Belize Driving License: Valid In America?

Driving in Belize is an adventure, and while it may be similar to driving in the US, there are some key differences to be aware of. From road conditions to local driving practices, here's what you need to know about navigating this beautiful Central American country. First and foremost, can you use your Belize driving license in America? The answer is no. You must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a US driver's license to drive in the US as a visitor. Now, let's explore what it's like to drive in Belize.

Driving in Belize with a US license

If you're planning to drive in Belize with a US license, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, US driver's licenses are accepted in Belize, so you won't need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) unless you don't have a license. However, it's important to note that you must be at least 18 years old to drive in Belize and you must have your original driver's license with you at all times.

Driving Conditions in Belize

Belize has one of the lowest population densities in the world, which means you'll be able to enjoy beautiful nature and wildlife during your drive. However, this also means that navigating backcountry roads can be challenging for tourists. While many highways in Belize have been repaved recently, some city streets, especially in Belize City, can be difficult to navigate due to their maze-like structure and narrow, crowded streets. It's recommended to avoid driving in Belize City unless necessary.

Rules of the Road in Belize

• Drive on the right side of the road, just like in the US.
• Right-hand turns are allowed at red lights, but use caution.
• For left-hand turns, use your turn signal and wait on the right-hand shoulder until traffic is clear in both directions.
• Seat belts are required for drivers and front-seat passengers, but not for riders in the rear.
• The speed limit on highways is typically 55 mph, while in towns and cities, it drops to 25-40 mph.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is a hands-free device.
• The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in Belize is 80mg.
• Car seats are not required by law, but it is always recommended to use them for children's safety.
• There is only one toll road in Belize, when accessing Orange Walk Town from Belize City, with a rate of under 38 cents.
• Unleaded gas is widely available but expensive, costing around $5-7 per gallon.
• Police checkpoints are common, and officers will ask to see your driver's license and check your vehicle's windshield sticker.
• In case of an emergency, call 911 for the police, fire, or ambulance.

Additional Tips for Driving in Belize

• Distances and speed limits are displayed in miles, not kilometers.
• Don't worry too much about police checkpoints; just be prepared to show your rental agreement and driver's license.
• Be mindful of "sleeping policemen," which are speed bumps commonly found when entering towns or villages.
• It is strongly advised not to drive at night due to reduced visibility, loose animals, and the difficulty in spotting potholes and speed bumps.
• Always be cautious of pedestrians, bicyclists, and farm equipment, especially in rural areas.
• Renting a 4WD vehicle is recommended if you plan to drive on unpaved roads or during the rainy season.
• When renting a car, consider factors such as road clearance, air bags, and safety features, as well as the cost of gas and rental insurance.

International driving permits in Belize

In Belize, you can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) and, often, a licence from your country of origin. However, you will eventually need a Belizean driver's licence. Most countries' licences are accepted in Belize, as is the international licence.

To obtain an IDP from Belize, you can apply via the website of the national IDP provider. An IDP is a translation of your national driving licence, allowing you to drive in foreign countries. You must carry your IDP and your national licence with you at all times.

The IDP is valid for one to three years and is recognised in over 150 countries. It is required by car rental agencies worldwide and you must be 18 or over to apply. The IDP contains your name, photo and driver information in 12 languages.

In addition to your IDP, you must carry your home country driver's licence at all times when driving in Belize.

Driving in Belize

Most rules of the road in Belize are similar to those in the US. However, there are a few key differences to be aware of:

• The speed limit is 55mph on highways and 25-40mph in towns and cities.
• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless it is a hands-free device.
• The blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.
• Drivers must use their turn signal and wait on the right-hand shoulder of the road until traffic going both ways is clear before making a left-hand turn on the highway.
• Drivers are allowed to make a right-hand turn at a red light, but they should do so with caution.
• There are police checkpoints throughout the country, where officers will ask to see your driver's licence and check your vehicle's registration and insurance.

Driving requirements in Belize

Driving in Belize can be challenging, especially for tourists navigating the backcountry roads. While many highways in Belize have been repaved in recent years, some city streets can be difficult to navigate due to their maze-like structure, narrow alleys, and heavy traffic of bikers and pedestrians. Here are some essential driving requirements and tips to keep in mind when driving in Belize:

Driving Requirements:

• Driver's License: Visitors driving in Belize are required to have a valid driver's license. A US driver's license is accepted in Belize. If you don't have a license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
• Age Requirement: To legally rent or drive a vehicle in Belize, you must be 18 years or older.
• Registration: Registration of the vehicle is mandatory.
• Insurance: Motor vehicle insurance is mandatory in Belize. It is the driver's responsibility to ensure the vehicle has valid insurance and registration.
• Right-hand Turns: Right turns on red lights are allowed, but use caution before turning.
• Left-hand Turns: For left turns on highways, use the turn signal and wait on the right shoulder until traffic is clear in both directions.
• Seat Belts: The use of seat belts is mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers.
• Speed Limits: The speed limit on highways is 55 mph, and it drops to 25-40 mph in towns and cities. Be cautious of pedestrians in both rural and populated areas.
• Cell Phone Usage: It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is a hands-free device.
• Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit in Belize is 80mg.
• Car Seats: Car seats are not required by law in Belize.
• Toll Roads: The only toll bridge is when accessing Orange Walk Town from Belize City, with a rate of under 38 cents.
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline is widely available, with prices around $5.06 per gallon. Premium gasoline is priced at $5.96, and diesel is $4.81 per gallon.
• Checkpoints: Police checkpoints are common, and officers will ask for your driver's license and check the vehicle's windshield license sticker.
• Penalties: On-the-spot fines do not exist in Belize. Instead, you will receive a penalty notice from the police officer, outlining the payment process for any violations.
• Emergencies: In case of an emergency, call 911 for the police, fire department, or ambulance.

Driving Tips:

• Driving at night is not recommended due to low visibility and the presence of wildlife on the roads.
• Be cautious when passing stopped buses, as people may suddenly cross the road.
• Always be prepared with basic supplies, including water, a flashlight, and a cell phone.
• Do not leave valuables in your car, and park in secure or well-lit areas, especially in Belize City.
• Avoid picking up hitchhikers, and be aware of Belize's strict drug and gun laws.
• Keep your vehicle's registration and insurance up to date, as failure to display a valid insurance sticker is an arrestable offence.
• Be cautious of speed bumps, commonly known as "Sleeping Policemen," when entering towns or villages.
• Familiarize yourself with unusual driving practices, such as the local practice of signalling right and pulling to the right when turning left across traffic.
• When renting a car, check the vehicle's mileage, tires, and ask about breakdown assistance.
• Consider purchasing Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage, as it may not be covered by your credit card provider.

Road conditions in Belize

The Northern Highway, also known as the Phillip Goldson Highway, is an 85-mile good-quality two-lane blacktop road from Belize City to Corozal Town and then a few miles to the Mexican border at Chetumal. This road is generally in good condition, with only a few speed bumps and slow-moving trucks in the Orange Walk Town area during the sugar cane harvest season. The Western Highway, or George Price Highway, is a 77-mile road that starts at the southern exit of Belize City and passes through Hattieville, Belmopan, and San Ignacio before reaching the Guatemala border. This highway is also in good condition, with some recently resurfaced sections, but it has a high concentration of speed bumps.

The Hummingbird Highway, stretching from the Western Highway at Belmopan to Dangriga, is considered one of the best roads in Central America after being resurfaced in 2018. However, the Manatee Highway, or the "Shortcut," which connects the village of La Democracia to the Stann Creek Valley Road, is mostly gravel and washboarded in places, making it challenging to drive on.

The Southern Highway, from Dangriga to the Guatemala border at Jalacte, is now completely paved and in good condition. On the other hand, the roads and streets of Belize City are confusing, with many narrow, one-way alleys and a lack of signage.

Overall, while some roads in Belize are in good condition, others can be quite challenging due to poor maintenance, speed bumps, potholes, and a lack of signage or lane markings. Driving at night is particularly hazardous due to pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the roads, as well as poor lighting and signage.

Driving in Belize's cities

Driving in Belize is on the right-hand side of the road. The speed limit in Belize is 55 mph (88 km/h) on highways and 25 mph (40 km/h) in cities and villages. However, in Belize City, the speed limit is 25 mph.

When turning left on a Belize highway, drivers must use their turn signal and wait on the right-hand shoulder of the road until traffic going both ways is entirely clear. This is something to be aware of when driving in Belize's cities, as it is different from other countries.

Belize City is probably the most stressful area to drive through, with dense traffic and narrow streets. Other towns and cities such as Placencia and Hopkins are much quieter, although San Ignacio has narrow streets and lots of pedestrians.

There are plenty of speed bumps in Belize's cities and towns, also known as 'sleeping policemen'. These are often found when entering a town or village and can be hard to spot, especially at night.

It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Belize unless it is a hands-free device.

Belize has a BAC limit of 80mg and drivers must be aware of pedestrians at all times, especially when driving at night due to low visibility.

Driving in Belize – General Tips

When renting a car in Belize, a passport, a regular driver's license, and a credit card for the deposit are usually required. Liability insurance is mandatory and must be purchased separately or as part of a full package.

An international driver's license is not required in Belize, and most countries' licenses are accepted. However, drivers must be at least 18 years old and have their original license.

Unleaded gas is widely available in Belize, at about US $7.0 a gallon (BZ $14.00 in 2024). All gas stations accept BZ or US dollars, and some take credit cards. At full-service stations, an attendant will pump the gas for you, and there is no need to tip.

Belize has rejected the metric system, so distances are given in miles, and gas is sold by the US gallon. Some rental cars may display speed and distance in kilometres only, which can be confusing.

Although there are some speed limit signs, there is little to no traffic law enforcement. Local drivers are not always the best, and driving after drinking is common. It is recommended to watch carefully when passing stopped buses, as people may suddenly dart out into the road.

It is important to be prepared when driving in Belize, especially on long trips. Basic supplies such as water, a flashlight, and a cell phone are essential. It is also important to note that driving at night can be dangerous due to wildlife and people on bicycles without lights.

Frequently asked questions