16 Tips on Driving in the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are all magical island destinations to vacation at! The USVI are great for US citizens because we don’t need a passport to visit them. They offer beauty, relaxation, adventure and more!

Did you know in the USVI you drive on the left side of the road? Driving is still very safe, many tourists rent cars on vacation here. 

I have gone on multiple vacations to the USVI and have always rented a car. Let me tell you, it’s not as bad as you think! You can do it, you will get used to “keeping left” faster than you think. Here are my tips on driving in the USVI!

Driving tips:

• Just keep left! The most important thing to remember. 
• Whichever island you visit, a Jeep is the best vehicle to rent! Most roads are pretty bumpy, some you wouldn’t want to take a small car on. Other cars are doable (one year I rented an old, tiny Ford Focus because it’s all that was available) you just have to be careful. The Jeep will be sure to get you up and down all the winding island roads! 
• The driver’s side is still on the left side of the car (like in the states) at least I have never seen otherwise. 
• Driving in the USVI is not aggressive like it can be on other island destinations. 
• The roads are often mountainous, especially on St. John so driving is pretty slow overall. 
• Expect switchback style roads, just take the turns nice and easy you will be fine. 
• If someone is tailgating you it’s probably a local who knows the roads better, just pull over and let them go by.
• The locals are nice, they know there are tourists around.

Driving tips:

• Traffic circles are probably the most intimidating part of keeping left. I like to stay alert and follow the car in front of me for as long as I can! If nobody is around, even better you have nothing to worry about. 
• Always lock your car when you aren’t in it. 
• Gas stations can be far and few between, figure out where they are located so you know where to go when it’s time to fill up. 
• Remember there are other tourists who also need to be reminded to keep left! Always be aware of other drivers to avoid car accidents.  
• Make sure you get insurance on your rental if your own personal car insurance doesn’t cover it, you never know what can happen.
• If you have any issues with your rental, either bring it by the shop you rented from or call them to share the issue asap. 
• Don’t get intimidated! You can do it. 
• Have fun!! Driving on the left feels funny at first but you will be used to it in no time feeling like you’ve been driving on the islands your entire life.

Don’t be nervous:

I cannot recommend renting a Jeep during your vacation to the USVI more! It is totally worth the money, you will see and experience so much more the USVI offers than just hanging out at your hotel/resort and taking a taxi around here and there. Having your own rental gives you the freedom and opportunity to explore!  

Don’t be nervous, if you are a confident driver you can do it! I have experienced different island-style driving all over the world and believe me, the USVI is not bad at all. 

I hope this post has given you the confidence to rent a car on your trip to the USVI and/or helped answer your questions! If you have any others please just ask in the comments below. 

Have fun!! Don’t forget, keep left! You will be driving like an island local in no time!