Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: Driving in the Turks and Caicos Islands is on the left. The terrain is flat and subject to flooding during or after storms, even light rains. Primary roads are generally good in both urban and rural areas. Secondary roads are often unpaved and contain ruts and potholes. Road signs are not prevalent, but navigating with a tourist map is possible as there are few roads on the island. Hazards such as blind intersections, road work, changes in road conditions which are unmarked, and a lack of familiarity with roundabouts and other intersections are often the main cause of problems while driving. At a roundabout, drivers are required to give way to those on their immediate right and those who enter the roundabout first. Wild donkeys, cows and horses are a common sight on the island of Grand Turk and occasionally walk into the roads, presenting a hazard to drivers, especially at night.

Temporary visitors wishing to drive in the Turks and Caicos require a valid driver's license from their country of residence or an International Driving License which is good for up to a month, after which a local license from the Department of Road Safety is required. You should observe the speed limits (20 mph in town and side roads, 40 mph on the highway). Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal, and drivers convicted of the offense may face fines, detention, or both. Use seat belts at all times as you could face possible fines. Accidents are on the increase on the Leeward Highway (Providenciales) and are often fatal. Roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown is generally not available. For emergencies, drivers may call 999 or 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Visitors should take care to ride only in marked taxis with seatbelts. Most car and motor scooter rental agencies will not rent to anyone under the age of 21. A government tax is levied on all car and motor scooter rentals (insurance is extra). Public transportation is not available in the Turks and Caicos.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, visit the website of the country’s national tourist office.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Turks and Caicos Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Turks and Caicos air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

PURCHASING REAL ESTATE, VEHICLES OR PRIVATE VESSELS: When purchasing property, vehicles or private vessels in the Turks and Caicos Islands please be advised that there is no title insurance available.

When purchasing property, U.S. citizens should deal directly with the office of Land Registry, which is located in Grand Turk. To verify or authenticate a deed or title we recommend that each buyer obtain a copy of the registry prior to the purchase of land to check the veracity and status of the prospective seller’s ownership. The cost is $25 payable to the office of Land Registry. Once the buyer is satisfied with the prospective seller’s status, the buyer and seller must complete bill of sales forms with the office of Land Registry, and the buyer must pay all applicable fees including the stamp duty tax and a $25 registration fee to register the land in the name of its new owner(s). The office of Land Registry can be contacted at 649-946-2801.

When purchasing private vehicles both the buyer and seller must work with the Road Traffic Department. The seller must present to the Road Traffic Department with proof of ownership. A fee of $20 is then collected to produce a bill of sales to be completed by the seller and buyer that will authorize a transfer of names on the title. The Road Traffic Department can be reached at 649-946-4828, or through the government switchboard at 649-946-2801. The same process is conducted with the Maritime Office for the sale and purchase of private vessels. To obtain proper forms the Maritime Office can be contacted by dialing 649-946-2801.

Offices and Departments to verify validity of titles and deeds to land, vehicles and vessels.

Land Registry                                                                                  
Grand Turk Office                                                                   
Ministry of Environment & District Administration Complex         
Pond Street                                                                             
649-946-2801                                                                                 

Providenciales
Palmco Building
1105 Leeward Highway
649-941-4426

Road Traffic Department
Sammy Been Plaza
Airport Road
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
649-946-4828

Maritime Department
Butterfield Square
Downtown
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
649-946-2801