Renting a Car in Trinidad and Tobago

Although driving in a foreign country can often be an adventurous prospect, cars remain a good option for travelers who will be doing extensive touring of Trinidad or Tobago. Drivers in foreign countries should always drive defensively while on the road, however.

Rather than pay expensive taxi fares to travel large distances on the islands, many vacationers will choose to rent a car for their touring of either Trinidad or Tobago. Sedans, jeeps, other four-wheel-drive vehicles, and even eight-passenger minivans can be rented from the various agencies on the island. Hertz and Thrifty are the only two international companies with offices on the island. Rates can start as low as $35(USD) and go up to $70(USD) for more expensive vehicles. Some of the large passenger vans will exceed $100(USD).

Drivers who wish to rent a car in Trinidad or Tobago will need an international driver's permit or a valid license issued in The Bahamas, Canada, England, France, Germany, or the United States. These licenses are valid for 90 days while staying on the islands. Drivers are generally required to be 25 years old and have had at least two years of driving experience. A major credit card is also required. Gas is not included in the price, and travelers are generally given unlimited mileage. Collision damage insurance is highly recommended, and travelers can usually secure this type of insurance for $10(USD) to $20(USD) per day. Varying daily rates will reduce your liability to $500(USD) or to no liability. Be sure to review all policies, rates, and insurance agreements with the local car rental firms.

Requirements and restrictions can vary. If you are concerned about minimum and maximum age restrictions, insurance requirements and the like, consider contacting each firm directly, before making a final decision.

Drivers in Trinidad and Tobago, a former British colony, stay to the left-hand side of the road. Travelers from North America and Europe will need to drive cautiously to adjust to this change. Drivers and passengers in the front seat are required by law to wear seatbelts. Some of the usual hazards that plague driving conditions in the Caribbean exist, including roads that are not well maintained and animal and pedestrian traffic. Nighttime driving is not recommended because of road conditions and intoxicated drivers. Local drivers may use hand signals that are unfamiliar to international drivers to indicate turns or stops. Visiting drivers should drive defensively and cautiously to avoid getting into trouble in their rental car on either island.

Rental agencies in Trinidad:

Rental agencies in Tobago:

As long as international drivers exercise caution and drive defensively, a rental car can be a great way to tour Trinidad or Tobago.