Driving in Turks and Caicos: a first-timer's guide

Driving on the left in a left-hand-drive car

Turks and Caicos drives on the left, like the UK. But almost every car on the island is imported from the United States, so the steering wheel is on the left, the same as at home for American and Canadian visitors. It sounds odd, and it feels odd for about ten minutes.

The thing to remember is that you sit next to the edge of the road, not the centre line. Your passenger is the one beside oncoming traffic.

Be careful about overtaking. Sitting on the "wrong" side makes it hard to see what's coming, so it's rarely worth it on a small island where you're never far from where you're going.

How the roundabouts work

Providenciales has no traffic lights. The main road, Leeward Highway, runs along the middle of the island with two lanes in each direction, and its junctions are roundabouts.

1. Go clockwise (to the left), the opposite of a US traffic circle.
2. Give way to traffic coming from your right, which is already on the roundabout. Once you're on, keep moving unless you have to stop.
3. Signal: left for the first exit, right if you're going further round, then left just after you pass the exit before yours.

Speed limits and road conditions

Speed limits are 20 mph (32 km/h) in built-up areas and 40 mph (64 km/h) elsewhere. Distances are short, so you'll rarely notice. Most of Provo is 15 to 30 minutes from anywhere else.

Things to watch for:

• Potholes and speed bumps, some of them unpainted and hard to spot.
• Signs that mix US and UK styles, and plenty of roads with no sign at all. Use Google Maps on your phone; it works well here.
• Night driving. Street lighting is limited away from the main roads, and many drivers use their high beams. Leave extra space on Leeward Highway after dark.
• Dirt roads. Some of the best remote beaches are at the end of rough tracks. A Jeep handles them well, but go slowly, stay on the track and check with us before heading somewhere remote after heavy rain.

What you need to rent and drive

• A valid driving licence from home, held for at least one year. If it isn't in the Roman alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit as well.
• You must be 25 or older to rent from us.
• A Mastercard, Visa or American Express in the renter's name. We don't take a security deposit.

Full details are in our terms of hire.

Gas, parking and keeping your Jeep safe

Gas is sold by the US gallon and costs noticeably more than in the States. Your Jeep comes with a full tank; please bring it back full. There are gas stations along Leeward Highway and in the Grace Bay area.

Parking is free and easy almost everywhere, including at the beaches. Jeeps have soft tops and removable panels, so never leave bags, phones or passports in the Jeep, especially at quiet beaches. Take valuables with you or leave them at your hotel or villa.

If something goes wrong

Call or WhatsApp us on +1 649 247 1711. A real person on the island answers. In an emergency, dial 911.

Quick questions

Which side of the road do they drive on in Turks and Caicos?

The left. Most cars, including all our Jeeps, are left-hand drive (US-style), so the driver sits next to the edge of the road.

Is it hard to drive in Turks and Caicos?

Not really. Traffic is light outside rush hour, distances are short and there are no traffic lights. Most visitors are comfortable after the first roundabout or two.

What is the speed limit on Providenciales?

20 mph (32 km/h) in town and 40 mph (64 km/h) on rural roads.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

Not if your licence is in the Roman alphabet. Bring your valid home licence; you must have held it for at least one year to rent from us.