Everything you need to know before you rent a car and start exploring
If you want independence while visiting Barbados, renting a vehicle gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, local restaurants, historic sites, and everyday island life at your own pace. Whether you stay on the west coast, the south, or inland, a hire car lets you get around comfortably without relying on timetables or taxis.
This guide explains how the process works from booking to pick-up, your legal requirements, where to find rental locations across the island, typical pricing in Barbados and US dollars, and what to expect when driving here for the first time. You will also find a helpful FAQ section near the end of the page.
I have worked in the tourism industry for almost two decades, partnering with reputable local providers such as Chelsea Motors. So this advice comes from genuine local knowledge and day-to-day experience, not guesswork.
Recommended Car Hire Companies
About driving here
- Driving is on the left
- Seatbelts are required
- Roads vary from highways to narrow country lanes
- You will often meet roundabouts
- Take your time
- Stay alert
- Enjoy the journey.
You will need a valid licence from your home country, and your rental agent will check it when completing paperwork. Families can also request a car seat, and most vehicles are air-conditioned for comfort.
Important Update: Car Rental Levy and Visitor Driving Permits
On October 15, 2025, the Barbados Government introduced two significant changes that make the visitor driving process simpler and more transparent.
Visitor Driving Permits are discontinued.
Visitors no longer need a Visitor Driving Permit to drive legally. Instead, you only need:
- A valid driving licence from your home country
- To present that licence to the rental agent when booking or at vehicle pick-up
So the old permit application process is gone. You rent the vehicle, show your licence, and drive with confidence.
Car Rental Levy
A Car Rental Levy now applies to all vehicle rentals in Barbados. This levy:
- Is BBD $5 ($2.5 USD) per day
- Is capped at BBD $35.00 ($17.50 USD) per rental
- Is not charged beyond 7 days
- Must be displayed clearly on your invoice
So a 3-day rental includes a BBD $15 levy, and a 10-day rental still totals BBD $35 ($17.50 USD).
You can read the complete policy note from the Barbados Licensing Authority and the Car Rental Levy Guide and Resources.
This update applies across all rental locations, including the airport, hotels, villas, Bridgetown, Christ Church, and other popular visitor areas.
Why rent a vehicle during your stay?
A hire car gives you flexibility. You can plan a road trip along the East Coast, visit local attractions, or simply enjoy a relaxed beach-hopping day. It also helps families, business travellers, and repeat visitors who want independence.
You will find rental locations at Grantley Adams International Airport, in the capital, in coastal hotel zones, and in residential areas. Some companies also deliver vehicles directly to villas and apartments.
Types of vehicles available
Most providers offer several classes so you can choose what fits your plans:
- Economy car
- Compact car
- Suzuki Swift
- Suzuki Jimny
- Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Rush
- Chevrolet
Larger models suit families, while smaller options are ideal for easy parking and city driving. Long-term rental options are also available for extended stays.
Many vehicles offer unlimited mileage and include roadside assistance, so you always have help if needed.
Prices, Payment, and Insurance
Rates are quoted in Barbados dollars, with USD references often shown alongside them so you can easily compare costs. Payment is usually made by credit card, and optional insurance upgrades are available to reduce liability in the event of damage.
If your plans change, ask your chosen car rental company about their cancellation policy before confirming.
Your agreement will list the pick-up location, pick-up time, and your confirmed return date. Keep this handy in case your airline changes schedules.
Where do you collect your vehicle?
Most visitors arrange a pick-up at Grantley Adams International Airport so they can drive away straight after clearing customs.
Others prefer the vehicle to be delivered to their hotel or villa.
There are many rental locations across the island, including:
- Rental locations at the airport
- Rental locations serving cruise visitors
- Rental locations offering villa delivery
- Rental locations across the south coast
This expansive network makes renting simple wherever you stay.
Local companies you can trust
Barbados has several reputable local providers who understand the needs of visitors, long-stay guests, families, and business travellers. Well-known names include Chelsea Motors, Bajan Car Rentals, Drive-A-Matic, and Stoutes Car Rental, all with years of service and island-wide rental locations.
You can also browse recommended partners on Totally Barbados to compare rates, availability, and service levels.
Driving Tips for Visitors
If this is your first time driving on the left, take it slow for the first day until it feels natural.
- Stay alert for pedestrians, minibuses, and scooters.
- Give yourself extra stopping distance, and approach roundabouts with care.
- If an accident occurs, contact your car rental company immediately and follow their instructions.
- Allow a little extra time at peak hours when schools and offices open or close.
- Outside these windows, traffic is usually relaxed and easy to navigate.
Booking online before you arrive
Most visitors reserve in advance to secure the vehicle type they want. This is especially helpful if you prefer a specific style, such as an economy car, compact car, or van.
Booking also lets you confirm your pick-up location, set your pick-up time, add a car seat if needed, and lock in the correct rate with any included benefits, such as unlimited mileage.
If you book late, you may still find availability across multiple rental locations, but your choices can be more limited in high season (December-March).
Areas you may drive during your stay
Many visitors base themselves on the south coast, the west coast, or the inland neighbourhoods.
Popular areas include Bridgetown, Oistins, Holetown, Speightstown, and, of course, Christ Church.
Road surfaces vary, so drive carefully in rural districts and reduce speed after dark.
Refunds, flexibility, and peace of mind
Plans sometimes change. Flight rescheduling, weather, or family needs may affect your schedule. Speak to your provider about cancellation policies, possible extensions, and any additional fees before you rent.
Good service, clear communication, and reliable vehicles matter more than price alone. Read recent traveller feedback and choose a provider with strong reviews and island-wide rental locations so support is always close by.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are the most common questions about renting a vehicle in Barbados, including booking, pricing, insurance, and legal requirements.
- Best websites to reserve a rental car online?
You can book directly with trusted local providers like Chelsea Motors, or browse the recommended partners listed on Totally Barbados. Booking direct with a local office gives you clear terms and local support. - Car Rental pick-up and drop-off locations at the airport?
Grantley Adams International Airport offers several rental locations serving arrivals. Your agreement confirms the pick-up details. You return the vehicle to the same office unless a different drop-off is arranged in advance. - How do I book from overseas?
Reserve online, enter your details, and pay using your credit card. You present your home licence on arrival, and you’re ready to drive. - Are long-term rental options available?
Yes. Several providers offer long-term rental packages for extended stays, often including servicing and roadside assistance. - How do I find last-minute deals?
Contact local offices directly, as rental locations sometimes have returned vehicles that have not yet been updated online. - Is unlimited mileage available?
Yes. Many companies include unlimited mileage, which is ideal if you plan to explore the whole island. - Are reviews helpful when choosing a provider?
Yes. Look for consistent service, clean vehicles, and responsive support. - Which are the best choices for tourists?
The best option depends on your budget, group size, and comfort needs. Families often prefer SUVs, while couples choose smaller models. - Do I still need a Visitor Driving Permit?
No. On October 15, 2025, the permit system ended. You only need a valid home licence and must present it at the time of booking or vehicle handover. Full details are in the Government PDF linked earlier.
Car Hire Companies and Car Rental Providers
Some local car rental agencies represent international and United States companies. Popular brands such as Avis, Alamo, Europcar, Enterprise, Thrifty, Hertz Car Rental, and Sixt Car Rental are associated with local car hire agencies and offer various car rental deals on the island.
Related Articles
- Car Rental Listings
- Get around Barbados
- Special Offers – Transportation and Cars
- Living in Barbados
- Visitors Guide
