Trinidad and Tobago

Driving permit

To drive in Trinidad and Tobago, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver’s licence
• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You’re 3 times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Trinidad and Tobago than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads
• local driving practices
• traffic congestion

High-speed accidents, particularly along the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway, often result in deaths.

Conditions on rural and mountain roads are particularly hazardous.

The road from Port of Spain to the popular Maracas beach area is dangerous. Road users often drive in a dangerous manner. The road is also:

• narrow and windy
• poorly maintained
• subject to landslides
• busy

There have been fatal accidents caused by erratic driving to and from Piarco International Airport.

Security risks along several routes increase, especially at night. See Safety

It’s against the law to use mobile phones while driving, except in ‘hands-free’ or Bluetooth mode.

Police conduct random breath tests. They can also stop traffic if they suspect a person is driving under the influence of alcohol.

If you plan to drive:

• check you have adequate insurance
• carry vehicle insurance papers
• check local traffic laws and practices
• don’t drive at night, unless on major highways

Late at night and in early morning, avoid travelling:

• outside major populated areas
• to and from the Piarco International Airport

More information:

Motorcycles

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Private taxis are the safest taxi option. They’re available at airports and hotels.

Private taxis are unmetered and unmarked. You can identify them by vehicle registration plates beginning with ‘H’.

Some vehicles have ‘P’ (private) registration plates. These vehicles illegally offer informal taxi services.

Use the Airport Taxi Drivers’ Cooperative services at the airport.

Crimes including rape, assault, robbery and theft have taken place in private cars and maxi taxis. See Safety

Public transport

Avoid public transport due to safety concerns. See Safety

Sea travel

Cruise vessels stop in Trinidad and Tobago. 

An inter-island ferry operates between Trinidad and Tobago. Cancellations can happen with little or no notice. Check the status of your travel with the Port Authority.

A water taxi operates between Port of Spain and San Fernando.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Trinidad and Tobago’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government