The search above is provided by DiscoverCars.com, World's Best Car Rental Booking Website of 2022.
If you want to be sure to get the best possible deal, we recommend checking also QEEQ.COM, one of the fastest-growing online car rental platforms worldwide, listing over 7 million rental cars in around 200 countries.
Car Rental in Trinidad And Tobago
Car Rental in Trinidad and Tobago
When visiting Trinidad and Tobago, renting a car can be a convenient and flexible way to explore the islands. However, it’s important to understand the local driving laws and requirements before hitting the road.
Driving Laws and Requirements
In Trinidad and Tobago, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. The legal drinking limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath, and it’s strictly enforced. Additionally, drivers must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license from their home country or an International Driving Permit.
Choosing a Rental Car
When renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s important to choose a reputable rental company that offers well-maintained vehicles and comprehensive insurance coverage. Consider the size of the car based on the number of passengers and luggage you’ll have, and be sure to inquire about any additional fees or restrictions.
Driving Tips
While driving in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Road conditions can vary, so drive cautiously and be mindful of pedestrians and wildlife. It’s also advisable to have a good map or GPS to navigate the island’s roads.
By understanding the local driving laws and requirements, choosing the right rental car, and staying alert on the road, renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago can be a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Rental Requirements
Age Limits
To rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago, the minimum age is typically 25 years old, and the maximum age is around 70 years old. Some car rental companies may have different age restrictions, so it’s best to check with them before making a reservation.
Driving License Requirements
To rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in English, it’s recommended to also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid any language barriers. Additionally, some car rental companies may require you to have held your driver’s license for a minimum period, usually one to two years.
Documentation
When renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago, you will need to provide certain documents, including a valid passport, a credit card for the security deposit, and your driver’s license or IDP. It’s important to have these documents ready when picking up your rental car to avoid any delays or issues.
Insurance Information
When renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s important to understand the insurance options available to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
Basic Insurance
The basic insurance typically included in car rental packages in Trinidad and Tobago may consist of Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle in the event of a collision, while Theft Protection provides coverage in case the car is stolen.
Additional Insurance
In addition to the basic insurance, travelers have the option to purchase additional coverage such as Personal Accident Insurance and Supplemental Liability Insurance. Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and accidental death benefits for the driver and passengers, while Supplemental Liability Insurance offers increased protection in the event of third-party claims.
Insurance Tips
Before renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s advisable for travelers to review their existing travel insurance policies to determine if they already have coverage for rental vehicles. Additionally, it’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage provided by the car rental company to fully understand the extent of the protection offered. Taking these steps can help ensure that travelers have the appropriate insurance coverage for their rental car experience in Trinidad and Tobago.
Local Driving Laws and Regulations in Trinidad and Tobago
General Traffic Rules
Driving Side: Driving is on the left side of the road in Trinidad and Tobago.
Speed Limits: The speed limit is typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on highways.
Other Useful Info: Be aware of speed bumps in residential areas and school zones.
Overtaking and Lane Usage
Overtaking Rules: Overtaking should be done on the right-hand side of the road when it is safe and legal to do so.
Lane Discipline: Keep left unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
Other Useful Info: Watch out for slow-moving vehicles and cyclists on rural roads.
Seat Belt and Child Safety
Seat Belt Laws: Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants in the vehicle.
Child Safety: Children under 5 years old must be in a child car seat, and children under 3 years old must be in a rear-facing car seat.
Other Useful Info: It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers are wearing seat belts.
Use of Mobile Phones
Mobile Phone Restrictions: The use of handheld mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
Other Useful Info: Hands-free devices are allowed for making calls while driving.
Alcohol and Driving
Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath.
Zero Tolerance Policies: There are no specific zero-tolerance policies for certain drivers.
Other Useful Info: Random breath tests are conducted by law enforcement.
Tolls and Charges
Toll Roads: There are no toll roads in Trinidad and Tobago.
Congestion Charges: There are no congestion charges in urban areas.
Other Useful Info: Parking fees may apply in certain areas.
Roundabouts and Intersections
Navigating Roundabouts: Give way to vehicles on your right when entering a roundabout.
Intersection Rules: Traffic signals and road signs determine right of way at intersections.
Other Useful Info: Watch out for pedestrians at intersections.
Headlight and Windshield Wiper Laws
Headlight Usage: Use headlights at night and during rain for visibility.
Windshield Wiper Rule: There is no specific requirement to turn on headlights when using wipers.
Other Useful Info: Keep headlights on low beam in built-up areas.
Emergency Vehicles
Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles: Pull over to the side of the road and stop for emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens.
Other Useful Info: Do not block intersections to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
Driving Tips for Trinidad and Tobago
Road Conditions
In Trinidad and Tobago, the road conditions can vary from well-maintained highways to narrow and winding roads in rural areas. It’s important to be aware of potholes, especially during the rainy season, and to drive cautiously.
Urban vs. Rural Driving
In urban areas like Port of Spain, drivers tend to be more aggressive and traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. In rural areas, road quality may be poorer and there may be fewer streetlights, so it’s important to drive with caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Using GPS can be helpful, but it’s also a good idea to have a physical map as a backup, especially in more remote areas where GPS signals may be weak. Pay attention to road signs, as they may be different from what you’re used to.
Other Useful Tips
– Drive on the left side of the road.
– Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
– Be aware of pedestrians and animals on the roads, especially in rural areas.
– Avoid driving at night, if possible, as some roads may not be well-lit.
Renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago can give you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace, but it’s important to be aware of the unique driving conditions and to drive safely.
Roadside Assistance and Emergency Procedures
When renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the roadside assistance and emergency procedures in case of any unforeseen situations.
Breakdown Procedures
In the event of a breakdown, the first step is to safely pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. If possible, try to move the vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Contact the rental company immediately to inform them of the situation and follow their instructions.
Emergency Services
It’s essential to have the contact numbers for emergency services readily available. In Trinidad and Tobago, the emergency contact number for police is 999, and for ambulance services, it’s 990. Additionally, rental companies often provide a dedicated hotline for roadside assistance, so make sure to have that number on hand as well.
Rental Company Policies
Before renting a car, it’s crucial to review the support offered by the rental company in case of emergencies. Many rental companies provide 24/7 assistance and towing services in the event of a breakdown. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their policies and procedures to ensure a smooth experience in case of any roadside issues.
Where can you Rent a Car in Trinidad And Tobago?
You can browse all the city locations below, sorted alphabetically. Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) to quickly find the one you want to explore.