FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS | Belize Car Rental
- Do not need an International Driving Permit?
Obtaining an International Driving Permit is not necessary in this former British colony where English remains the official language. Your regular driver’s license will do just fine.
- Are there unpaved roads?
While Belize does have a few paved highways, it is also full of dirt roads. If you want to check out places like the Caracol Mayan Site or Mystic River Resort, you’ll be going off the paved roads.
- How do I choose the right car?
Not every car can handle the variety of terrain in Belize. For serious exploration, a 4WD vehicle can be invaluable and give you peace of mind.
- Should I consider opting for the collision waiver?
It’s possible that your credit card offers collision insurance on rental cars as a benefit. But before you decline the CDW, be sure to read the fine print. Many policies will void insurance on rental cars in certain circumstances, such as driving on unpaved roads.
- Liability insurance, is it included in the rental rate?
Liability insurance is mandatory in Belize, and liability coverage is almost always included in the rental rate.
- Do I pay for the rental in Belize dollars?
You may have the option to pay for the rental in U.S. dollars, but this option will cost you more in the long run. Pay in the local currency to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion fees. If you opt to pay in U.S. dollars, the rental car company converts the purchase amount from the local currency on your behalf. But this process is entirely unnecessary, since your credit card company will process the transaction in either currency, or you will pay through the nose for the non-convenience.
- Do I inspect the rental car before you drive away?
While it’s tempting to head straight for the beach upon picking up your vehicle, make sure to inspect the car extra carefully for any dings, dents or scratches on the surface. Take photos of every inch of the car. Otherwise, you could end up paying for those imperfections if you don’t document them before you leave.
- What is the Age Limitation for Car Rental in Belize?
All drivers must be over the age of 25 yrs. Maximum rental age limit is 75 yrs. Drivers between the ages of 21 yrs - 24 yrs may be allowed to drive but only with double the standard security deposit.
- What is the Belize Driving Requirements?
Driver's License: Required (U.S. license accepted) IDP: International Driving Permit required if you do not have a license. Age Requirement: 18 to legally rent or drive a car in Belize.
- Do I need 4-wheel drive in Belize?
If you are going to the Mountain Pine Ridge area of the Cayo District, or to the Gallon Jug or Lamanai areas, you will certainly need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. However, if you're just visiting the major towns and cities of San Ignacio, Placencia, Corozal, or Punta Gorda, you'll probably be fine in a standard sedan.
- What is the speed limit in Belize?
Belizeans drive on the right side of the road; the speed limit is 55 miles per hour along the highways and 25-40 miles per hour through the villages and towns.
- Do you have to have Belize travel insurance?
Do I need a Travel Health Insurance when travelling to Belize? Effective July 12, 2022, all Foreign Tourists entering Belize will not be required to purchase travel health insurance from a local insurance company. Purchase of the Belize Travel Health Insurance is now optional but encouraged.
- Can you pump your own gas?
One thing to note that in Belize, a gas station attendant has to pump the gas for you. They also prefer you pay in cash, but most big gas stations accept credit cards. Also, remember that Belize is a tiny country. So when you are driving from one place to another in Belize, you'll likely be doing it in under 5 hours.
- Is it safe to drive at night in Belize?
Driving at night isn't recommended in Belize. Potholes are difficult to see after dark, which won't do your rental any favors. Also, Belize uses speed bumps, often unmarked, for speed control, and hitting one of those at speed is very dangerous.
- Is drinking and driving legal in Belize?
Belize has a lower drinking age than many other countries, so visitors may be tempted to overindulge. But it's important to remember that Belize also has strict laws against drinking and driving, and public intoxication. If you're caught driving under the influence, you could face serious consequences.
- Who is responsible for road safety in Belize?
The Belize Department of Transportation is responsible for road safety. Roads in Belize vary from two-lane paved roads to dirt or gravel tracks.
- Can I rent a car with non-US driver's license?
Nearly all car rental agencies will have no problem renting to someone with an international driver's license. Check the website of the rental agency you plan to use to see specific requirements and documentation. Most car-sharing services will also accept your foreign license.
- Is it safe to drive from Belize City to San Ignacio?
Driving from Belize City to San Ignacio is a very easy drive. There are some precautionary factors, however regarding your safety etc. I would not say that is a key factor. The main things are the speed bumps and pedestrians that ride/ walk on the road in the dark.
- Is it easy to drive around Belize?
Second, Belize is very much a rural country; except in Belize City, and to a certain degree in larger towns like Belmopan, San Ignacio, and Dangriga, traffic is pretty much nonexistent, so even though the condition of the roads isn't the best, the driving just isn't very stressful at all.
- How many highways do Belize have?
There are four main highways in inland Belize. Two of the four start in Belize City and you will see little road markers with a number on them.
- What is the speed limit in Belize?
Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Wear seatbelts - drivers and passengers. Observe speed limits: 55 mph on highways and 25 mph in cities and towns. You can make a CAUTIOUS right-hand turn on a red light.
