The Segmental Info System

Driving in the Virgin Islands

When driving in the Virgin Islands, stick to the left side of the road

Photo credit: © Andy961
virginislands.guide.travel.basics.driving
 

On both the USVI and the BVI, cars drive on the left side of the road (as opposed to the U.S. standard of driving on the right).

Other than that, driving conditions on the USVI are similar to those of the continental U.S., so visitors should familiarize themselves with general U.S. driving rules. Rental cars are particularly popular on the USVI, as opposed to the BVI, where few tourists bother to rent cars.

On the BVI, road signs are scarce, and there are no seatbelt laws. Pedestrians should take extreme caution, as there are no right-of-way laws. Locals frequently drag race on main roads, and livestock wander the roads freely. On Tortola, watch for steep inclines. Expect to pay an extra $10(USD) for a local license when renting a car.

On both the BVI and the USVI, be careful of slick roads in the rare instance of rain. If you plan on driving outside of developed areas, be sure your vehicle is equipped for it. Request four-wheel-drive and make sure that brakes and tires are in good condition.

The U.S. State Department rates the road conditions in the British Virgin Islands as shown below:

 

Condition Rating
Safety of Public Transportation Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance Fair
 

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