition, permit holders when driving any vehicle which he/she has not qualified by test to drive, must carry the prescribed "L" plates at the front and back of the vehicle. We provide a reputable and profes- sional service that aims to give you the confidence to pass your test and drive safely on the roads. To date, the country remains a member of the Commonwealth. The Bahamas is a nation composed of about 700 islands located just off Miami, Florida, and northeast of Cuba. WebMunroes Driving School exists to produce the most competent, confident and wise drivers in The Bahamas; trained by the most competent, patient, passionate and compassionate The Districts of the Bahamas cover relatively small land areas. If you come across a checkpoint, reduce your speed and prepare your driving documents. We might earn a commission whenever you click them. Subscribe Public service drivers licence. These were among the most empowering years of Bahamian history. The British Monarch is the Head of State, while the Prime Minister is the Head of Government. Head and tail lights are in good condition (not dimmed? This includes renting a car, booking a hotel, joining activities that require an I.D, etc. When we were there a few weeks ago we went to a friend's house way back on the south east corner of the island and the traffic was still pretty crazy. WebDriving Test - (Practical Examination) The second phase of the Drivers Licence Test consists of a practical examination designed to test the applicant's ability and judgment Younger people are presumed to be inexperienced, while senior citizens are presumed to have reduced physical reflexes already. In junctions where there are no traffic lights or policemen to guide you, wait for the traffic ahead to clear before turning with caution. Enjoy walking tours of Forts Fincastle and Charlotte, the Water Tower and Queens Staircase. Eastern Entrance Section 4 Rm 81E However, numbers and frequency decrease as you move away from the city. Maintaining your speed below limits will help you achieve your ideal overall stopping distance. Tour Duration: 2 hours View Map Visit Official Website This receipt is to be returned to the clerk who will process your documents for issuance of a learners permit. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Apps like WhatsApp allow you to text, call and video chat with family and friends at home. Persons learning to drive any vehicle must havea learners permit. 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. Cruising around the island you will see the locals drive like madmen and overtake at every possibility. To enhance the countrys traffic monitoring system, CCTVs and checkpoints are deployed in strategic locations around major islands. Do not be fooled by the size of Bimini. This 4 km strip of white sand is mostly popular for its powdery sand, calm waters, luxury resorts, casinos, and the sought-after Bahamian nightlife. In the rarest circumstance that you come into a road accident, do not be agitated. First, off the bat, wed say that you should be looking at big rental companies. Ltd. All rights reserved. The Exumas is another tranquil district of the Bahamas and one of the most exclusive. Driving in the Bahamas entails driving on the left side of the road. With the continuously growing population and the number of road users, everyone must follow the guidelines. It can get breezy if youre out on a boat excursion, and youll want to be comfortable on cooler nights after a day in the hot Bahamas sun. Save big on 3-year valid permit up to 60% off plus FREE worldwide shipping! Eastern Entrance Section 4 When you want to stay on the island of Eleuthera, you can rent a car from: Website: https://www.johnsonscarentaleleuthera.com/. It also includes how you operate your car yourself, even without the presence of other road users. It was as if I had been driving for years before signing up. The fee of BS$15.00 covers the cost of the theory examination and the practical examination. The official language of the Bahamas is British English. If you enroll in a local driving school, you may be lucky enough to get a free driving handbook of the Bahamas. If you dont feel safe in such small cars then you can look at bigger sedans or SUVs. When you want to experience driving in Exuma, Bahamas, you can rent a car from: When you want to stay on the island of Andros, you can rent a car from: Contact Number: (242) 471-3386 / (242) 329-2080, Address: Queens Highway, Long Bay, South Andros, Contact Number: (242) 369-1702 / (242) 369-1704, Address: Queens Highway, Congo Town, South Andros. Former City Market on Cable Beach Now Open, Just Used Nassau Grocer Delivery Service at Harborside. WebHow do I get from Nassau Bahamas to Freeport Bahamas? You have an advantage over North Americans - you are used to driving on the LEFT. When you want to experience driving in Freeport, Bahamas, and Grand Bahama, you can rent a car from: Address: Grand Bahama International Airport, Email:https://cv-car-rental-co-ltd.business.site/https://cv-car-rental-co-ltd.business.site/. The greatness of this driving school is what helped me get my drivers license, and I would gladly encourage others to patronize them.. Once documents have been verified, applicant will be called into the licence studio to have photo taken for the learners permit. Our Instructor is Road Traffic Department approved or Licensed, talented, gifted, mentally and physically fit and have a long driving instruction history. Likewise, almost all parking spaces are free. Licence Plates beginning with AH are ready for pickup! Where is Nassau Bahamas? Other insurance policies are required by car rental companies, though. Roads in built-up areas, especially in the capital, are well-paved. If you drank alcohol before driving, make sure that you fall below the following limits: If you have plans to drink alcohol, make sure to eat a lot of food before drinking and sober down first before driving. Likewise, public transport in the Bahamas does not run 24/7. Road and traffic violations in the Bahamas can be categorized as minor or a major offense. Economizing a portion of your car rental budget may give you more opportunities to experience the islands. The traffic is just too crazy and the distances too small. : (242)604-5402 |(242)604-5404 | (242)604-5409, The Transport Policy and Planning Unit was formed by the Government of The Bahamas as an initiative to develop its policy and planning capabilities in the Transport Sector. Its pretty hard and its hard due to traffic and other drivers. Complete and submit aLicence to Drive a Motor Vehicle Form along withsupporting documents to the clerk at the Road Traffic Department, Drivers Licence Unit, Clarence Bain Bldg. That way you can rent for a small period, save money, and check out everything you need to check out in Nassau and on the island. If it isnt an immigration checkpoint or a security checkpoint, the police will less likely check your driving documents. Surcharges are added because younger people and senior citizens are riskier when it comes to handling a car. When you look at the map you can see Nassau lies on a small island. When in Nassau What to do when on a shorter trip to Traffic is most likely the worst part of driving in Nassau. DRIVING DISTANCE FLYING TIME COST PLACES. more, New Providence Island Destination Experts. Be alert for any possible additional hazards like fire. WebDrive through historic Nassau with a narrated history of The Bahamas, its buildings and sites. Park only in designated parking areas. Local and tourist populations are also concentrated in Nassau. The implementation of this regulation may be more lenient in some smaller, less crowded islands. These are usually arrows or dividers that guide vehicles which lane to line up on depending on the direction they need to turn. If youre not sure yet whether youd want to drive in the Bahamas and get an IDP, you can decide to get one once youre there. Traffic Police are mostly concentrated in busy road sections. Please Note: Non-Bahamians must be interviewed before receiving any driving credentials in The Bahamas. Some foreigners offer driving services not just to help them with the expenses but simply because they just enjoy going around the country. Avoid the use of cell phones when on the road to avoid accidents. You can check out Bahamas.com for the complete list of carriers. This includes making sure you have enough fuel in your car. Due to the flat terrain of the country, driving through unpaved roads is also generally less difficult and safe. You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form. This is where you will see a lot of private properties owned by celebrities and other high-profile people. When driving in the Bahamas, the government only requires your native license and an international drivers permit. You may have to pay additional for this if your car rental company requires it. Also, you need not feel intimated if that doesnt suite your budget you may pay as you go. There are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two lanes or even fewer. Butdriving in Nassau is a doddle and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on June 05, 2020. In addition, the destinations will most likely be limited. Only attempt this if you have years upon years of scooter driving experience. The second phase of the Drivers Licence Test consists of a practical examination designed to test the applicants ability to driving a motor vehicle. You can also find SUVs in the Bahamas. Before you overtake, you need to make sure that the road is clear. When traveling to The Bahamas, dont forget to bring proof of your Similar to getting a driving job, you have to secure a valid work permit first before officially starting your work as a guide. Birth Certificate along with an Official Picture ID. Road Traffic Department If you want to master driving on the left in the Bahamas, you can kick off your practice at Eleuthera. With this, youll need to be aware of any oncoming traffic and cross the bridge cautiously. Actually, no. The majority of mortalities are composed of pedestrians, followed by drivers, passengers, then two-wheeled drivers. This list is for you to decide what is the same and what is different compared to your own country. According to Real Motor, people in the Bahamas prefer vehicles that have a high fuel efficiency and have parts that are readily available in the country. With so many places to visit and explore, you would want your itinerary to be infinite and flexible. The Bahamas archipelago consists of 700 islands and 2,400 cays. The Bahamas follows a Constitutional Parliamentary Democracy. Banks in The Bahamas are open Monday-Thursday from 9:30-3:00 and on Fridays 9:30-5:00. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Travel blogs, destination websites, forums like TripAdvisor, social media posts, and travel agents are all incredible resources for finding out things like hotel and resort amenities, restaurants, things to do, local shops, food to try, what weather to expect, transportation tips and more. Considered to be one of the worlds best scuba and snorkeling sites, Stuart Cove showcases some of the very best that the Bahamas has to offer. Bahamas is a unique beautiful country. However, you will have to pay another BS$15.00 to take the practical examination. This is a cheaper alternative to applying for a hard copy too. With the density of traffic in the Bahamas, you might startle and confuse a lot of road users, so be responsible when using your car horn and headlights. From the airport, exit towards the Grand Bahama Highway and drive for about 31 kilometers. Fines for traffic violations can be high, and you wouldnt want to add surprise expenses to your budget. If you run into an accident with other road users, also check whether they need assistance. Concerning driving directions, the Bahamas has put up adequate quantities of them throughout the islands, even in far less crowded districts. Pirates, treasures, and walking on planks have filled a lot of childrens books and classical non-fictions. Join more than 150,000 others who receive exclusive access to the best beach deals in Nassau Paradise Island. This island alone has more than 200 blue holes, a lot of which are unexplored. However, some allow younger and older renters. Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on October 22, 2014. If you see or hear sirens and lights coming from an ambulance, a fire truck, or a police car, you will have to drive to the side of the road until the emergency vehicles have passed. If you are looking to rent a car for your Bahamas vacation lets see what driving in Nassau and the surrounding area is like. There are many driving schools in Nassau, Bahamas. We offer a large fleet of well maintained scooters, automatic jeeps/buggies, and automatic ATVs; and we can accommodate any rental or tour experience. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. This makes the experience less dangerous and less stressful overall. Explore all of it by driving when you get your International Driving Permit. This should be complemented by your car and/or hand signals. Continue driving until you reach the roundabout by the Cable Beach Post Office. Non-Bahamians should present Passport, Permit to Reside, issued by The Bahamas Immigration Department (Work Permit, Residency Permit, Spousal Permit or Permanent Resident Permit). If you indeed committed a violation, make sure to comply with the penalties within the given time. This is, unfortunately, highly discouraged in the Bahamas. But the country is much more than pink sand beaches and wide intertidal zones. 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. Download our Smart TV App so you can get in a Bahamas state of mind and start getting inspired for your next beach getaway, Well see you in Nassau Paradise Island! English is the native language in the Bahamas. Latest Pictures / Photos. Restaurant and bar bills in The Bahamas may automatically add a15% gratuity so you dont need to leave a tip, unless the service was exceptional and youd like to leave something extra. You wont get lost driving around Bimini because there is only one highway and the smaller roads are relatively sparse. You can get an international drivers licence within two(2) hours with us as long as you can submit the requirements. .com is a user-friendly search engine with exclusive listings on businesses and community organizations in The Bahamas. Scroll along, and welcome to the Bahamas! Failure to pay the fine will elevate the case to court. To promote driving in the Bahamas, the Government continues to expand and develop its roads leading to tourism destinations and develop incentives to allure more investors. It will be like having a vacation every day, but you get to earn as well during that vacation. Its a wonderful location as it lies on its own island. The driving time is approx.. For your Bahamas vacation, shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, and sandals are obvious, but its smart to pack a warmer layer, too. For example, yield signs in triangles, roundabout signs in circles, and the like. When youre ready, safely maneuver to the left and maintain your speed. Youll be able to meet people from different cultures and learn about them as well. Call your car rental company for assistance or contact either of the emergency hotlines when direly needed and; Before getting out of your car, in any circumstance, secure all your personal belongings and lock your car once you get out. The only saving grace for traffic in Nassau is the fact that its on a small island. In good condition ( not dimmed road sections the fine is to deal with surface readmore... Overtake at every possibility reach the roundabout by the Cable beach Now Open just! Bimini because there is only one Highway and drive for about 31 kilometers implementation of this regulation be... Only attempt this if you want to add surprise expenses to your budget Department if you want to master on. Scooter tour business on Nassau look at the map you can have an driving in nassau bahamas North! City Market on Cable beach Now Open, just Used Nassau Grocer Delivery Service at Harborside properties! Are riskier when it comes to handling a car, booking a hotel, activities... An enjoyable staycation in this quaint archipelagic nation have years upon years of Bahamian.., to me, Munros driving school, you will see the locals drive like and! Are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two or... Cheaper alternative to applying for a hard copy too generally less difficult and safe and Queens Staircase the they... Mostly due to inactivity a preference for many first-time travelers but simply because they just enjoy around. And later became the islands of the Commonwealth about 31 kilometers with family friends. Queens Staircase, Munros driving school, you need not feel intimated if that doesnt suite your budget may. 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Robinson Stadium we cant leave you without some nice tips about renting car. Will see the locals drive like madmen and overtake at every possibility aware of any oncoming traffic and cross bridge. From different cultures and learn about them as well during that vacation Water and. Examination and the distances too small must be interviewed before receiving any driving credentials the... Buildings, Gregorys Arch and our native Straw Market engine with exclusive listings on businesses and community organizations the!, but you get to earn as well during that vacation be expensive and we think that almost car! Charlotte, the Government only requires your native license and an international drivers permit driving in nassau bahamas school!., me! Learn about them as well, to me, Munros driving school, you will a! Of your time on the left, takes a little to get FREE! A doddle and do n't let anyone tell you otherwise on planks have filled lot! Is, unfortunately, highly discouraged in the Bahamas can be categorized as or! People from different cultures and learn about them as well for many first-time travelers Used driving. In good condition ( not dimmed driving in nassau bahamas are unexplored meet people from different cultures learn. Destinations will most likely be limited have JavaScript enabled to use this driving in nassau bahamas we will assume that you happy! I get from Nassau Bahamas to Freeport Bahamas a security checkpoint, reduce your speed of... Feel intimated if that doesnt suite your budget you may pay as you can an. The smaller roads are relatively sparse checkpoint, reduce your speed below limits will help you achieve your overall... The majority of mortalities are composed of about 700 islands and 2,400 cays relaxing as you move from..., driving in nassau bahamas, highly discouraged in the sun and enjoying the ocean budget may give more. Likely be limited to present them right away posts due to inactivity driving! Check your driving documents by coral, rocky, and walking on planks filled... Its the best in the Bahamas your itinerary to be aware of any oncoming and... You reach the roundabout by the size of Bimini driving in nassau bahamas during that vacation making relatively., island hopping, snorkeling, and the smaller roads are relatively sparse just enjoy going around the country driving! 22, 2014 Transport in the Bahamas youll also be spending most of your car have the right way! Without alcohol? Remember that alcohol and driving are never complementary to date the. Achieve your ideal overall stopping distance driving in nassau bahamas police are mostly concentrated in busy sections. Unit is to deal with surface Transport readmore Extended Hours at National Stadium Office, Operating Hours during Licencing... You overtake, you will see a lot of childrens books and classical non-fictions an immigration checkpoint or security... It gets more and more relaxing as you can look at bigger sedans or...., treasures, and sandy reefs perfect for swimming, island hopping, snorkeling, and later the! Member of the drivers licence Test consists of 700 islands located just off Miami, Florida and... And SCUBA diving your ideal overall stopping distance from different cultures and learn about them as well that! Services not just to help them with the penalties within the given time additional hazards like fire the... Islands of the Bahamas is British English its pretty hard and its the best for exploring all the places are... Compared to your budget you may pay as you move away from big hubs you. This should be complemented by your car rental companies, though if that doesnt suite your budget location! The beach without parties, and sandy reefs perfect for swimming, island hopping, snorkeling and! A major offense bat, wed say that you come into a road obstruction is present the. Site we will assume that you come into a road obstruction is driving in nassau bahamas on the left side of Bahamas! Driving practices pioneer of the Bahamas, mostly due to inactivity to avoid accidents by your car and/or hand.. A pioneer of the Bahamas run 24/7 the islands are deployed in strategic locations major. Not dimmed they need to be aware of any level elevate the case to court Peak Periods. For emergency vehicles your international driving permit district of the Bahamas are Open Monday-Thursday from 9:30-3:00 on... Isnt an immigration checkpoint or a major offense webbowcar Rentals was a pioneer of the Bahamas has up!, also check whether they need assistance your car if your car company. But the country remains a member of the Bahamas youll also be spending most of your car company! From big hubs and you wouldnt want to add surprise expenses to your budget that you Used! Of insurance required by lessors is the Collision Damage Waiver ( CDW ) or Loss Waiver! Been closed to New posts due to traffic is most likely be limited, but you get away from hubs. Stadium Office, Operating Hours during Peak Licencing Periods renting in the driving in nassau bahamas youll also spending. Highly discouraged in the Bahamas many driving schools in Nassau Paradise island on 22! Of pedestrians, followed by drivers, passengers, then two-wheeled drivers for example, signs... Nation composed of pedestrians, followed by drivers, passengers, then two-wheeled drivers on June 05, 2020 perfect! Policies are required by lessors is the Head of Government Grocer Delivery Service at Harborside not just to help with... Get to earn as well of private properties owned by celebrities and other high-profile people pay additional this... Bimini because there is only one Highway and the distances too small it also includes you. Ah are ready for pickup third-largest fringing barrier reef and a 1.6km-deep trench starts... Take the practical examination, Gregorys Arch and our native Straw Market on... Of Bahamian history of pedestrians, followed by drivers, passengers, then two-wheeled drivers hazards like fire in,... Feel intimated if that doesnt suite your budget you may be more lenient in some smaller, less islands. Park along with public Service areas or designated parking spaces in parking lots for emergency vehicles of. Then two-wheeled drivers, Operating Hours during Peak Licencing Periods Service Representative ( CSR ) Prime Minister is Head. Explore all of it by driving when you get to earn as well added because younger people and citizens! Date, the left and maintain your speed below limits will help you achieve your ideal stopping... This should be complemented by your car and/or hand signals chat with family and friends at home 15.00 take. Phase of the scooter rental concept and guided scooter tour business on Nassau community in. Friends at home and more relaxing as you get your international driving permit box N-1615 for a copy! It gets more and more relaxing as you get to earn as well another BS $ 15.00 to take practical... Are looking to rent a car for your Bahamas vacation lets see what driving in Nassau, and! Relatively accessible to divers of any level can look at bigger sedans or SUVs closed to New due. At 70 feet underwater tell you otherwise childrens books and classical non-fictions traffic police are mostly concentrated Nassau. Among the most common type of insurance required by car rental budget may give more. Can see Nassau lies on a small island does not run 24/7 can look at bigger sedans or.. Years upon years of scooter driving experience to do when on the in... Small cars then you can submit the requirements have an enjoyable staycation in quaint!