How do I get an international driving license in Guyana?

There is no such thing as an International Driving license. The document being used by foreign drivers to drive a motor vehicle in another foreign country is an “International Driving Permit (IDP)” as per convention on road traffic.

To get an IDP, you only need to fill out the application form after you’ve clicked the “Start My Application” button. Then attach documents such as a copy of your valid driver’s license and a passport-sized photo. Lastly, you will need to pay your IDP fee.

Can you drive with a US license in Guyana?

As mentioned, foreign drivers, including U.S. citizens can drive in the country as long as an IDP is present.

Our IDP is recognized in 165+ countries including the following:

• Canada
• Congo
• France
• Iceland
• Italy
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Peru
• Switzerland
• Argentina
• Belgium
• Cambodia
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cuba
• Denmark
• Germany
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Ireland
• Israel
• Japan
• Malaysia
• Moldova
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Portugal
• Romania
• Spain
• Taiwan
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
• Uruguay
• Vietnam
• Zimbabwe

Do I need an international driver's license to drive in Guyana?

Although it is not required to have an International Driver’s Permit in the country; it is highly recommended, whether your driver’s license is in English or not.

Guyana is truly a hidden gem in South America as you’ll witness nature’s glories and treasures. Situated between Venezuela, Brazil, and Suriname, Guyana is a coastal region that is your gateway to paradise. Explore different cities that will lead you to mountain ranges, rainforests, and savannas.

Start your adventure in the country’s capital, Georgetown, and make your way into other hubs. You will have the first glimpse of Dutch history’s remnants and virgin rainforests in the country’s capital. As long as you have your International Driving Permit in Guyana, you can drive to these places. Driving to Guyana is fully packed with adventure, nature, and culture that will leave a mark on your heart and mind.

Georgetown

The ideal first stop for orientation is the capital city of Guyana, Georgetown. The town offers heritage hotels, museums, moments, and welcoming people. Two of the largest rivers, Essequibo and Demerara, both skirt the city, so you have time for relaxation. Be sure to have your International Driver’s Permit in Guyana to drive your vehicle to the capital city to the rest of the country.

There are also the best places to wind down and grab a drink. You can go to the Vintage Bar & Lounge, 704 Sports bar, and The Strip and Nightcap to get fine wine and live band performances. If you want to go shopping, you can drive to Regent Street, the main shopping avenue where you can find handicrafts and local arts. One of the entertainment venues in the city is the MovieTowne. You can look for a dining and movie experience here.

Linden

Linden is historically a bauxite-mining town. People make a quick stop here before heading to other neighboring cities because of its vantage location. With a square area of 17,040, Linden is the second largest town in Guyana. You can also drive to Wismar Market to buy local goods and Guyanese jewelry. It has several heritage spots and exciting museums, and you can also stroll through the town and see the colonial architecture.

Demerara River splits the town. That’s why Linden shares borders with Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, Demerara-Mahaica, and Mahaica-Berbice. It is ideal for you if you like large cities and busy streets. On average, the warmest months are August to October, while the rainiest months are May to June.

Shell Beach

Along the Atlantic coastline, Shell beach is the nesting ground of marine turtles. From March to August, four different species of endangered turtles come along the bay. It’s an opportunity to see one of the world’s largest reptiles, such as the leatherback turtle, along with the seaside setting on this paradise. Shell beach is one of the beaches surrounded by rainforests and mangroves.

Kaieteur Falls

This 741 feet waterfall is the world’s largest single-drop waterfall by volume, particularly during the rainy season in May to July. It even beats both Niagara and Victoria Waterfalls. The only way to get a magnificent view of the place is through the viewing platforms. If you want a complete picture of the beauty and glory of this fall, you can ride a small Cessna plane, and you can have memorable photographs of the thundering sheet of water.

Iwokrama Rainforest

One of the last four pristine rainforests in the world is Iwokrama. It covers 3,700 sq. km of central Guyana, and it is the homeland of the Makushi people. You can camp in this protected area, go for a walk in the Iwokrama walkway, and wander in the extensive trail system to discover flora and fauna. The Iwokrama’s Canopy Walk is a series of walkways 30 meters above the forest floor, connecting platforms that offer a bird’s eye view of nature.

Annai

In the North Rupuni area, you’ll find this village of Annai that stood at an altitude of 95 meters. You can spot wildlife and different bird species in the game. Rock View Lodge is your perfect base for your adventure, and it will lead you to the savannah and to the foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains. The best time to visit Annai is during the dry season, from October to March.

Driving in Guyana is safer and smoother if you know the essential road traffic rules implemented in the place.

Drunk Driving is Prohibited

In Guyana, the allowed blood alcohol content is 0.08%. Police officers can randomly do breath testing to check your alcohol content. If you violate this road traffic law, you need to face a fine of $7,500 for the first offense. For a repeat offense, you will face a 12-month cancellation of a driver’s license. In your third offense, you cannot obtain a driver’s license anymore. Drunk drivers are dangerous because they can kill many lives of road users.

Drive Below the Speed Limit

There is a maximum speed limit in Guyana, depending on your driving area. In urban areas, you can drive up to 50 km/h. Outside urban areas, the maximum speed limit is 80 km/h. While driving on highways, the maximum speed limit is 100 km/h. Always follow the set speed limit to keep all the road users safe.