Driving in Aruba: Everything You Need to Know

Tex Cars & Leasing · ~5 min read

Aruba is a small, flat island, about 32 km (20 miles) end to end, which makes it one of the easiest places in the Caribbean to explore by car. With your own wheels you can reach quiet beaches, the national park and hidden coves that tours simply skip. Here's everything you need to know before you drive.

Do I need a special license?

No. Your valid national driver's license (or an International Driving Permit) is accepted for tourists. Drivers usually need to be at least 21, and some categories may carry a small young-driver consideration, so we'll confirm the exact requirements when you book.

Which side of the road?

Aruba drives on the right-hand side, like the US and continental Europe. Roads are generally in good condition around Oranjestad and the hotel strip; some routes into Arikok National Park and the north coast are unpaved, where an SUV or 4x4 is the comfortable choice.

Speed, signs & seatbelts

• Speed limits are in km/h, usually 40 to 60 in town and up to 80 on the open road.
• Seatbelts are mandatory; hand-held phone use while driving is not allowed.
• Roundabouts are common, and traffic already on the roundabout has priority.

Fuel & parking

Petrol stations are easy to find around Oranjestad, Noord and San Nicolas. Parking at beaches and attractions is mostly free; in town, use the marked lots. We hand every car over fueled and ready so you can drive straight off.

Staying safe

Aruba is one of the safer Caribbean islands to drive, but a few habits help: never leave valuables visible in a parked car, watch for free-roaming goats and donkeys on rural roads, and carry water if you head into Arikok. Sudden rain can make dirt roads slippery.

Renting the easy way

With Tex Cars & Leasing you skip the airport queues entirely. We deliver the car to your hotel, the airport or your door, anywhere in Aruba, and pick it back up when you're done. Fair rates, no surprises. Tell us your dates and the car you want on WhatsApp and you're set.