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Driving in Saint Martin.

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A fresh, honest approach to car rental

An island of two halves.

This fabulous Caribbean island boasts both French and Dutch influences and gorgeous beaches, lush and vibrant rainforests as well as mountains to be explored. Driving is certainly the best way to get around and see the things you want.

Some of the roads in Saint Martin can be narrow and windy and therefore it is advisable to drive with caution, but the panoramas are certainly worth it. 

Tips for driving in Saint Martin

Which side of the road do they drive on?

Drive on the right, overtake on the left.

Seat belts

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

Driving with children

Children under 12 must not travel in the front seat of the vehicle whilst children under 4 are required to use a child restraint system suitable for their size and weight.

Blood alcohol limit

The blood alcohol limit is 50mg 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.

Road conditions

Be wary of cars stopping suddenly in front of you to allow for other merging cars.

Watch out for livestock which may enter the road in remote parts of the island. According to traffic law, cows have the right-of-way on the island.

The roads can be extremely slippery when wet so take extra care in wet weather.

Parking and fuel

Be careful when parking around Philipsburg and the airport as local towing companies are enthusiastic and charges for the release of the vehicle can be high.

The price at fuel stations will be displayed in different currencies depending on which side of the island you are on; either Antillean Guilder on the Dutch side or Euros on the French side.

Horns and headlights

It is customary for drivers to use their horns to greet each other.

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 provider and 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.

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Articles about Saint Martin

Places to hire in Saint Martin

Average customer rating for car hire in Saint Martin

(4.5 out of 5.00) based on 6 responses to our customer survey.

Speed limits

  • Open roads - 100 kph / 62 mph
  • Built up areas - 50 kph / 31 mph

Phone numbers

  • Police - 911/542/2222
  • Fire - 919
  • Ambulance - 912/542/2111

Useful phrases

  • Danger - Danger/gevaar
  • Diesel - Diesel
  • Exit - Sortie/afrit
  • Filling station - Station-service/benzinepomp
  • Petrol - Essence/benzine
  • Prohibited - Interdit/verboden
  • Right of way - Droit de passage/recht van overpad
  • Roadworks - Travaux/wegwerkzaamheden
  • Slow - Lent/vasten

Fuel

Credit cards are not accepted at fuel stations. ATMs are not present at every fuel station so make sure you have cash.

Saint Martin travel guide
Saint Martin overview