Essential driving and travel tips to make the most of your Kingston car rental experience
Jamaica drives on the left side of the road, similar to the UK. If you're used to driving on the right, don't worry — most visitors adapt quickly, especially on the well-maintained north coast highway.
Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in towns and 80-110 km/h on highways. The new North-South and East-West highways are excellent, while some rural roads can be narrow and winding.
💡 All our vehicles are right-hand drive with automatic transmission, making it easy for international visitors to drive.
A valid driver's license from your home country is accepted for up to 3 months. International Driving Permits are also accepted.
You must be at least 25 years old to rent a vehicle with We Rent Auto.
A valid card is needed for the security deposit. We also accept cash payments for the rental itself.
All our vehicles come with comprehensive insurance. Optional additional coverage is available.
Gas stations are plentiful along main roads and in all major towns. Most accept cash and cards. Petrol prices are set nationally, so there's no need to shop around. Our vehicles are provided with a full tank and should be returned full.
Jamaica is a wonderful destination and most visitors have a fantastic experience. A few common-sense tips to keep your trip smooth: lock your car when leaving it unattended, avoid driving in unfamiliar areas after dark, keep valuables out of sight, and use well-lit parking areas.
📞 Emergency number in Jamaica: 119 (Police) or 110 (Fire/Ambulance). We Rent Auto daily 7am–9pm support: 876-546-5107
Both 119 and 911 reach emergency dispatch, but a direct number for the local ambulance, police, or fire station can save precious minutes. Choose our mobile phone add-on and the relevant Kingston numbers come pre-saved.
Driving while using a mobile phone carries a fine of roughly US$250. Pull over safely before making a call or checking your phone.
Mosquito repellent is seldom optional in Jamaica. If you forgot it, pick some up — and pack a spare.
The north coast highway from Kingston to Ocho Rios is one of the most scenic drives in the Caribbean. Stop at Scotchies on the way for the best jerk chicken you'll ever have. If you're heading to Negril, take the coastal route through Hopewell for stunning views.
Toll roads save significant time. The East-West highway to Kingston cuts the drive from 4+ hours to about 2 hours. Toll costs approximately $10-15 USD each way.
Cross-island drive via T1 highway through May Pen and Mandeville. Ends at Seven Mile Beach for legendary sunsets. Read full guide →
Fastest via T3 (North-South Highway). Visit Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole, and Mystic Mountain on arrival. Read full guide →
Scenic east coast A4 route through Bull Bay and Morant Bay. Blue Lagoon, Reach Falls, quieter beaches. Read full guide →
Via the toll highway. Visit Bob Marley Museum, Devon House, and the Blue Mountains.
The ultimate road trip through Ocho Rios to Portland's beaches, Blue Lagoon, and Reach Falls.