Whether you’re visiting Jamaica for a tropical getaway or on business, driving gives you the flexibility and freedom to explore the island on your own terms.
You will see a diverse landscape full of cozy districts, urban cities, blue ocean coast lines, hot plains and rugged mountains.
However, if it’s your first time driving in Jamaica, there are a few things you should know to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
Here are essential tips for both tourists and business travelers.
Rent a Car in Jamaica
The first thing you will want to do is to rent a car in Jamaica.
Ensure you are eligible to rent a car and drive in Jamaica. The minimum driving age in Jamaica is 18, but most companies don’t rent to persons under 21.
Get a rental car that is reliable for you based on your travel needs. Check out our article on picking the best rental car for your trip .
Get Your Document Checklist
Never leave your hotel or Airbnb without the following documents:
- Driver’s Licence
- Vehicle Insurance Papers
- Vehicle Registration
- Car Fitness
- Passport
The vehicle papers will be given to you with your rental car. Never hurts to check to ensure you get them. And the passport is optional but helps. Especially if you are pulled over by the police for a random check.
Drive on the Left Side of the Road
One of the most important things to remember is that in Jamaica, cars drive on the left side of the road. This may take some getting used to, especially if you’re coming from a country where right-hand driving is the norm. Stay alert, especially at intersections and roundabouts, and take your time adjusting to this new driving pattern.
Be Aware of Road Conditions
Jamaica’s road conditions can vary greatly depending on where you’re driving. While the major highways and roads in cities like Kingston and Montego Bay are generally well-paved, some rural areas may have potholes or uneven surfaces. For tourists heading to attractions like the Blue Mountains or business travelers visiting less urbanized areas, it’s essential to drive cautiously and avoid speeding, especially at night.
Using Toll Roads
Jamaica’s most maintained roads are the toll roads. And they can take you to and from key checkpoints in your Journey. But they do come with a cost. Be sure in this case to travel with Jamaican dollars (JMD) as USD and bank cards are not accepted.
Watch for Pedestrians and Animals
In both urban and rural areas, it’s common to see pedestrians walking along the road, and in some places, animals like goats or dogs may wander onto the street. Whether you’re commuting between business meetings or heading out for sightseeing, always stay alert and be prepared to slow down for people or animals crossing the road.
Plan Your Route with Google Maps
But don’t depend on it fully. Some roads Google maps can lead you to tiny roads and one ways as you go further out of urban areas. So when that does happen, be sure to ask locals for help and directions.
Whether you’re navigating to a resort or heading to a client meeting though, having reliable navigation is key. While road signs are present in most areas, some smaller roads might not be well-marked. Using Google Maps will help you stay on track and ensure you don’t miss important turns. It’s a good idea to download offline maps if you’re going to areas with spotty mobile service. Try to use Google maps to map out where you are headed first so you aren’t overly focused on your phone while driving.
Practice Defensive Driving
Jamaican roads can be busy, and local driving habits may be more aggressive than what you’re used to. Both tourists and business travelers should practice defensive driving—stay aware of your surroundings, anticipate the actions of other drivers, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Be patient, especially in congested areas like Kingston or Montego Bay during rush hour.
Expect Traffic in Urban Areas
Jamaica’s cities, particularly Kingston and Montego Bay, can have heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. If you’re in Jamaica for business, allow extra time to get to meetings or the airport. For tourists, if you’re planning to explore the city, it’s worth considering travel times to avoid delays during excursions or day trips.
Know the Local Driving Customs
Jamaica has its own unique driving culture. You may notice drivers using their horns more frequently, either as a warning or to signal their presence when overtaking. While this may be different from what you’re accustomed to, it’s part of the local driving etiquette. Stay calm and adapt to the flow of traffic.
Follow the Laws
Here are some of the road laws you should know before heading out:
- Urban Speed Limit: 50kph
- Highway Speed Limit : 80kph
- Blood Alcohol content limit: 35MG
- Emergency Contact: 119
- Not allowed to use phone while driving
Conclusion
Whether you’re a tourist eager to explore Jamaica’s scenic beauty or a business traveler navigating the roads for meetings, driving in Jamaica for the first time can be an enjoyable experience if you’re prepared. By keeping these essential tips in mind—driving on the left, staying cautious of road conditions, and practicing defensive driving—you’ll be ready to make the most of your time on the island. With the right approach, you can enjoy the flexibility and convenience of having your own rental car in Jamaica.