Driving in Martinique is much like driving in mainland France: same rules, same road signs, and you drive on the right. A few local specifics still make the difference between a relaxed drive and a lost hour. Here is what we explain to our customers every day.
The rules: French rules
- Drive on the right, as in mainland France;
- Licence — a valid European Union licence is enough. With a licence issued elsewhere and not written in French, the rules generally require an international driving permit or an official translation: check the rule for your country;
- Age — we rent from age 18 with one year of driving experience; a surcharge applies under 23 or with less than 3 years' experience (see young driver car rental);
- Speed limits — 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on two-way roads without a central divider (since 1 July 2018); on the A1 motorway and expressways, follow the signs;
- Rain — limits drop: 100 km/h on dual carriageways, 80 km/h on other roads outside built-up areas;
- Alcohol — 0.5 g/l of blood at most, 0.2 g/l for probationary licences;
- Phone — holding it while driving is banned, as are earpieces and headphones: €135 and 3 points;
- Seat belts — compulsory front and back;
- Checks — speed cameras and mobile checks are frequent.
The roads: short distances, variable times
There are no tolls in Martinique: the only motorway, the A1, links the airport to Fort-de-France free of charge over about 7 km. Distances are short, but drive times vary a lot with the terrain and traffic. From the airport, outside rush hours, allow 20 to 30 minutes to Fort-de-France, 50 minutes to an hour to Sainte-Anne, and an hour to an hour and a quarter to Saint-Pierre.
The north needs the most care: the Route de la Trace crosses the mountains over 29 km, the road to Grand'Rivière is very steep, and access to Anse Couleuvre is tricky for large vehicles. Nothing a small car can't handle; an automatic or an SUV simply makes the climbs more comfortable. Details on our Saint-Pierre and the north page.
Traffic jams
The Le Lamentin – Fort-de-France road is the busiest on the island: it jams at rush hours, in the morning and late afternoon. Allow a margin, especially on the day of your flight, when you return the car at the airport. From Les Trois-Îlets, the Anse Mitan ferry takes you to Fort-de-France without using the road.
Fuel
In Martinique, maximum fuel prices are set and revised every month by the prefect. Your car is handed over with a full tank: return it full, otherwise fuel and a service charge are billed (article 6 of our terms and conditions).
Parking
In central Fort-de-France, parking meters don't take cash: pay by card or with the app, and read the rules displayed, they have changed since 2025. At the busiest beaches, arrive early at weekends: a small car is easier to park.
Rain, the unexpected, accidents
During the rainy season, from July to October, showers are frequent and heavy: slow down, the road gets slippery. After an accident, fill in a joint accident report without commenting on liability, and let us know within 24 hours on +596 696 61 70 70 (article 7.4 of our terms and conditions).
Frequently asked questions
Is my driving licence valid in Martinique?
Martinique is part of France: a valid licence from any European Union country is enough. For other licences, see the next question.
Do I need an international driving permit in Martinique?
Not with a European Union licence. With a licence issued elsewhere and not written in French, the rules generally require an international driving permit or an official translation: check the rule for your country.
What is the speed limit in Martinique?
50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h on two-way roads without a central divider. On the A1 motorway and expressways, follow the signs.
Are there toll roads in Martinique?
No, none: the A1 motorway between the airport and Fort-de-France is free.
Do I need a 4x4 to drive in Martinique?
No: no road requires a special vehicle, you just need to accept driving slowly in the north. An SUV or an automatic adds comfort on the climbs.
What should I do after an accident in a rental car?
Fill in a joint accident report without commenting on liability, and let us know within 24 hours on +596 696 61 70 70.