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Life, Safety & Digital Living
Getting Around – Driving, Licensing, Insurance & Public Transport
Principle: pick one primary mode for your first 90 days (own car • long-term hire • coach/taxis), then
build safety and insurance around it.
A. Driving & Licensing (quick view)
Topic What it means Where to handle Notes to selfForeign
licence useYou may drive for a limited period on
a valid foreign licence if visiting; if
settling, convert/obtain a Jamaican
licence.Island Traffic Authority
(ITA) depots for testing; TAJ
for licence issue/renewal.Time limits &
requirements
update—verify before
arrival.
Convert /
obtain JA
licenceRoad Code test + practical (as
required); TRN; ID; photos/medical
as requested.ITA (tests) → TAJ (licence). Book early; bring originals + copies.Buy vs import
a carImport needs Trade Board permit +
Customs clearance; local purchase
is faster but do a lien check.Trade Board • Customs •
Your bank/attorney.Compare total cost
(duty, parts,
insurance).Insurance Thirdcomprehensive strongly advised.-party is the legal minimum; Insurers or brokers.Ask about no-claims
transfer and dash-
cam discounts.B. Ownership “no-surprises” checklist
- Independent pre-purchase inspection (engine, suspension, electricals, AC).
- Lien/title check; VIN/chassis match.
- Insurance quote before paying; confirm drivers named.
- Service history + spare key.
- Fit alarm/immobiliser, GPS tracker, dash-cam; never leave valuables visible.
C. Public Transport & Hired Vehicles
Mode Best use Safety tips
JUTC / municipal buses
(metro) Daily commuting corridors^Use official stops; avoid isolated late-night
waits.
Knutsford Express / other
coachesInter-parish trips Comfortable, reliable, pre-book seats;
luggage handled.Route taxis (red plate) Short town-to-town hopsAgree fare first; sit in back; share live location
with family.Chartered taxi / PPV Airport runs, late nights, luggage Use known operators; request a vehicle. coveredRide-hail apps (metro) Quick errands Confirm driver and plate inside app before
boarding.