Barbados Vehicle Registration Process

Imported Vehicle Registration Process In Barbados

Life on the island isn’t so bad and Barbados is no exception. The island nation is a left-hand side drive country so drivers should be mindful of the expectations and differences that accompany it, especially when coming from the U.S.

That said, here’s how to register a car in Barbados.

Registering a vehicle requires drivers to provide several documents, as with many other developed nations. Here’s a list:

• Weight certificate: This can be acquired from the Barbados Licensing Authority (BLA) for $12
• Proof of ownership
• Insurance certificate from a Barbados company
• Fee: This depends on the weight and make of the vehicle

License plates for imported cars generally have an H in front of them, letting locals know the driver is from out of the country. This gives locals a heads up that you’re new and they’ll be more forgiving as you navigate around the island.

To drive a vehicle, one must:

• Be 18 years of age to apply for a permanent license
• Pass a driving test: The exam will test your knowledge of the vehicle, traffic rules and your ability to drive the car

To get a driver’s license, driver’s usually must go through the learner’s permitting process, including a regulation test that will focus on the theoretical aspects of driving. The country also requires would-be license getters to apply 30 days after receiving a permit but that they wait no longer than 180 days.

The following is a breakdown of the fees:

• Learner’s permit: $80
• Regulation test: $30
• Driving test: $100
• Driver’s license: $50

For readers that are considering shipping a vehicle to Barbados, you can find more information about the process and what’s involved on our international shipping page. Get your questions answered and get a FREE estimate by contacting us today!

Driving In Barbados: Laws & Regulations

Driving Tips

Driving on the island is relatively easy going but drivers should still proceed with caution. There are not many shoulders on the narrow roads, which have pedestrians and bicyclists. Unfortunately, there are no restrictions or laws on driving under the influence of alcohol in the country. That lack of regulation leads to several road deaths on the island each year.

While driving, laws are relatively relaxed in the country, there are occasions that law enforcement officials will issue a ticket on the spot for reckless behavior. Those fines can be paid at the local police station.

Here are a few tips:

• Seat belts are mandatory
• Drivers often honk at each other as greetings or to warn others they are passing
• Drivers flash their lights at an intersection to signal others to go first
• There are designated times when the country has heavy traffic: 7-8:30 a.m. and 4:30-5:30 p.m.

The country has several roundabouts and there are specific guidelines to navigating them. Vehicles looking to take an immediate exit ought to stay in the left-hand lane of the roundabout while vehicles looking for further exits should stay in the right-hand lane.

Driving & Registration Resources For Barbados

Barbados Revenue Authority - A good general resource for registering a vehicle in Barbados, including basic information about fees and taxes.

Barbados Licensing Authority - Location and contact information for local licensing authority offices in Barbados.