●Issued in as fast as 8 minutesInstant digital delivery to your inboxRecognised in 195+ countries
International Driver LicenceOfficial-format IDP booklet service
Home/Rental Companies/National/Jamaica
National · Jamaica

Does National require an IDP in Jamaica?

Recommended
Jamaica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Jamaica All National requirements
National in Jamaica
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theLeft

National in Jamaica: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

Jamaica drives on the left and lets visitors use a valid foreign licence for short stays; an IDP is advised for non-English licences.

In Jamaica specifically, jamaica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Montego Bay and Kingston desks accept English licences; an IDP helps.

National runs a global network; at its Jamaica desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Jamaica drives on the left, uses the JMD, 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 National counter in Jamaica

  • 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 JMD deposit; Jamaica drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Jamaica National renters should know

  • Drive on the left.
  • Narrow, winding roads with aggressive overtaking.
  • 0.035% alcohol limit.
  • Watch for pedestrians and goats on rural roads.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from National in Jamaica?
Jamaica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in Jamaica?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Jamaica drives on the left and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
All National countriesDriving in Jamaica