Bahamas Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Bahamas Driving Licence: Obtaining a Bahamian driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in The Bahamas:

Bahamas Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different classes of licences issued:

  • Class A – Motorcycles and scooters
  • Class B – Motor cars
  • Class C – Heavy vehicles over 25,000 lbs
  • Class D – Public transportation vehicles
  • Class E – Trailers

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To qualify for a Bahamian driving licence you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (Class A and B)
  • Be at least 18 years old (Class C)
  • Be at least 21 years old (Class D)
  • Pass the theory and practical driving tests
  • Be medically fit to drive

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in The Bahamas:

  • Class A, B – 10 years
  • Class C, D, E – 5 years

Licences must be renewed before they expire.

New Residents and Visitors

New residents can drive using foreign licences for 30 days. Visitors can drive for up to 3 months with a valid licence from their home country. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Bahamas Driving Licence

Here are the steps to obtaining your initial Bahamian driving licence:

1. Enroll in a Certified Driving School

  • Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Instruction covers traffic laws, hazard perception, skills.
  • Receive learner’s permit after completing classes.

2. Pass the Written Knowledge Test

  • Take the multiple choice written test on road rules, signs, laws.
  • Answer 28 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.

3. Pass the Practical Driving Test

  • Take the practical test assessing your driving skills.
  • An examiner will evaluate you on vehicle control, safety, judgement.
  • Minimum pass score is 70%.

4. Apply for Your Licence

  • Visit licence office with passed test certificates.
  • Submit application form, ID, health certificate, fees.
  • Upon approval, your photo licence will be issued.

Renewing a Bahamian Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, you must renew before expiry:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiration.
  • Present current licence and get new photo taken.
  • Undergo vision screening and pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence will be issued.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Bahamian driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a police report regarding the loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at licence office within 7 days.
  • Provide police report and old licence details.
  • Pay replacement fee.
  • You will be issued a duplicate licence.

Changing Your Address on Your Licence

When you change your permanent residence:

  • Notify licence office within 30 days of address change.
  • Provide proof of new address.
  • Pay change of address fee.
  • Your driving licence will be modified with new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

To drive in other countries, you may need an IDP:

  • Apply for IDP at your local automobile association.
  • Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
  • Complete application and pay fee.
  • Carry both your licence and IDP when driving overseas.

Traffic Rules and Regulations in The Bahamas

When driving in The Bahamas, follow these main traffic laws:

General Driving

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt wearing
  • Require child restraints as appropriate
  • No mobile phone use while driving

Speed Limits

  • 30 mph in settlements
  • 50 mph on urban roads
  • 60 mph on highways

Documentation

  • Licence must be carried at all times when driving

Alcohol Limit

  • 0.08% maximum blood alcohol content
  • Lower limit for novice and professional drivers

Fines

  • Speeding fines from $75
  • Driving unlicenced – fines up to $500

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in The Bahamas

If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with resulting fines:

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at police headquarters and other locations.
  • Pay within 14 days to avoid additional penalties.
  • Obtain receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, submit written dispute within 14 days.
  • Provide any evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute successful.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
  • 12+ penalty points in 12 months also leads to suspension.
  • Complete improvement course to regain licence.

Failure to Pay

  • Unresolved fines referred for enforcement after 28 days.
  • Additional fees added.
  • Can result in driving licence being revoked.

FAQ on Bahamian Driving Licences

1. How much does it cost to get a Bahamian driving licence?

Getting a new Bahamian driving licence costs about $60-100 BSD. This covers the mandatory lessons, written and road tests, and fees for licence issuance. Renewal every 5-10 years is around $30 BSD.

2. What is the minimum driving age in The Bahamas?

The minimum age to hold a Class A or B licence for motorcycles, cars and light trucks is 16 years. You must be at least 18 years old to drive heavy vehicles and 21 years old for public transportation vehicles.

3. Can I use my Canadian licence in The Bahamas?

Yes, as a Canadian visitor you can legally drive in The Bahamas with your valid Canadian licence for up to 3 months. New residents can drive for 30 days before getting a Bahamian licence.

4. How do I replace my lost Bahamian driving licence?

Report loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at the driving licence office. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the replacement fee to get a duplicate licence issued.

5. Can I renew my Bahamian licence from overseas?

No, you cannot renew your Bahamian driving licence from overseas. You must be present in-person at the licence office to undergo vision screening and obtain the updated physical licence.CopyRetry