Car Rental in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is generally recommended for tourists wanting to explore beyond Kingstown, particularly on the main island of Saint Vincent. The country drives on the LEFT side of the road, which may require adjustment for visitors from right-hand driving countries. A temporary local driving permit is required in addition to your home license. Car rental is ideal for exploring Saint Vincent's countryside, visiting the volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and remote beaches at your own pace. The Grenadines islands (Bequia, Mustique, Canouan) are small enough that cars are less necessary, with many visitors using taxis or water taxis instead. Road conditions vary significantly - main routes are generally paved but can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous areas. Secondary roads may be poorly maintained with potholes. Driving can be challenging due to steep hills, sharp curves, and occasional livestock on roads. In Kingstown, parking can be difficult and traffic congested, making taxis a better option for city-only visits. For island-hopping itineraries focused on the Grenadines, car rental is typically unnecessary. However, for exploring Saint Vincent's interior and coastal areas independently, a rental car offers valuable flexibility.

Local Temporary Driving Permit

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines requires visitors to obtain a temporary local driving permit upon arrival. This can typically be arranged through your car rental agency or at police stations.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. This must be presented along with your temporary local permit when renting and driving.

Minimum Age

Information not available for specific age requirements in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Check with rental agencies for their minimum age policies, which typically range from 21-25 years old.

Credit Card

A valid credit card in the driver's name is generally required for security deposits. Check current deposit amounts with your chosen rental agency.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included in rentals, but comprehensive coverage is recommended. Verify what's included and consider additional coverage for peace of mind.

International Driving Permit

While a temporary local permit is required, an IDP may be helpful as supporting documentation. Verify current requirements with rental agencies before travel.

Rent from E.T. Joshua Airport (SVD) on arrival for convenience, as most international and local agencies operate there - verify your rental includes the temporary local driving permit (required for visitors) which agencies typically arrange.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage and photograph it, and confirm whether you're driving on the LEFT side of the road (British driving system) - check that spare tire, jack, and warning triangle are present.

GPS coverage can be limited on smaller islands, so download offline maps beforehand and ask your rental agency for a local map - main roads on St. Vincent are generally well-marked, but rural and island routes may have minimal signage.

Fuel stations are readily available in Kingstown and main towns on St. Vincent but scarce on smaller islands - fill up before heading to remote areas and clarify the fuel return policy (full-to-full is standard) with your rental agency.

Allow extra time for airport returns to account for potentially winding roads and confirm your agency's exact return location and hours - take photos of the odometer and fuel level, and get a receipt confirming the vehicle's condition upon return.

Mountain roads in Saint Vincent feature steep grades, sharp hairpin turns, and narrow passages - drive cautiously and use lower gears on descents, especially in the interior and along the Leeward Highway.

Roads can be narrow with limited shoulders and occasional livestock or pedestrians - local drivers are familiar with these conditions, so maintain safe following distances and expect sudden stops.

Heavy tropical rainfall can cause flash flooding and reduce visibility quickly - avoid driving through standing water and be extra cautious during rainy season (June-November) when road conditions deteriorate.

Driving is on the left side of the road (British style) - if you're accustomed to right-hand traffic, take extra time to adjust, especially at roundabouts and when making turns.