The Districts of the Bahamas cover relatively small land areas. Fines for traffic violations can be high, and you wouldnt want to add surprise expenses to your budget. This means you can rely on public transport and taxis very easily. The Bahamas is a nation composed of about 700 islands located just off Miami, Florida, and northeast of Cuba. Do not be fooled by the size of Bimini. Brands that you know. You will have to wait for them to give way. Car horns and lights are to be used only to warn other road users. Affiliate links are displayed on the website. This means that you should give way, not be aggressive, not intimidate other drivers, not area race, and not harass other road users. In case your signaling systems do not function well, you will have to use clear hand signals if you change your direction. You also need to make sure that space behind you is clear of any obstruction, then signal that you are going to reverse drive even when there are no cars around. This probably is one of the most cringe moments among drivers. This is because of its relatively short distance from the U.S. and other Central American countries. This is a common case within Nassau, Bahamas where driving within heavy traffic makes it more difficult to reposition the car. If you damage your rented car, your insurance will cover your liabilities to that car. Park only in designated parking areas. Visitors Guide to Bugibba, Malta Everything you need to know! She teaches in a way thats easy to understand and remember. The max speed on most roads is 35mph, the fastest road on the island (that I can recall) reaches the dizzying heights of 45mph. This should be complemented by your car and/or hand signals. The Exumas is another tranquil district of the Bahamas and one of the most exclusive. Once documents have been verified, applicant will be called into the licence studio to have photo taken for the learners permit. You can rent a car on the island and check the different spots at your most preferred time. This island alone has more than 200 blue holes, a lot of which are unexplored. English is the native language in the Bahamas. Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas roadtraffic@bahamas.gov.bs Phone: (242) 325-3323 (242) 325-6511 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 You must be 17 years or older to apply for a learners permit. Renting a car in an archipelagic nation might seem like a hassle, but you have to consider other factors as well, like the quality and convenience of other transportation alternatives. When payment has been made thecashier will issue a receipt of payment. And Drunk drivers are criminal. Concierge Road Traffic Test, this service includes the use of a car. There are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two lanes or even fewer. Lets take a look at all the basic rules that you need to know before you start driving in Nassau. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Always be aware of whats behind you, next to you, and in front of you. You need to take your IDP with you wherever you go driving in the 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. The driving may be erratic, I grant that, but take your time (let's face it you don't need to rush anywhere in Nassau) and keep your distance and you will have no worries. (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? For your Bahamas vacation, shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, and sandals are obvious, but its smart to pack a warmer layer, too. WebWhen driving in the Bahamas, the government only requires your native license and an international drivers permit. You should have successfully completed the theoretical driving test examination to qualify to take the practical examination. WebDiamonds International stores in Nassau, Bahamas. Actually, no. It would be best if you observe the hand signals well if you ever come across one. Driving in the Bahamas entails driving on the left side of the road. Bahamians are friendly and accommodating people. 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. Likewise, traffic rules arent the only ones you see posted on physical signs, so be vigilant about recalling all the other laws. Note: A learners permit is only valid for six months. If you are on the left lane and there is a road obstruction ahead on the same lane, the right of way is given to traffic on the right lane. Better yet, call a taxi and dont drive yourself. You can get an IDP that is valid from one (1) to three (3) years. This is a cheaper alternative to applying for a hard copy too. 36. If you feel safe in smaller cars then an Economy or Compact class car will get you around the island just fine. When driving in the Bahamas, the government only requires your native license and an international drivers permit. Likewise, all documents printed in the non-English language should be translated with a certificate. Always wear your seatbelt, and as much as possible, rent a car that has a functional airbag. In addition, the destinations will most likely be limited. See All New Providence Island Conversations. The British Monarch is the Head of State, while the Prime Minister is the Head of Government. 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. If youre interested in exploring business opportunities in the Bahamas, you can start driving around Freeport, Bahamas. Fast forward 7-8 years later, the number of traffic mortalities continued to exist in that range, if not greater. Tour Duration: 2 hours View Map Visit Official Website The 365 cays and islands are divided into three (3) main groups: Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and the Exuma Cays. If you indeed committed a violation, make sure to comply with the penalties within the given time. Avoid the use of cell phones when on the road to avoid accidents. 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. WebDriving Around Nassau - Nassau Forum - Tripadvisor Caribbean Bahamas New Providence Island Nassau Nassau Travel Forum Browse all 11,253 Nassau topics This is especially important if youre traveling with kidsand we recommend planning some in-flight activities, toobut is helpful for you no matter who youre vacationing with! If youre a new driver, you can bring along a checklist to ensure that you didnt miss anything. Bye-Bye Beach Tower - Hello 'Somewhere Else'? Stops on your cruise depend on the length of the cruise and the trip you select, so definitely look into the finer details before booking. Now weve covered the basic question of renting a car lets get into driving in Nassau. WebHow do I get from Nassau Bahamas to Freeport Bahamas? The 365 cays and islands are mostly posh, serving only some of the most privileged. Younger people are presumed to be inexperienced, while senior citizens are presumed to have reduced physical reflexes already. Driving with Ms.Odigie has been a great experience that I have gone through. But just in case they ask for the documents, youll be able to present them right away. Avoid traffic with optimized routes. When you think of the Bahamas, you think about boats, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and watersports. The most highly bought brand is the Honda. However, you will have to pay another BS$15.00 to take the practical examination. Then turn left onto the national park. This ranges from 12,500BSD 57,000BSD. Be alert for any possible additional hazards like fire. We accept all major forms of payments. Police officers or traffic enforcers are sometimes designated in junctions where there are no traffic lights. Concentrating will also help you drive defensively. Here are some of our top travel tips for preparing for your Bahamas vacation, no matter when you choose to travel next. If you come across a checkpoint, reduce your speed and prepare your driving documents. You can book a non-stop flight to The Bahamas from many major cities in the United States and Canada. For more tips on traveling, driving, and getting an IDP in the Bahamas, contact the International Drivers Association. Present your Transport Management Number (TMN) received during registration to Customer Service Representative (CSR). 2023 Cheap Flights, Hotels, Rentals & Travel Guides | TopFlightsNow. You wont have to apply for this since the responsibility is given to the car owner (meaning the car rental company). Now some people advocate for scooter rentals while you are in the Bahamas. Everyone must wear a seatbelt at all times. If other vehicles have started to line up ahead of you, join them at the back. All Images Add Image. Applicants must apply in person and must provide proof that they have successfully passed the theory portion of the driving test. Banks in The Bahamas are open Monday-Thursday from 9:30-3:00 and on Fridays 9:30-5:00. This receipt is to be returned to the clerk who will process your documents for issuance of a learners permit. I had been with her for about a month and a half and Id say by that first month I was able to pass basic driving maneuvers. Since it is a popular tourism destination, premium cars and brands can also be found around. But the country is much more than pink sand beaches and wide intertidal zones. Pay extra attention in the first hour or so after youve got your rental. Save big on 3-year valid permit up to 60% off plus FREE worldwide shipping! As much as possible, bring all of them when you go out. WebHow far is it to drive from Texas (TX) to Nassau, Bahamas? Some CDWs do not cover damages on windscreens, headlights, tire punctures, and roadside assistance fees. However, if you hail from other countries outside the U.S.A and U.K., you will need to get an IDP to drive in the Bahamas. For every 100,000 individuals, about nine (9) people die from road accidents. Try making a saved album on Instagram of all of the places youd like to see and dishes youd like to try or a shared document with your travel buddies so that everyone can participate. Ltd. All rights reserved. 2023 Toptravel Pte. Some foreigners offer driving services not just to help them with the expenses but simply because they just enjoy going around the country. After that, you should experience driving in the country, because not only will it save you money, youll also be able to go on a road trip on your own terms. Lastly, if you dont want to miss out on any other amazing destinations in Bimini (or the country in general), you can purchase different driving handbooks of the Bahamas from multiple publishers around the world! For preparing for your Bahamas vacation, no matter when you choose to travel next all of when... With Ms.Odigie has been made thecashier will issue a receipt of payment some roads... Are some of our top travel tips for preparing for your Bahamas vacation no! 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