Driving in Jamaica: Complete Guide for Tourists (2026)

Is It Safe to Drive in Jamaica?

Yes — thousands of tourists rent cars and drive safely across Jamaica every year. The key is being prepared. Jamaica drives on the left side of the road (like the UK), road conditions vary, and local driving styles can feel intense if you're not expecting it. But with the right car, a few tips, and some common sense, driving yourself is by far the best way to explore the island at your own pace.

The main tourist corridors — Montego Bay to Negril, Montego Bay to Ocho Rios, and the north coast highway — are well-maintained and clearly signed. The further inland or south you go, the more challenging the roads become.

Driving on the Left Side of the Road

Jamaica is a left-hand drive country. If you're from the US, Canada, or continental Europe, this is probably the biggest adjustment. Here's what to know:

• The steering wheel is on the right side of the car
• Overtake on the right (not the left)
• Roundabouts go clockwise
• The most common mistake is drifting right when turning — be conscious of this, especially at intersections
• After parking, many tourists step out onto the road side — always exit on the left (kerb) side

Most people adjust within 20-30 minutes. Take it slow leaving the airport, and by the time you reach your hotel you'll feel comfortable.

Road Conditions & Speed Limits

Jamaica has approximately 11,000 miles of road network. Main highways between major tourist areas are generally in good condition. However, secondary roads can have potholes, narrow lanes, and sharp corners — especially in mountainous areas.

Speed Limits

• Towns and built-up areas: 50 km/h (30 mph)
• Rural roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
• Highways: 110 km/h (70 mph)

Road Designations

Main roads are marked with letters: "A" roads are primary routes connecting major cities, "B" roads are secondary. The A1 connects Kingston through Montego Bay to Negril. The A3 runs along the north coast from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios.

Do I Need an International Driving Permit?

If your driver's license is in English, you do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Jamaica. Your valid home country license works for up to 12 months.

If your license is not in English (or uses non-Roman characters), you should obtain an IDP before travelling. You can get one from your local automobile association (AAA in the US, CAA in Canada, AA in the UK).

The minimum age to rent a car with Auto Motion is 23 years old, and you must have held your license for at least 2 years.

Car Rental Insurance in Jamaica

This is where many tourists get surprised — and where Auto Motion is different. Most international car rental companies charge $15-40 USD per day extra for insurance. At Auto Motion, comprehensive insurance is included in every rental at no extra charge.

Our standard coverage includes:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
• Third-Party Liability Insurance
• Theft Protection

If you have a credit card that covers car rental insurance internationally (like many Visa Signature or Mastercard World cards), you may also have secondary coverage. Check with your card issuer before travelling.

10 Essential Driving Tips for Jamaica

1. Drive on the left. Stay aware, especially at intersections and when pulling out of parking lots.
2. Use the horn. Jamaican drivers use the horn to say hello, signal their presence, and warn others. It's not aggressive — it's communication.
3. Avoid driving at night if possible, especially on unfamiliar roads. Street lighting is limited outside major towns.
4. Watch for pedestrians. Many roads have no sidewalks, so people walk on the road shoulder.
5. Photograph your car before driving off. Note any existing scratches or dents and share them with the rental company.
6. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight, as you would in any tourist destination.
7. Fill up when you can. Gas stations are common in towns but sparse in rural areas, especially inland.
8. Download offline maps. Data coverage can be spotty in mountainous areas. Google Maps or Maps.me both support offline maps for Jamaica.
9. Go with automatic transmission. All Auto Motion vehicles are automatic, which makes left-side driving much easier since you don't have to shift with your left hand.
10. Relax and enjoy it. Jamaicans are friendly and helpful. If you get lost, just ask — people are happy to help with directions.

Driving at Night in Jamaica

We strongly recommend avoiding night driving, especially if it's your first time in Jamaica. Many roads outside Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Kingston are poorly lit. Potholes are harder to see, pedestrians often walk on the road, and some vehicles drive without proper lights.

If you must drive at night, stick to main highways (A1, A3), drive slowly, and keep your high beams on when there's no oncoming traffic.

Driving Distances from Montego Bay

Montego Bay is perfectly positioned for exploring western Jamaica. Here are approximate drive times from Sangster International Airport:

• Negril — 1.5 hours (85 km / 53 miles) via the A1 coastal road
• Ocho Rios — 1.5-2 hours (100 km / 62 miles) via the A3 coast road
• Dunn's River Falls — 2 hours (near Ocho Rios)
• Falmouth — 30 minutes (30 km / 18 miles) east along the coast
• Rose Hall Great House — 15 minutes (10 km / 6 miles)
• Kingston — 3-4 hours (185 km / 115 miles) via the A1 or North-South Highway
• Port Antonio — 4-5 hours (220 km / 137 miles) via the coast
• Blue Mountains — 4-5 hours from Montego Bay (closer from Kingston)
• YS Falls — 2 hours (near Black River, south coast)

How to Rent a Car in Montego Bay

Renting a car from Auto Motion is simple:

1. Message us on WhatsApp at 876-275-5795 with your dates and preferred vehicle
2. Get an instant quote — the price includes insurance, free airport delivery, and unlimited local support
3. We deliver to you — at Sangster International Airport, your hotel, villa, or Airbnb anywhere in Montego Bay
4. Drive with confidence — all vehicles are automatic, fully insured, well-maintained, and inspected before every rental

No hidden fees, no airport surcharges, no surprise insurance costs. Just honest pricing from a local company that knows Montego Bay better than anyone.