Renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago can be a good way to explore the islands, allowing for maximum flexibility and saving time where public transport might be slow or unreliable. Having a rental car allows visitors to access areas such as the Asia Wright Nature Centre bird sanctuary in Trinidad or hidden beaches like Englishman’s Bay on Tobago. The coastal road, which circles around Tobago, is a popular route for a one-day road trip.
When parking in Trinidad and Tobago, it is very important to not leave any valuables in your car, even if out of sight. When possible, you should always park in a secure, off-road lot and consider fitting a steering wheel lock as a visible deterrent.
By law, children under five years of age must be seated in an appropriate restraint when traveling in a car in Trinidad and Tobago. They must also never be seated in the front seat of the vehicle. Rental agencies can provide child or baby seats when booked in advance; expect to pay an additional daily fee of around TTD 40.50 (6 USD) with an international agency like Sixt.
If you choose to rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago, it may be worth asking the rental agency about traffic signals before setting off. Many local drivers use hand signals instead of signal or brake lights to indicate that they are about to turn or slow down. If in doubt about what a hand signal means, it is smart to slow down and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Book your rental car in Trinidad and Tobago at least 2 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
Economy rental cars in Trinidad and Tobago are around 39% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Trinidad and Tobago
Economy (Kia Rio or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Trinidad and Tobago.
Anyone who chooses to rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago should be aware of several features of island driving and should never drive at night. Common hazards to watch out for include potholes and landslides, plus livestock and pedestrians on the road. In terms of driving styles, you can expect to encounter tailgating, sudden stops, and lane changing without signaling. Driving is on the left side and road signs are in English.
To rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago, most agencies require drivers to be at least 25 years old and to have held a valid license for at least two years. Some agencies like Sixt, however, will accept drivers as young as 21 for an additional daily fee of around 76 TTD (11.25 USD). Drivers with a license issued in the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, or Bahamas may use their domestic license to rent a car in Trinidad and Tobago for up to 90 days; in all other cases, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is required.
Fuel in Trinidad and Tobago is relatively inexpensive, unleaded petrol costing around 5.75 TTD (0.85 USD) per liter and diesel about 3.40 TTD (0.50 USD) per liter. Petrol stations usually have attendants and may operate irregular hours.
There are three main speed limits enforced in Trinidad and Tobago, and both fixed and mobile speed cameras are in operation. In well developed areas, drivers should stick to a top speed of 55 km/h (34 mph), while in rural areas, this limit is increased to 80 km/h (50 mph). Highways have a maximum speed limit of 110 km/h (68 mph).
The rates displayed include all taxes and fees for car rentals for the class listed and were found by KAYAK users in the last 48 hours. Offers are subject to change and may not be available on all car rentals listed or dates of travel. Some car rental providers charge additional fees for other services (GPS, infant car seats, etc.). Please check the car rental providers' sites.