International Driving Permit for Bahamas
The Bahamas drives on the left, a legacy of its British colonial history, even though most cars on the islands are left-hand-drive imports from North America. Tourists with a valid licence from their home country can generally drive for short visits, and the relaxed island pace means roads outside Nassau and Freeport are quiet and scenic.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Bahamas?
Visitors can usually drive in the Bahamas on a valid foreign licence for short stays, but an International Driving Permit is a helpful backup and may be requested by some rental agencies.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Left
- Minimum driving age
- 17 years
- Region
- Americas
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: English
Driving in Bahamas: key facts
- Driving is on the left, but the majority of vehicles are left-hand-drive, so take extra care at junctions and roundabouts.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for front-seat occupants and speed limits are low, typically around 25 mph in towns and 45 mph on open roads.
- Many islands rely on golf carts, scooters and small ferries, so a car is mainly needed on larger islands like New Providence and Grand Bahama.
How to get your IDP for Bahamas
Getting your International Driving Permit for Bahamas takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Bahamas.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Bahamas
Do I need an IDP to drive in the Bahamas?
An IDP is not strictly required for short visits if you hold a valid licence in English, but it provides a recognised translation and can smooth the rental process.
Can I rent a car in the Bahamas with a foreign licence?
Yes, most rental companies accept a valid foreign driving licence, and carrying an IDP alongside it removes any doubt at the counter.
What side of the road does the Bahamas drive on?
The Bahamas drives on the left, so remember to keep left and give way correctly at roundabouts and junctions.
What is the minimum age to drive in the Bahamas?
The minimum driving age is 17, though most rental firms set their own higher minimum, often 21 or 25, and may add a young-driver surcharge.
Other countries in Americas
International Driving Permit for Bahamas
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