Car Rental in Scarborough (Trinidad and Tobago): A Practical Guide

Renting a car in Scarborough is the most practical way to discover the scenic coastlines and rainforests of Tobago. As the capital of the island with about 17,000 residents, Scarborough serves as a primary transit hub. Whether you arrive by ferry at the Port of Scarborough or fly into the nearby A.N.R. Robinson International Airport in Crown Point, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel without relying on local public transport. This guide provides essential details on navigating the local rental market, understanding traffic regulations, and picking up your vehicle. We cover everything from required driver documentation and age limits to the crucial differences between legal rental vehicles and private cars. With providers like DiscoverCars offering coverage in the area, you can easily secure a vehicle for your island itinerary.

L'essentiel

Driving in Trinidad and Tobago follows the left-hand traffic system. To rent a car, you must present a valid original foreign driver's license; photocopies are strictly not accepted. Tourists can drive using their foreign license alongside an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an English-language permit for up to 90 days. While the legal driving age in the country is 17 or 18, rental agencies typically require drivers to be between 21 and 25 years old. The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is set at 0.08%, and the maximum speed limit on highways is 100 km/h. A critical local detail is the license plate system: legally registered rental vehicles carry plates starting with the letter 'R'. Private vehicles start with 'P'. Avoid renting vehicles with 'P' plates, as they are not legally licensed or fully insured for commercial rental use.

Rental Prices and Booking

When planning your trip to Scarborough, booking your vehicle in advance is highly recommended to secure the best rates and availability. Verified platforms like DiscoverCars offer rental coverage in Scarborough, allowing you to compare options before arrival. While exact rates fluctuate depending on the season, booking early ensures you secure a legitimate rental vehicle. It is important to budget for potential security deposits, which are standard practice among local and international agencies. Always verify what is included in your rental agreement, such as basic collision damage waivers and mileage limits. Avoid deals that seem too cheap from unregistered local operators, and ensure your contract clearly states all terms to avoid unexpected fees upon return.

Where to Pick Up Your Car

Scarborough offers convenient pickup locations depending on how you arrive on the island. If you are arriving by sea, rental services are available directly around the Port of Scarborough ferry terminal, as well as at nearby town offices. For those flying into Tobago, the primary hub is A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB), located in Crown Point, just a short drive west of Scarborough. Many providers allow you to arrange pickup at the port and return at the airport, or vice versa, though this may require prior coordination. Be sure to confirm the exact operating hours of your chosen pickup point, as independent local desks in the city proper may have different schedules compared to the airport counters.

Important Tips for Island Travel

Exploring Tobago by car is highly rewarding, but there are specific rules you must follow if you plan to travel between islands. Standard rental contracts generally prohibit inter-island transit. If you wish to transport your rental car between Trinidad and Tobago on the Sea Bridge ferry, you must obtain prior written permission from your rental provider. Taking a vehicle on the ferry without this explicit authorization will void your insurance and violate your rental agreement. Additionally, always keep your original physical driver's license with you while driving, as local authorities do not accept photocopies during routine checks. Stick to paved roads where possible, and plan your fuel stops, as stations can be sparse in the more remote northern parts of the island.

Where to go by car

Tolls: rates vary by country and route segment — check current pricing before you go.