Are there any special requirements for driving or hiring a car in Dominican Republic?
Holidays to the Dominican Republic are particularly popular in the peak summer months of July and August, however it's fast becoming a very popular winter destination, between December and February, temperatures a lot lower than summer high's making it a great time to visit as the climate is much more temperate. Whilst all-inlcusive holidays to the Dominican Republic are the most popular choice for visitrs, that shouldn't stop you renting a car to see what more the island has to offer beyond the confines of the hotel complex. If you are venturing out onto the roads however, it's wise to understand local laws and rules of the road in the Dominican Republic. For example, the drink driving limit in Dominican Republic is just 30mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, that's 0.03%, less than half of the UK's 0.08%, meaning even the smallest of drinks is likely to put you over the limit. Traffic police do carry out random road side tests and tourists in rental cars are often targetted, so our advice is that if you're driving in the Dominican Republic, it's best not to drink at all, and even be mindful the day / night before if you are planning to drive the next day as alcohol will remain in your system.
But don't let that put you off, there is so much to see and do once you get out of the resorts and rental cars can be arranged from Punta Cana and Puerta Plata and obviously from Punta Cana Airport. Prices are competitive and all the major international rental agents are well represented here including Avis, Alamo, Thirfty and Sixt. Stay safe on the roads in Dominican Republic with out Drive Smart Guide to Dominican Republic. We recommend that you avoid driving at night unless absolutely necessary, particularly on rural roads as animals tend to venture onto the highways and pose a significant risk.
