Do not be fooled by the size of Bimini. Once documents have been verified, applicant will be called into the licence studio to have photo taken for the learners permit. While it might be better on the big island its not recommended in Nassau. Road and traffic violations in the Bahamas can be categorized as minor or a major offense. If you are visiting the big island then you will be better off renting a car. These are usually arrows or dividers that guide vehicles which lane to line up on depending on the direction they need to turn. 36. Situated roughly 60km west of Nassau, you can book a flight to the island or ride a ferry. WebDrivers Licence renewals may be requested online at a cost of $20.00 for one year or $60 for three years. Must have successfully pass the theory portion of the driving test. Similar to getting a driving job, you have to secure a valid work permit first before officially starting your work as a guide. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas. All these so you can have an enjoyable staycation in this quaint archipelagic nation. For example, if you are a citizen of Canada, you may stay in the Bahamas for up to eight (8) months without a visa. Eastern Entrance Section 4 Rm 81E The country has a free-trade zone wherein businesses are not required to pay taxes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_6" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We understand that learning to drive isnt cheap, hence we have a variety of packages that would allow our clients to choose from and simultaneously save. Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on October 22, 2014. The 365 cays and islands are mostly posh, serving only some of the most privileged. Finally, take the exit to the right. WebOfficial MapQuest - Maps, Driving Directions, Live Traffic Traffic Police are mostly concentrated in busy road sections. We accept all major forms of payments. You have an advantage over North Americans - you are used to driving on the LEFT. Pay extra attention in the first hour or so after youve got your rental. Car horns and lights are to be used only to warn other road users. Also, you need not feel intimated if that doesnt suite your budget you may pay as you go. Likewise, public transport in the Bahamas does not run 24/7. The driving distance from Texas (TX) to Nassau, Bahamas is: Travelmath helps you find driving distances based on actual Present your Transport Management Number (TMN) received during registration to Customer Service Representative (CSR). If you dont have your native driving license yet because your country has a higher minimum driving age, it is recommended that you hire a driver instead because you cannot apply for a local driving license in the Bahamas without a native driving license and an IDP. It holds some of the most intriguing natural wonders in the world. From the airport, exit towards the Grand Bahama Highway and drive for about 31 kilometers. For your Bahamas vacation, shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, and sandals are obvious, but its smart to pack a warmer layer, too. We offer a large fleet of well maintained scooters, automatic jeeps/buggies, and automatic ATVs; and we can accommodate any rental or tour experience. Its important not to slow down once youve overtaken (its risky for the vehicle behind you). Likewise, you can save on costs because you wont really need to rent cars with big wheels and cars used for rugged terrain (although SUVs do provide a different level of comfort). You can also rent a plane from certified local and international carriers. If you have vehicles to your side, make sure to keep your distance as well. If you ask for driving directions, Bahamas locals can converse clearly with anyone. The fee of BS$15.00 covers the cost of the theory examination and the practical examination. In addition, the destinations will most likely be limited. Clearly label and pack any prescription medication you may need during your stay. Visitors Guide to Bugibba, Malta Everything you need to know! I'm sure there are those that do rent a car and are perfectly happy doing so, but for me it's easier to take the jitneys, ferry and taxi. It also includes how you operate your car yourself, even without the presence of other road users. Part of maintaining your vehicle in a safe place is following the traffic rules. Before traveling to any destination, it is important to know a bit about the place, like where it is exactly, what the languages are, why it is a recommended destination, and more. All 30 boats leave from Nassau, and the round-trip takes a full day. If it isnt an immigration checkpoint or a security checkpoint, the police will less likely check your driving documents. However, numbers and frequency decrease as you move away from the city. There is minimal to no traffic at all, and the roads are in decent condition. This makes the experience less dangerous and less stressful overall. If you run into an accident with other road users, also check whether they need assistance. When you want to travel to Great Abaco, you can rent a car from: Address: S.C. Bootle Highway, Marsh Harbour. hello@internationaldriversassociation.com, Toptravel PTE. If your exit is on the right, stay on the right lane and slowly signal to the left when you are about to approach your exit. If you are on a road where there is less to no traffic, you will need to maintain your focus on driving in case there are road bumps and blocks. Here are some items that you can inspect: Apart from your car, double-check all supporting documents, including: Is driving in the Bahamas okay? This means that youll have to put away your cellphone or any devices that can distract you. Compared to driving in the UK, it is a walk in the park. Here are 10 things you need to know before joining us in Nassau Paradise Island: Passport processing can take some time, so if you dont have a passport or its expired, make sure you give yourself enough time to obtain one before your departure date. Book lesson and meet your personal driving instructor. If you stay in the Bahamas for a long time (more than 90 days), you can consider getting a driving job. The island groups are connected by one (1) main highway, the Queens Highway. Please note that the forms are PDF documents so you need to have Adobe Reader installed on your machine. Brands that you know. Driving with Ms.Odigie has been a great experience that I have gone through. Avoid the use of cell phones when on the road to avoid accidents. Munroes driving school goes above and beyond to ensure the success of its students and that the needs of the students are met. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Likewise, traffic rules arent the only ones you see posted on physical signs, so be vigilant about recalling all the other laws. In addition, permit holders when driving any vehicle, must carry the prescribed L plates at the front and back of the vehicle. The IDP is highly beneficial for non-English speakers as well. Do remember that all documents issued from a foreign country should be validated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before they are submitted to the Department of Immigration. Do something different during your time in the Bahamas, whether on vacation or visiting as a cruise ship passenger. I started from scratch. You are purchasing a translation document which is not a replacement for a Driving License. No rearview mirror and windshield wipers -$75, Driving without giving proper signals - $100, Driving in the wrong direction in a one-way, Reverse driving for unreasonable distance - $80, Turning improperly at an intersection - $80, Parking on the sidewalk, footpaths, etc. In all honesty, you wont miss out on much if you skip renting a car. WebTo better serve you here at the Road Traffic Department, we have assembled many of the application forms required to access our services. With this, do not be confused and just focus on the symbol or the words. In case your signaling systems do not function well, you will have to use clear hand signals if you change your direction. They were believed to have mainly come from what is now called Cuba. You can get an international drivers licence within two(2) hours with us as long as you can submit the requirements. Nassau is on the north coast of New Providence, between Eleuthera and Andros Islands. The 23km2 island features a mix of recreational areas, including exotic restaurants, white sand beaches, a lighthouse, nature trips, and shipwrecks. Be alert for any possible additional hazards like fire. Box N-1615 If not, place them or any bag under the seats or away from sight. Even when there isnt a possibility. Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road in The Bahamas, which can be a tricky adjustment for North American drivers. WebDriving School with over 20 years experience, lessons available 6 days a week Nassau, Nassau / Paradise Island, Bahamas. There are some bigger roads and even some multi-lane roads but usually, its just two lanes or even fewer. If your exit is on the left, then keep to the left-hand side of the road. Eastern Entrance Section 4 Due to its location, the weather in the Bahamas is characterized by two (2) seasons: the dry (winter) and the wet (hurricane season). Always wear your seatbelt, and as much as possible, rent a car that has a functional airbag. : (242)604-5402 |(242)604-5404 | (242)604-5409, The Transport Policy and Planning Unit was formed by the Government of The Bahamas as an initiative to develop its policy and planning capabilities in the Transport Sector. Then turn left onto the national park. The surcharge will depend on the company. Other preferred cars are the Toyotas, Nissans, and Kias. If you need to get an IDP, even though your native license will expire soon, you can apply for a digital copy alone with us. Bimini is the nearest gateway to the Bahamas from Florida. CSRwill confirm applicants identity and successful completion of the theoretical examination. Avoid A licensed driver must accompany the applicant to the office on the day of the test and must have a valid Drivers Licence for a period not less than one year in their possession for verification. If you are between 21-24 or 70 years old and above, some car rentals may allow you to rent, but youll have to pay a surcharge. Fast forward 7-8 years later, the number of traffic mortalities continued to exist in that range, if not greater. If you drive on rural roads, you can amp up your speed between 30-45mph. There are so many options available to you when researching your next vacation. For more information, you may contact the Road Traffic Department at the address below: Examination Unit: Roads in built-up areas, especially in the capital, are well-paved. Scroll along, and welcome to the Bahamas! Driving around the main areas of Nassau Bahamas, this video is meant to help give you a taste of what Nassau looks like by car. 35. Some companies offer lower rates if you rent a car on a long-term basis. Obeying traffic regulations is mandatory while operating your car on the road. The answer is no. Firstly, I would not advocate renting a scooter because of the state of many of the roads: I would not advocate renting a car unless it is from a 'proper' rental co eg Hertz, Avis etc, because of the lack of regulation. Box N-1615 Nassau, The Bahamas Email: If you dont speak English well, though, make sure to bring along with you a Bahamas map to assist you. The maximum number of days that a tourist can stay in the Bahamas without a visa depends upon which country you are a citizen of and which country you are a resident of. With about 700 islands, its quite difficult to narrow down the best places to visit. If youre not sure yet whether youd want to drive in the Bahamas and get an IDP, you can decide to get one once youre there. Getting here is nearly as easy and familiar as simply visiting another state or province, but our culture and climate make it exotic and exciting. Along with teaching me how to drive supurbly I might add, she gave life long skills as well as astoundly represented our God and all hes done for us. Bahamas is a unique beautiful country. Actually, no. There is asphalt everywhere and there is a road that goes on the circumference of the island. Driving is a mess. The 365 cays and islands are divided into three (3) main groups: Great Exuma, Little Exuma, and the Exuma Cays. When you want to stay on the capital island of New Providence, you can rent a car from: Address: Lynden Pindling International Airport, Contact Number: (242) 377-9000 / (242) 377-7405, Address: Nassau, Freeport, Paradise Island, Website: https://shift-enterprises-rent-a-car.business.site/. Our Instructor is Road Traffic Department approved or Licensed, talented, gifted, mentally and physically fit and have a long driving instruction history. WebNassau isn't that darn big to worry about getting around. Nassau: Guided ATV City and Beach Tour. Cable Beach has been a forerunner in the Bahamian Tourism Industry since the 1940s. There are different types of roundabouts, depending on the number of lanes on the main roundabout and the side or approaching roads. Latest Pictures / Photos. To enhance the countrys traffic monitoring system, CCTVs and checkpoints are deployed in strategic locations around major islands. Daily, car rentals in the Bahamas mostly average at around $76. more, New Providence Island Destination Experts. These were among the most empowering years of Bahamian history. Almost all locals on every island speak the official language. After photo has been taken, applicant will be issued the learners permit and can apply for the practical exam portion of the driving test. But just in case they ask for the documents, youll be able to present them right away. Bahamians are friendly and accommodating people. Road and street density is high within the city center. Call your car rental company for assistance or contact either of the emergency hotlines when direly needed and; Before getting out of your car, in any circumstance, secure all your personal belongings and lock your car once you get out. Explore all of it by driving when you get your International Driving Permit. Free and always accurate driving directions, Google Maps, traffic information for the Bahamas (BS).Explore satellite imagery of Nassau, the capital city of WebDriving Around Nassau - Nassau Forum - Tripadvisor Caribbean Bahamas New Providence Island Nassau Nassau Travel Forum Browse all 11,253 Nassau topics For every 100,000 individuals, about nine (9) people die from road accidents. Maintaining your speed below limits will help you achieve your ideal overall stopping distance. Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on June 05, 2020. Within Nassau, Bahamas, driving can be challenging and exhilarating at the same time. Windscreens and other glass parts are clean and clear, Your valid drivers license must match the class of vehicle you are driving, Driving while under the influence of alcohol and other toxic psychoactive substances, Letter of Request to the Direction of Immigration, Duly accomplished First Schedule Application Form 1, Original Medical Certificate (taken within 30 days before application), Original Police Certificate (taken within the last six months), Labour Certificate with Notification of Vacancy, Two (2) written references from previous employers, Copy of employers business license, Certificate of Incumbency, or Certificate of Incorporation, Copy of employers National Insurance Card, Nurses, teachers, and police officers who have been employed in government service in the country for at least ten years with a valid work permit Spouse of a Bahamian citizen, Medical professionals and religion ministers who have been employed in the country for at least 20 years, Investors or businessmen who are legitimate owners of a residential house in the country, Children born outside the country to at least one (1) Bahamian parent, A valid passport thats not expiring within six months. It gets more and more relaxing as you get away from big hubs and you will even be able to enjoy the scenery. Nassau is usually a one-day stop for cruises and some of the other stops in The Bahamas can include Freeport, Coco Cay, Half Moon Cay, and Grand Turk. If you dont feel safe in such small cars then you can look at bigger sedans or SUVs. And whats the beach without parties, and parties without alcohol?Remember that alcohol and driving are never complementary. Banks in The Bahamas are open Monday-Thursday from 9:30-3:00 and on Fridays 9:30-5:00. Abide By 100% of the full standards of Road Traffics Driving Regulations. Driving may seem a little different partly because its on the left, takes a little to get adjusted to. Each to their own though and whatever makes you happy on your vacation. Then take the exit towards Baha Mar Boulevard and turn left towards West Bay Street. Next to English, the second most widely spoken dialect is the Creole. Head and tail lights are in good condition (not dimmed? Roads in Nassau are in pretty good condition. Choose to either start in the morning or afternoon. You will have to wait for them to give way. The clerk will verifyall documents, if requirements are met, applicant will bepresented with a billfor payment to the cashier. Try to keep to the left at all times unless youre turning or overtaking. Suppose youre up for a more festive beach vibe, head on over to Cable Beach. Andros is a wonderland for nature-adventure seekers. If you feel safe in smaller cars then an Economy or Compact class car will get you around the island just fine. This probably is one of the most cringe moments among drivers. We have easy forms of payment. 2023 Toptravel Pte. For more tips on traveling, driving, and getting an IDP in the Bahamas, contact the International Drivers Association. Affiliate links are displayed on the website. This road is good quality and its the best for exploring all the places. But the country is much more than pink sand beaches and wide intertidal zones. Public service drivers licence. When you think of the Bahamas, you think about boats, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and watersports. You must be a holder of a driver licence of the corresponding class. This means you can rely on public transport and taxis very easily. This is apart from your fuel, oil, and water. Renting in the Bahamas will be expensive and we think that almost any car class will suffice. Police officers or traffic enforcers are sometimes designated in junctions where there are no traffic lights. However, if you hail from other countries outside the U.S.A and U.K., you will need to get an IDP to drive in the Bahamas. Consider cabs or pre-paid transfersrather than renting cars or scooters to avoid unfamiliar driving practices. Surely, the locals carry this road etiquette too. You can bring your favorite shows and movies on the road using apps like Netflix (download some episodes in advance!). Lets take a look at all the basic rules that you need to know before you start driving in Nassau. WebCalculate the driving distance and directions and get straight air line flying distance times between Nassau New Providence Bahamas Seneca Rocks West Virginia United States in mi or km with Distantias. When it comes to Nassau the answer is usually no. Stops on your cruise depend on the length of the cruise and the trip you select, so definitely look into the finer details before booking. WebRe: Driving Safety in Nassau. The implementation of this regulation may be more lenient in some smaller, less crowded islands. Road etiquette isnt just limited to how you deal with another road user. Although I was fluent with driving, she school taught me a substantial amount of lesson that bettered me as a driver on the roads of Nassau. Restaurant and bar bills in The Bahamas may automatically add a15% gratuity so you dont need to leave a tip, unless the service was exceptional and youd like to leave something extra. Apart from experiencing the 36-minute scenic ride driving from Little Harbour to Crossing Rocks in Abaco, the Bahamas is a great place to become your home away from home. As much as possible, bring all of them when you go out. Applicant will return in 2 working days to receive their Drivers Licence. The topography of the Bahamas is mostly flat, with the highest elevation at 206feet (Mount Alvernia, Eleutheria). I was an amazing experience and I would do it all over again., Below you will find our three most popular packages, 96% of Our Students Pass the Driving Test on, Once approved, kindly provide two forms of government-issued identification on the day of road testing. Only attempt this if you have years upon years of scooter driving experience. The Bahamas is well supported by an agriculture, fishing, and tourism-driven economy. All Images Add Image. If you are not sure about which visa you should apply for, you can always visit the country first as a tourist. You can find major U.S. car-rental companies in Bahamas as well. : (242)604-5402 |(242)604-5404 | (242)604-5409, The Transport Policy and Planning Unit was formed by the Government of The Bahamas as an initiative to develop its policy and planning capabilities in the Transport Sector. Butdriving in Nassau is a doddle and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! From the city center: Cable Beach was named as such because this was where the first submarine cable to Florida was constructed. If an applicant fails the practical test there is a waiting period of 30 days before they can resume the process. Food. Some CDWs do not cover damages on windscreens, headlights, tire punctures, and roadside assistance fees. This includes renting a car, booking a hotel, joining activities that require an I.D, etc. There is no strict timeline as to when you should apply for an IDP. However, you should still adhere to this because it still for your own safety. Avis, Herz, etc. Its pretty hard and we only recommend it if you have proper driving experience. What many people fail to recognize is that the Bahamas also has several historically-important land destinations that you can drive to. We cant leave you without some nice tips about renting a car in Nassau. There is no traffic on Queens Highway, but there are potholes that you need to watch out for. The most intriguing natural wonders in the Bahamas can be a tricky adjustment for North American.! Hotel, joining activities that require an I.D, etc Remember that alcohol and driving are complementary... Only recommend it if you are visiting the big island then you will have to put away your cellphone any. 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