Driving in Aruba

Drive on the right and read the junction signs

Traffic keeps right in Aruba. Official visitor guidance says vehicles already on a roundabout have priority, traffic from the right has priority at an unsigned crossing, and a red signal does not permit a right turn. Signs and markings at the actual junction remain authoritative.

Use the route as a planning aid, then allow for traffic, temporary controls and local diversions. Never treat the calculated line or time as proof that a street is open or that stopping is permitted.

Sources: [1][3]

Keep the vehicle off protected beaches and dunes

Aruba's visitor code prohibits driving or parking on beaches and dunes and directs drivers on the rugged north coast to stay on the main dirt roads. Oranjestad parking uses marked spaces, including restricted yellow-marked spaces.

Check the rental agreement before any unsealed-road journey. A routable track is not evidence that a hired vehicle is allowed or suitable there, and environmental restrictions override map suggestions.

Sources: [3][2][6]

Separate road access from rental permission

For any displayed road or dirt track, use the hire agreement—not map coverage—to decide whether the vehicle is insured and suitable. Ask the supplier about every driver, the exact north-coast or unsealed-road plan, tyre and underbody exclusions, recovery and where assistance stops.

Choose a different vehicle or a guided transfer when the intended surface falls outside the contract. Environmental restrictions and the operator's vehicle limits remain controlling even when the route engine can draw a line to the location.

Sources: [2][3][1]

Finish the journey at a legal parking position

A destination pin in Oranjestad or at a beach does not identify a legal stopping place. Follow the marked parking system, keep out of yellow permit spaces and off sidewalks, bridges, beaches and dunes, then complete the final approach on foot where permitted.

Read the current sign at the space rather than copying a parking rule from another district. If access is controlled or the road becomes unsuitable, turn back at a safe legal point instead of creating a new track.

Sources: [3][1]

Recheck exposed roads when the weather changes

Check current local warnings before an exposed road and follow official instructions during flooding, strong wind or tropical weather. Heat, congestion and a diversion can make the practical journey materially different from the initial estimate.

Use the emergency number for an immediate incident, but postpone the road leg when official advice or conditions have removed a safe way through. Give the road, direction and nearest identifiable place when asking for help.

Sources: [1][4][5]

Before driving in Aruba

• Carry the accepted original licence and rental documents, and confirm all authorised drivers and vehicle restrictions.
• Check current local traffic and weather information; follow authority instructions during tropical weather or flooding.
• Keep to designated roads and parking, particularly near beaches, dunes and the rugged north coast.
• Use 911 for the general emergency service; official visitor information separately lists police on 100.

Sources: [4][3][5][6]