Planning a road trip through the Caribbean’s largest island? This Cuba Driving Guide is your essential companion to navigating one of the most captivating destinations in the world. With a rich cultural heritage, vintage ambiance, and stunning landscapes, Cuba invites travelers to explore its roads and unravel its charm behind the wheel. From Havana’s colorful streets to Viñales’ lush valleys and Trinidad’s cobbled colonial beauty, driving across Cuba offers an unmatched, immersive travel experience.

This comprehensive driving guide provides everything you need to know before getting behind the wheel—from licensing requirements and road rules to car rentals, local etiquette, and top destinations you can’t miss. Whether you’re a short-term visitor or planning a long-term stay, this guide is designed to ensure a safe, legal, and unforgettable journey across Cuba.

Why Drive in Cuba?

Driving in Cuba gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems, avoid crowded tour buses, and take in panoramic views at your own pace. Cuba’s diverse terrain ranges from tropical coastlines and green valleys to vibrant urban centers brimming with music and history. While public transportation is available, renting a car and self-driving allows you to enjoy Cuba in its raw, authentic form—especially in areas where public transport is limited.

How to Get an IDP for Cuba

Planning to drive in Cuba? You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid driver’s license from your home country. The IDP acts as a translation of your license, helping authorities in Cuba confirm your credentials—whether you’re cruising through Havana or exploring the scenic roads of Viñales and Trinidad.

Fast, Digital IDP Translations – No Hassle, No Waiting

If you’re short on time or already traveling, applying for a digital IDP translation is the quickest and most convenient option. While traditional IDPs often require in-person or mail-in applications, our service delivers a digital IDP translation directly to your inbox within 6–24 hours.

Perfect for:

• Travelers who are already abroad

• Last-minute trips

• Car rental agencies that accept translated licenses

Your digital IDP translation:

• Is delivered via email

• Translates your license into 12+ languages

• Is accepted by most international car rental companies

Check our pricing plans for full details on packages and processing times.
You can also visit our Cuba-specific IDP page to get started.

Can You Drive with a Local License?

Foreigners are not permitted to use only their national driver’s license. While it may be valid in theory, without an accompanying IDP, your license is considered invalid for driving purposes in Cuba. For those planning to work or stay long-term, obtaining a Cuban driver’s license is mandatory and involves passing a local driving test.

Driving Requirements in Cuba

• Minimum age to rent and drive: 21 years

• Documents needed: National Driver’s License + IDP + Passport

• Seatbelts: Mandatory for front-seat passengers

• Child safety: Restraints required for children under 2; no child under 12 in front seats

• Drive on the right-hand side

• Speed limits:

  • Urban roads: 50 km/h

  • Rural roads: 80 km/h

  • Expressways: Up to 100 km/h

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0% – strict zero-tolerance policy

Renting a Car in Cuba

Car Rental Companies

Cuba has three major government-regulated car rental agencies: CubaCar, Havanautos, and Rex. You can book your rental online in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Vehicle Types

Classic American cars from the 1950s dominate the streets, offering travelers a chance to drive a piece of history. Common models include Buick, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Pontiac. For modern comfort, newer options like Geely, Renault, and Volkswagen are available. Always check for working air conditioning, especially in summer months.

Rental Costs

Due to limited vehicle availability, rental costs in Cuba are higher than in most countries. Expect to pay around $70–$90 USD per day for a standard vehicle. A full tank of gas is typically included, and one-way rentals are possible if your drop-off destination has an agency branch.

Car Insurance

Insurance is mandatory and must be purchased at the time of rental—only from government-approved rental desks. Coverage includes:

• Damage to third parties

• Theft

• Injuries to driver/passengers

• Vehicle damage

Note: Credit card insurance coverage is not accepted in Cuba, and any attempt to pay insurance fees in advance is not permitted.

Road Conditions in Cuba

Cuba’s road infrastructure is a mix of well-maintained expressways and underdeveloped rural roads. Here’s what you need to know:

• Paved Roads: Approx. 30,000 km

• Unpaved Roads: Over 31,000 km

• Toll Roads: None – Cuba’s highways are toll-free

• GPS: Not permitted; rely on paper maps and local assistance

• Lighting: Street lighting is limited outside urban areas

• Traffic Signs: Often missing, especially in rural zones

Driving at night is not recommended due to poor visibility, animals crossing, and vehicles without proper lighting.

Driving Culture and Etiquette

Cubans are generally courteous drivers, but caution is advised. Common issues include:

• Speeding

• Reckless overtaking

• Ignoring right-of-way

If pulled over by police (a frequent occurrence), remain calm and polite. Have your documents ready, including your IDP. Police may check for alcohol, passenger count, or paperwork.

Tipping local helpers or guards in parking areas is customary (about $1 USD). If your car breaks down, contact the rental company—avoid accepting repair help from locals unless directed by your provider.

Hitchhiking in Cuba

It’s common to see locals hitchhiking, especially on rural roads. While not illegal, tourists should use discretion and are generally not advised to pick up strangers unless fluent in Spanish and confident in local navigation.

Emergency Contacts in Cuba

• Police: 106

• Ambulance: 104

• Fire: 105

In case of an accident, remain at the scene and contact the authorities immediately. You may be required to stay in the country for the duration of any investigation.

Top Road Trip Destinations in Cuba

Havana

The capital and cultural heart of Cuba, Havana is an explosion of music, color, and history. From El Malecón’s seaside promenade to Old Havana’s colonial buildings, the city is alive with energy.

Don’t Miss:

• Cocotaxi rides

• Hemingway’s favorite haunts: La Bodeguita del Medio and El Floridita

• Plaza de la Revolución

• El Bosque de la Habana for a jungle escape in the city

Viñales

Located in Pinar del Rio, Viñales is a peaceful town surrounded by dramatic limestone mogotes and lush tobacco fields.

Top Activities:

• Horseback riding through Viñales Valley

• Touring tobacco plantations and cigar-making workshops

• Visiting nearby beaches like Cayo Jutías and Cayo Levisa

• Scenic views from Hotel Jazmines

• Checking out the Mural de la Prehistoria

Trinidad

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad is a living museum of cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, and historic charm.

Things to Do:

• Plaza Mayor strolls

• Visit Museo de Historia Municipal

• Climb the bell tower for panoramic views

• Enjoy traditional Cuban music by night

• Take a day trip to Playa Ancón for beachside relaxation

Tips for Long-Term Travelers

If you’re staying in Cuba beyond tourism:

• Residency: Possible through marriage or family reunification. Requires a Cuban bank account with at least 5000 CUC.

• Work: You can apply for jobs as a driver, cook, nurse, or language tutor. Travel writing and photography are also options.

• Driving License Conversion: Attend a local driving school and pass a Cuban driving test to receive a Cuban license.

Final Thoughts

This Cuba Driving Guide equips you with the knowledge to explore the island independently and safely. Whether you’re chasing Hemingway’s ghost in Havana, smoking hand-rolled cigars in Viñales, or wandering through Trinidad’s timeless streets, driving in Cuba brings an unparalleled sense of freedom.

Prepare your documents, book your rental, and hit the open roads of Cuba—the journey is every bit as magical as the destination.

Start my application

Frequently Asked Questions