Per rental, not per driver
The Car Rental Levy (CRL) applies to the rental itself, not to each individual driver.
Barbados visitor driving
Do visitors need a driving permit to rent a car in Barbados?
Not anymore. The former separate Visitor Driving Permit was abolished effective 15 October 2025. You still need a valid driver’s licence, and the Barbados Revenue Authority Car Rental Levy (CRL) is handled as part of the rental process.
Quick answer
What visitors need to know before renting and driving in Barbados.
- Valid licence: You need a valid driver’s licence to rent and drive in Barbados.
- Car Rental Levy (CRL): BBD $5 per rental day, maximum BBD $35 (equivalent to 7 chargeable days). Applies per rental, not per driver.
- Visitor Driving Permit abolished effective 15 October 2025. The rental operator handles levy collection and submission under the applicable process — Click & Steer is not the tax or licensing authority.
Official source: Barbados Revenue Authority Car Rental Levy Guide and Resources.
This page explains typical rental booking steps, not legal advice. Requirements may vary by rental partner.
What changed for visitors
The former separate Visitor Driving Permit was abolished effective 15 October 2025. Visitors still need a valid driver’s licence. The official charge is the Barbados Revenue Authority Car Rental Levy (CRL): BBD $5 per rental day, up to a maximum of BBD $35 (equivalent to 7 chargeable days). The levy applies per rental, not per driver.
When you book through Click & Steer, licence and visitor details are collected during booking. Your rental operator handles levy collection and submission under the applicable process — you are not asked to complete a separate Visitor Driving Permit application before reserving. Click & Steer is not the tax or licensing authority.
New to Barbados roads? See our Driving in Barbados guide for left-side driving, roundabouts, and first-drive tips.
Additional drivers and the levy
Adding another approved driver does not mean paying another Car Rental Levy (CRL).
Additional drivers still need a licence
Each approved driver should have a valid driver’s licence available for verification.
Details captured before pickup
Click & Steer can collect additional driver details through the booking flow so the handover stays organized.
What to bring on pickup day
Have these ready for a smoother handover. You do not need to apply for a Visitor Driving Permit at pickup. The rental operator handles the Car Rental Levy (CRL) once your online booking is complete.
Flying into Grantley Adams? See what to expect at airport pickup.
Pickup day
Valid driver’s licence
Pickup day
Booking confirmation
Pickup day
Pickup or arrival details
Pickup day
Any additional driver details already submitted through the booking flow
Requirements may vary by rental partner.
How Click & Steer helps
Book with verified local partners and clear steps before you travel.
Book before arrival
Browse available rentals, complete your booking online, and arrive ready for pickup.
Clear rental steps
Licence and visitor details are captured during booking so your rental operator can process Car Rental Levy requirements.
Pickup at your location
Your rental pickup is coordinated for your requested location, including the airport, hotel, villa, or another agreed handover point.
Ready to choose a vehicle? View featured Barbados rentals or browse all vehicles. Planning beach days? See our Best West Coast beaches in Barbados. Questions? See contact.
Barbados driving permit & levy FAQs
Do visitors still need a separate Barbados driving permit?
No. The former separate Visitor Driving Permit was abolished effective 15 October 2025. You still need a valid driver’s licence. The Car Rental Levy (CRL) is handled as part of the rental process by the rental operator.
How much is the Car Rental Levy (CRL)?
The Barbados Revenue Authority Car Rental Levy (CRL) is BBD $5 per rental day, up to a maximum of BBD $35 total (equivalent to 7 chargeable days). If a rental lasts longer than 7 days, no additional levy is charged beyond BBD $35. The levy applies per rental, not per driver. The rental operator handles collection and submission; Click & Steer is not the tax authority.
Do additional drivers pay another Car Rental Levy?
No. The levy applies per rental, not per driver. Additional drivers still need to be approved and should have a valid driver’s licence available for verification.
What do I need to bring on pickup day?
Bring your valid driver’s licence, booking confirmation, pickup or arrival details, and any additional driver information already submitted through your booking. Requirements may vary by rental partner.
Does Click & Steer collect the levy during booking?
Click & Steer captures the licence and visitor details required during booking. The rental operator handles levy collection and submission under the applicable process — you do not need a separate pre-arrival office visit for a Visitor Driving Permit. Click & Steer is not the tax or licensing authority.
Can I book before I arrive in Barbados?
Yes. You can browse available rentals, complete your booking online, and arrive ready for pickup. See featured rentals on our Barbados car rental page or browse all vehicles.
Plan your Barbados rental
Browse featured rentals or browse all vehicles, then complete your booking before you arrive.