Local Knowledge

Driving in Aruba

Drive on the Right

Aruba drives on the right-hand side, like the US and Europe. Overtake on the left.

Speed Limits

30 km/h in towns · 60 km/h outside · 80 km/h on highways. Signs are in km/h.

Roundabouts

Common in Aruba. Cars already in the roundabout have right of way — always yield before entering.

No Right on Red

Unlike the US, right turns on a red light are strictly prohibited. Wait for green.

Gas Stations

Attendants pump for you at most stations. Tipping is appreciated but not required. Prices are government-regulated.

Emergency Number

Dial 100 for police, or 911 for ambulance or fire. For roadside assistance, call us directly at +297 593 1982.

Blood-Alcohol Limit

Aruba's legal limit is 0.08% BAC. If you've been drinking, arrange a taxi rather than driving yourself.

Driving License

Your home license is accepted for tourists. An IDP is only required if your license isn't in Latin script.

Off-Road Areas

Arikok National Park and the north coast are 4x4 only. Regular cars are not insured for these roads — ask us.

Local Courtesy

A flash of the headlights means "go ahead." A short double-honk is a thank you. Drivers routinely stop to let others merge.

Cruise Ship Days

When ships are in port, central Oranjestad gets congested. Worth checking the schedule if you're heading downtown.

Parking

A yellow line or yellow curb means no parking, and vehicles are towed. No parking on bridges or along a continuous centre line. Oranjestad has paid bays marked in white and yellow — pay at the nearby kiosk. Most of the island is free.

Right of Way

At an intersection with no signs, traffic coming from your right has priority. When turning left, oncoming traffic goes first.

Animals on the Road

Goats, donkeys and iguanas roam freely, especially on the east side and near Arikok. They will not move for your car. Slow down and wait.

Fuel Before Arikok

There are no petrol stations inside the park. Fill up before you go in.