Driving in Turks and Caicos
Your Guide to Renting a Car and Driving on Your Vacation
Whether you’re a tourist seeking to explore the islands at your own pace, or a business traveller needing transportation, this guide is for you. One of the best ways to explore this tropical paradise is by renting a car. From navigating roundabouts to deciding between renting a car or taking a taxi, this article has got you covered. Buckle up and let’s dive into everything you need to know about car rentals in Turks and Caicos!
Renting a car in Turks and Caicos is a popular choice among visitors and having a car rental offers you freedom and flexibility during your stay. With several rental companies to choose from, you can easily find the perfect vehicle to suit your needs, whether it’s a compact car for zipping around Grace Bay or a sturdy SUV or Jeep for off-road adventures to Northwest Point. We recommend securing your rental vehicle in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Requirements for Renting a Car in Turks and Caicos
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 25 years old to rent a vehicle. You must have a valid driver’s license and a credit card is required. Additionally, while many agencies include basic insurance in the rental price, we highly recommend purchasing additional insurance coverage. This ensures your peace of mind while exploring the islands, especially on those unpaved island roads!
Driving in Turks and Caicos
Once you’ve secured your rental, take your time familiarising yourself with local road signs and rules. By remembering to keep left, observing roundabout etiquette and speed limits, and wearing your seatbelt – you will have a safe and stress free driving experience in the islands! Most car rental agencies will send you off with a road map, or you can use Google Maps or Apple Maps to find your way around. If you’re not roaming on your vacation in Turks and Caicos, take advantage of maps features to download maps in advance for use offline.
Driving on the Left Side of the Road
Turks and Caicos is a country that drives on the left hand side of the road – the ‘wrong side’ for those of you used to driving in countries like the United States! Many rental vehicles are right hand drive which makes it easier to ‘think left’. Some, however are left hand drive so it is important that you and your copilots remember to keep left and look right. Most rental cars are automatic transmission.
Roundabout Etiquette
There are no traffic lights in Turks and Caicos. Instead, a common feature at busier intersections are roundabouts, also known as traffic circles. Take extra caution at the roundabouts and remember to slow down when approaching and look right as traffic flows clockwise. Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way. It is common courtesy to signal your exit from the roundabout. a little patience and vigilance, it won’t take long at all to be comfortable in the driver’s seat.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are not always clearly indicated on the roads in Turks and Caicos, especially roads in the towns and settlements. The speed limit on the highways, like Leeward Highway in Providenciales, is 40mph. As we drive on the left here in Turks and Caicos, the fast lane is on the right hand side. Slower traffic should remain in the left lane. In residential areas, reduce your speed to 20mph. And in school zones, exercise caution at start and finish times and slow down to 10mph.
Turks and Caicos Airport Car Rental Guide
Several car rental agencies operate at the Providenciales International Airport with car rental desks located in the international arrivals hall. Grace Bay Car Rentals has vehicles and an office on site at the airport, while others such as Avis, Scooter Bob’s, Rent A Buggy and Budget have their offices nearby. These agencies will transport you to their nearby locations to complete your paperwork and hand over the keys. You also have the option to arrange advanced delivery of your vehicle to your villa or hotel.
Hop in Your Rental Car and Explore
Whether you’re heading to Grace Bay Beach to shop or exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, having your own wheels allows you to set your own pace and discover all that Turks and Caicos has to offer. Navigating the roads in Turks and Caicos can seem daunting for some, especially those accustomed to driving on the other side of the road.
We recommend renting a car if you plan to venture out from your resort or rental villa often. For those planning on exploring often, having a rental car is the most economic option versus taxis. While it may be intimidating at first, with some practice and awareness you will soon get the hang of it!