Barbados Driving Licence: Obtaining a Barbadian driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads in Barbados. Here is an overview:
Types of Licences
There are different classes of driving licences issued in Barbados:
- Class 1 – Motorcycles
- Class 2 – Motorcars and light pick-up vehicles
- Class 3 – Heavy goods vehicles, lorries and buses
- Class 4 – Tractors and other agricultural vehicles
Eligibility and Minimum Age
To qualify for a Barbadian driving licence you must:
- Be at least 16 years and 9 months old (Class 1 and 2)
- Be at least 18 years old (Class 3 and 4)
- Pass the required theory and practical driving tests
- Complete mandatory driving lessons
- Obtain a medical certificate of fitness
Licence Validity
Licence validity periods in Barbados:
- Class 1 and 2 – 5 years
- Class 3 and 4 – 3 years
Licences must be renewed before they expire.
New Residents and Tourists
Visitors can drive using foreign licences for up to 6 months. New residents can drive for 3 months before obtaining a Barbadian licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Getting Your First Barbados Driving Licence
Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Barbados:
1. Enroll in Driving School
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Covers road rules, hazard perception, vehicle handling skills.
- Receive learner’s permit after completing classes.
2. Pass the Written Test
- Take the multiple choice test on road signs, laws, regulations.
- Score at least 75% to pass the written test.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- Take the practical test assessing driving skills and safety.
- An examiner will evaluate your control and judgement.
- Minimum pass score is 70 out of 100 points.
4. Obtain Your Licence
- Visit licensing authority with passed test certificates.
- Submit application, ID, medical certificate, photos.
- Pay required licence fee.
- Your photo driving licence will be issued.
Renewing a Barbadian Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:
- Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry.
- Present current licence and undergo vision screening.
- Get new photo taken and pay renewal fees.
- Your updated licence card will be provided.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your Barbadian driving licence is lost or stolen:
- File a police report regarding the loss/theft.
- Apply for replacement at licensing authority within 14 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 licensing authority within 2 weeks of address change.
- Provide proof of new address.
- Pay change of address fee.
- Your driving licence will be updated with new address.
Getting an International Driving Permit
To drive in other countries, you may need an IDP:
- Apply for IDP at the Barbados 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 Barbados
When driving in Barbados, follow these main traffic laws:
General Driving
- Drive on the left side of the road
- Mandatory seat belt wearing
- Ban on handheld cellphone use
- Yield to pedestrians at crossings
Speed Limits
- 30 km/h in built-up areas
- 60 km/h on rural main roads
- 80 km/h on highways
Fines
- Speeding fines from $75 to $500 Barbados Dollars
- Driving unlicensed – up to $1500 fine
Documentation
- Licence must be carried at all times when driving
Alcohol Limit
- 0.08% maximum blood alcohol content
- 0.04% limit for new drivers
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Barbados
If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with resulting fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid at licensing offices, post offices, or online.
- Pay within 14 days to avoid additional penalties.
- Keep receipt as proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- To contest, submit written representations within 14 days.
- Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be waived if dispute successful.
Licence Suspension
- Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
- Accumulating 10+ points in 1 year leads to suspension.
- Attend driving course and pay fees to regain licence.
Failure to Pay
- Unpaid fines referred for enforcement after 28 days.
- Additional late fees applied.
- Can result in licence being revoked.
FAQ on Barbadian Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get a Barbadian driving licence?
Getting a new Barbadian driving licence costs around 250-400 BBD. This includes mandatory lessons, theory and practical tests, and fees for licence issuance. Renewal every 3-5 years is about 75-100 BBD.
2. What is the minimum driving age in Barbados?
The minimum age to hold a motorcycle or car licence in Barbados is 16 years and 9 months. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a licence for heavy goods vehicles and buses.
3. Can I use my Canadian driving licence in Barbados?
Yes, as a Canadian visitor you can legally drive in Barbados with your valid Canadian licence for up to 6 months. New residents need to obtain a local licence after 3 months.
4. How do I replace my lost Barbadian driving licence?
Report the loss immediately to the police and apply for replacement at the licensing authority within 14 days. Provide the police report and old licence details. Pay the fee to obtain a duplicate licence.
5. Can I renew my Barbadian licence from overseas?
No, Barbadian driving licence renewal requires being present in-person for vision screening and to collect the updated physical licence card. You cannot renew your licence from overseas.