Need help? Call: +44 1362 852288 | Open tomorrow from 10am UK time

ClubZest

Sign up for free today and earn points towards benefits and exclusive discounts.

Driving in Jamaica.

Loading Loading icon for Zest Car Rental
Loading Loading icon for Zest Car Rental

Edit pickup date

Edit return date

A fresh, honest approach to car rental

Beaches galore.

Driving is a great way to get around Jamaica. Hiring a car will give you the freedom to explore and see and do what you want. It will also allow you to tailor your trip around your needs to make the most of your visit.

Jamaica has a relaxed driving culture. The road surface quality can vary so extra care should be taken when driving because this can make driving along some of the roads quite hazardous. You should always adhere to the speed limits because of the unpredictable nature of the road conditions, particularly in rural areas.

There are some areas and routes of the island which are best avoided so always get advice about these areas from the car hire company before hitting the road.

Why not read our Jamaican travel guide? You may also like to view information about destinations in Jamaica.

Tips for driving in Jamaica

Driving licence

A UK paper driving licence is only valid when accompanied by photographic proof of identity, e.g. passport.

Which side of the road do they drive on?

Drive on the left, overtake on the right.

Seat belts

If fitted, seat belts must be worn at all times by all occupants of the vehicle.

Driving with children

Children should sit in the back of the vehicle and children under 4 should use a child restraint system suitable for their size.

Blood alcohol limit

The blood alcohol limit in Jamaica is 35mg alcohol per 100ml blood.

Can I use a mobile?

It’s illegal to use a mobile unless you have a hands-free kit. Fines can be as high as €730.

Parking

It can be tricky to find parking spaces in built up areas. If you choose to park on the road you do so at your own risk as there is a chance you’ll be blocked in.

Car crime is not uncommon in Jamaica and as such, you should not leave valuables on display.

What should I do if I breakdown?

If you breakdown, call the supplier who will be able to advise you further. It is recommended you contact ourselves at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

What should I do if I have an accident?

If you’re in an accident, you MUST notify the Police and the car rental supplierand get an accident report for insurance purposes. Failure to do so may result in you footing the whole bill. It is recommended that you contact ourselves at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

Toll roads

Highway 2000 (H-2K) is a project aimed at creating a new infrastructure of toll motorways on Jamaica. It will ultimately connect Kingston with Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

 

Book now

Travel tips and blogs

Loading Loading icon for Zest Car Rental
Loading Loading icon for Zest Car Rental
See more

Articles about Jamaica

Places to hire in Jamaica

Average customer rating for car hire in Jamaica

(3.57 out of 5.00) based on 7 responses to our customer survey.

Speed limits

  • Motorways - 110 kph / 68 mph
  • Open roads - 80 kph / 50 mph
  • Built up areas - 50 kph / 31 mph

Phone numbers

  • Police - 112/911
  • Fire - 112/911
  • Ambulance - 112/911

Fuel

Most petrol stations can be found in the main towns and cities.

Jamaica travel guide
Jamaica overview