International Driving Permit for Virgin Islands (British)
The British Virgin Islands drive on the left-hand side of the road, yet most vehicles are left-hand-drive American imports, an unusual combination that takes getting used to. Roads through the hilly terrain of Tortola and the other islands are steep and winding, so a low gear and slow pace are essential.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Virgin Islands (British)?
Visitors driving in the British Virgin Islands generally need a temporary local driving permit, which is easily obtained on arrival with your valid licence or IDP.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Left
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Americas
- IDP
- Required
Local languages: English
Driving in Virgin Islands (British): key facts
- Visitors must purchase a temporary BVI driving permit, typically arranged through car rental companies on presentation of a valid licence.
- Despite driving on the left, most cars are left-hand drive, so overtaking and judging the road edge require extra care.
- Roads are narrow, hilly and often steep, with sharp blind corners common across Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
How to get your IDP for Virgin Islands (British)
Getting your International Driving Permit for Virgin Islands (British) 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 Virgin Islands (British).
Frequently asked questions about driving in Virgin Islands (British)
Do I need an IDP to drive in the British Virgin Islands?
You primarily need a temporary local BVI permit, which rental firms issue on the spot; an IDP is helpful as supporting identification, especially for non-English licences.
Can I rent a car in the British Virgin Islands with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can rent with a valid foreign licence, and the rental company will arrange the required temporary BVI driving permit for you.
What side of the road do the British Virgin Islands drive on?
The British Virgin Islands drive on the left-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in the British Virgin Islands?
The minimum driving age is 18, though rental companies commonly require drivers to be 21 or 25 and may add a young-driver surcharge.
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International Driving Permit for Virgin Islands (British)
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