Which side of the road does Aruba drive on?
Aruba drives on the right-hand side of the road, the same as the United States and most of mainland Europe. Rental cars are left-hand drive, so the setup will feel familiar to North American and continental European visitors.
Can Americans drive in Aruba with a US license?
Yes. A valid US driver's license is accepted as-is for tourist rentals in Aruba. No International Driving Permit is needed. The same goes for Canadian, UK and EU licenses.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Aruba?
Not usually. A valid home-country license covers short visits. If your license is not in English, Dutch or Spanish, carrying an IDP is a sensible backup. Always confirm the exact document requirements on the vehicle page before you reserve.
How old do I have to be to rent a car in Aruba?
Most rental companies in Aruba rent to drivers aged 21 and over. SUVs, Jeeps and UTVs often carry a higher minimum of 23 or 25, and younger drivers may pay a small surcharge. The minimum age and any surcharge are listed on each Customs Breeze vehicle page.
Is driving in Aruba difficult?
No. It is one of the easiest islands in the Caribbean to drive. Right-side driving, flat terrain, short distances, good pavement on all main routes, and signage in Dutch and English. The only learning curve is the roundabouts, and the only rough roads are the ones you choose to take.
Do I need a 4x4 or Jeep in Aruba?
Not for most of a trip. The west coast beaches, resorts, Oranjestad and the main ring road are all smoothly paved, so a compact or sedan is fine. You only need a 4x4 or UTV for Arikok National Park and the rough north-coast tracks to the Natural Pool and Natural Bridge.
What are the speed limits in Aruba?
Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour. Expect about 40 km/h in built-up areas, 60 km/h on connecting roads, and up to 80 km/h on the main ring road. The island is about 20 miles long, so nothing is far.
Is parking free in Aruba?
Mostly, yes. Resorts, hotels and the main public beaches all have free lots. Downtown Oranjestad has metered street parking on weekdays, with paid lots near the marina. The real constraint is space at popular beaches, so arrive early rather than budget extra.
How do roundabouts work in Aruba?
Traffic already inside the roundabout has the right of way. Yield on entry, signal when you exit, and if you miss your exit just go around again. The ring road uses them heavily, so you will be an expert by day two.
Can I drink and drive in Aruba?
No. Aruba enforces drunk-driving laws, and penalties include fines and worse. If the plan involves beach bars, book a driver or agree on a designated driver before the first round.
Can I drive at night in Aruba?
Yes, and it is generally safe. Resort areas and the ring road are lit; country roads are dark, so use high beams and watch for pedestrians, cyclists and animals. If you have just landed after a long flight, consider a transfer for night one and pick the car up fresh.
Does Google Maps work in Aruba?
Yes, Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze all work well on the paved network. Download an offline map before heading into Arikok or along the north coast, where mobile signal gets patchy and the tracks are unnamed.
How much does gas cost in Aruba, and how do I pay?
Fuel is sold by the liter and costs noticeably more than in the mainland US. Stations around Oranjestad, Santa Cruz and San Nicolas usually have attendants who pump for you, and most take cards. Return the car with the fuel level your contract specifies.
Are there tolls in Aruba?
No. There are no toll roads anywhere on the island. Your only driving costs are fuel, parking meters downtown, and the entry fee if you take a 4x4 into Arikok National Park.
What should I do if I have an accident in an Aruba rental car?
Do not move the vehicles. Call the police on 911 and then your rental company, photograph the scene and both cars, and exchange details. Island insurers want a police report, and moving the cars first can complicate the claim.
Can I pick up my rental car at Queen Beatrix Airport (AUA)?
Many Aruba rental companies offer airport pickup or delivery to Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), as well as hotel and resort delivery. Pickup and delivery options vary by company and are noted on each vehicle's page.
Do rental cars in Aruba come with insurance?
Basic coverage terms vary by company, and each vehicle page states what is included, what the deductible is, and what optional coverage costs. Check whether your credit card or travel insurance already covers rental cars on the island before paying for overlap.
How do I pay, and is my card charged online?
Customs Breeze connects you directly with vetted local rental companies. There are no booking middlemen and your card is not charged on the platform. You reserve a car here and pay the rental company on pickup, following their deposit and payment terms.
Easiest day · any car
