Car Rental Terms & Conditions Barbados
Get informed Barbados Car Rental Terms – This is the place for you
Age For Car Categories
Drivers must be a minimum of
- 21 years for Economy cars,
- 23 years for Economy and Compact
- and 25 for all others.
Renter must be over the minimum age of 21 and up to a maximum of 85 years of age. Drivers over 70+ will need a local doctor’s medical certificate.
Drive Barbados reserves the right to refuse any rental request if the driver fails to meet the minimum age requirements terms at the delivery.
No young/senior driver fees apply.
Driver’s Licence
Renters must have a clean driver’s record and a valid driving licence for at least two (2) years.
A national Driver’s Licence issued from your country is required. (NO COPY / DIGITAL)
An International Driving License is not required.
Visitors Driver’s Permits
By law, visitors must have a local driver’s permit to drive on Barbados roads. These permits are available from the Barbados Licensing Authority or authorized agencies.
Fees are:
Two-months permit 10 BBD (5 USD)
one-year permit 100 BBD (50 USD)
Additional Drivers
A daily fee of US $3.50 (maximum US $50) is charged per additional driver.
A maximum of two drivers, including the main driver, are allowed.
The renter’s spouse isn’t charged this additional driver fee.
Mileage
Enjoy unlimited mileage at no extra cost with your vehicle rental in Barbados. Our rates include this advantage, ensuring you get the most value from your vehicle hire without additional fees.
One-Way Car Rental
We provide free vehicle pickup and dropoff services anywhere on the island without any extra charge. Whether it’s a hotel, villa, apartment, or any residence
Vehicle Long-Term Rental & Leasing
Our vehicle rental service offers short and on a long-term or lease basis at competitive rates. Flexible & straightforward monthly car hire from 1 to 3 months, with free delivery and pickup, additional drivers, and monthly cleaning and maintenance
Credit Card Payment Methods
Major cards like Visa are accepted. A credit card is essential for the deposit. Card authorization is processed, with a refund given to the rental if undamaged—no booking without card details.
We also accept cash payments in Sterling Pounds and US dollars.
Regular working hours and overtime information
Regular working hours in Barbados are 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Overtime from 8 pm to 11 pm incurs a condition of an extra fee of US $30.00 for all delivery services during this period.
Rental Vehicle Makes & Models
Explore our fleet of meticulously maintained vehicles, including later-model rental options.
Choose from a Moke, economy or compact sedan, Jimny soft top, or Toyota Noah liteace minivan to meet your vehicle needs efficiently.
Vehicle Checks Before Delivery of Car
Our well-trained staff, skilled engineers and front-desk personnel ensure the car is checked thoroughly.
The vehicle undergoes rigorous inspection before its delivery, guaranteeing it arrives in perfect condition.
Get Yourself a special deal!
Book early and secure the best car rental deals to avoid disappointment! Check out our special offers or grab last-minute quotes on your favourite vehicle to enjoy significant savings in Barbados.
Rates & Charges
- Rental rates fluctuate due to demand and market conditions. Our rates may vary depending on the season.
- Guaranteed rates apply at publication, subject to availability.
- Payments are due on the day of delivery;
- Early return of an agreed weekly rental converts the rental charge to the daily rate.
- The prices we quoted are what you pay on delivery – no hidden cost!
Insurance Coverage
All vehicles come with third-party liability insurance. Renters are liable for car damages caused during hire. Credit card insurance may apply, subject to terms.
Security deposits
A signed credit/debit card imprint for the deductible/security deposit of US $500 for the accident is necessary to hire the vehicle.
Our agents inspect returned vehicles to ensure they are in the same condition delivered.
Fuel Policy
Option 1: ¼ tank on delivery, but clients can return the vehicle with an empty tank.
Option 2: Prepay a full tank on delivery and return empty; service charges apply.
There is no refund for gas at the end of the rental period.
Refine a Booking
Request changes to reservations anytime via email. We process changes within 12 hours. Revised rental totals sent by email require reconfirmation.
Note: Request changes affect rates.
Cancellation Policy
Notify us promptly to cancel your reservation. If you don’t show up within 24 hours and haven’t informed us, it’s considered a ‘No Show.’ thus, you will incur the total rental fee as arranged in the event of a ‘No Show’.
Free Delivery & Pickup of vehicles
We offer free vehicle delivery and pickup anywhere on the island, including hotels, villas, apartments or residences.
Airport Delivery
One of our representatives will await your arrival hall at the Airport. When exiting the arrival hall, an agent will hold a sign with the customer’s name.
Drive Barbados does not charge delivery or pickup fees for services offered during operation hours (between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm). However, delivery and pickup outside office hours will attract a US $30 delivery fee.
The pickup and delivery included to or from the airport and villa.
Does your flight get delayed? For example, if you arrive after 11:00 pm, please call our office at (246) 6240702 at 10:00 am to reschedule your delivery.
No extra charges for flight delays
Airport Return:
Return the vehicle to the main car park of the Airport. And the key and parking ticket will be explained to you on arrival.
For Cruise Port Deliveries:
Due to our small fleet of vehicles, we do not offer one (1) day rental. However, we can request a taxi/island tour guide to take you around the island.
Please contact Richard @ (246) – 268 – 3400 / (246) – 245 – 5747 on cell /WhatsApp
Rental Extension
Rental period extension requests must be made at least 24 hours before the return date.
Note that extensions are subject to availability.
Late return fees:
– Up to 1 hour: $10,
– 1-3 hours: $25,
– over 3 hours: full-day rental..
Road Map and GPS
When collecting your vehicle, you’ll get a complimentary island road map. Consider renting a GPS unit for $5 US per day for seamless navigation, ensuring you explore every vehicle route effortlessly.
17/7 Roadside Assistance
Never get stranded. Have a flat tyre. Dead battery? Let our free 17/7 hour roadside assistance take care of it for you.
Infant seat / Baby seat / Booster Car Seats
Drive Barbados offers three child seat options: infant, baby, and booster seats.
Baby seats are compulsory for all infants under 5 years of age.
Each vehicle child seat costs US$ 25/week, which is safer and more comfortable.
For rentals over 28 days, one vehicle seat is free.
Tyre & Rim Damage
Drive Barbados will repair a flat tyre at no charge. Still, the replacement cost will be the client’s responsibility if the rim or tyre is damaged beyond repair.
However, all our vehicle tyres are delivered in good condition. Therefore, we encourage our clients to carefully examine car tyres when picking the car up for rent.
Charges may apply for roadside assistance.
Damage / Loss Keys
The client will replace any lost or damaged keys and fobs.
Non Smoking
Our car rental terms and conditions in Barbados strictly enforce a non-smoking policy across our entire fleet.
Renters are liable for any breach of this condition, ensuring a smoke-free experience for all customers.
Cleaning Fee
We ask that you take care of our vehicles during your rental period. A cleaning fee of US $150 may be charged in the event of a return of a vehicle with a filthy, stained, wet interior or a vehicle is returned smelling of smoke from any source.
Traffic Violations, Traffic fines and Administrative Sanctions
Any tickets or administrative sanctions from traffic violations in Barbados during the rental period are solely the renter’s responsibility. Violations, fines, expenses, and a 25% admin fee will be charged if not reported.
Personal Property
Drive Barbados will not be held responsible for the loss or damage of any items left in the hire vehicle.
Although our island is a safe place to holiday, we encourage all our valued customers to be vigilant and take precautions to keep their personal property safe and secure.
Accident
What should I do if I have an accident?
Here are the steps to take in the event of an accident:
1. Make sure everyone is safe
2. Call emergency services if someone is hurt.
3. Get information from the other driver involved:
- Names
- Phone number
- Address
- Insurance information
2. Get information from the police officer reporting the accident :
- Names
- Police badge number
- Phone number
- Station posted
3. Take photographs of the accident scene and any damage to cars.
4. Call the car rental company right away and follow their reporting procedures.
5. Keep all documents about the accident for your records.
Remember: Safety first, collect information, and notify the rental company!
Don’t leave the scene without reporting. If unreachable, contact police. Failure to report results in covering the rental car damage costs.
Car Replacement
If your vehicle is immobilized due to an accident or breakdown, we’ll replace it within 24 hours of reporting. We reserve the right to investigate and deny if vehicle misuse violates the terms. Refunds available.
The Use Of The Vehicle Is Restricted For
- The harm or damage was caused intentionally.
- An unauthorized driver driving the car.
- The damage or loss occurred because the driver was influenced by alcohol or drugs.
- Use the vehicle for hire or benefit.
- Use the vehicle for any illegal purpose.
- Use the vehicle for racing or driving tuition.
- Exceed the number of passengers permitted in the vehicle or for which the vehicle is designed.
Thank you for taking the time to read this Terms & Conditions of Rental Agreement.
We look forward to serving you exceptional vehicle hire services in Barbados.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or require additional clarification.
FAQs for car rental terms & conditions
What does the rental car agreement need to include?
The term that the rental will occur (dates), rental cost, payment terms, and applicable fees. It
must outline insurance specifications, liability for damage, and fuel policies. The contract must
also include conditions for vehicle returns and penalties in case of delayed returns or premature
terminations. Always read the contract carefully to know what your obligations and rights are.
What happens if your rental car gets a scratch or dent?
If you have a scratch or dent to the rental car, notify the rental company immediately. The
repair cost and responsibility depend on your rental agreement and insurance coverage. Your
liability may be covered or reduce if you choose collision damage waiver (CDW) or other
insurance. You may be responsible for the repair costs if you don't have coverage.
Can you get a refund on a rental car?
Usually cancellations within their timeline will be refunded but may incur fees. Early returns
may not relate to a full refund, as many rental companies do not distribute partial rental days.
What are the disadvantages of a car rental?
The disadvantages of a Vehicle Rental are:
- Higher price. Particularly during tourist peak seasons than those of public transport, the
type of car, and the rental duration. - Strict terms. Car rental companies typically have strict terms. They require that you
return the vehicle in an acceptable condition and with no damages incurred. Fines and
charges will be imposed for traffic violations, - Extra charges. Rental agencies may sometimes have hidden fees and additional costs
from excess mileage, added driver, fuel charges and insurance. - Limitations. You need to have a local license before you can drive. This includes
international driving permits and the legal driving age.
What are the risks of renting a vehicle?
The risks of renting a vehicle include against injury or accident you may face on the road.
Insurance is very important, especially when using foreign vehicles. Also, other costs like late
fees and fuel charges are observed in this case. If it is caught in a traffic breach, you will be open
to liability. Just make sure that you know the ins and outs of your rental agreement and insurance
policy beforehand to help limit these risks.
What does full to total mean when hiring a car?
Fuel policy explains how much fuel a rental car requires during pickups and dropoffs.
Examples of terms are Full to Full, Empty and Same to Same.
- Full to Full means that you have to return your vehicle with a full tank
- Full to Empty fuel terms, you return your vehicle with an empty fuel tank.