Does Avis require an IDP in Bahamas?
Avis in Bahamas: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP where the national licence is not in the Roman alphabet or where local law requires it. Long-established global brand operating in 165+ countries.
The Bahamas drive on the left despite their proximity to the US; visitors can use a valid foreign licence for short stays, with an IDP advised for non-Latin scripts.
In Bahamas specifically, bahamas lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Avis still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Nassau and Freeport desks accept many foreign licences; an IDP helps.
Avis runs a global network; at its Bahamas desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Bahamas drives on the left, uses the BSD, and sets a minimum driving age of 18; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.
What to bring to the Avis counter in Bahamas
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the BSD deposit; Bahamas drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Bahamas Avis renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- Many imported left-hand-drive cars — take care overtaking.
- 0.08% alcohol limit.
- Seatbelts mandatory.