FAQ

Do I need a permit to drive in Dominica?

It is a legal requirement that all visitors wanting to drive on the Nature Island be issued a Visitor’s Temporary Driving Permit. This is issued at the Inland Revenue Division for a fee of US $12. Sonar Rentals assist it's customers in getting their permits before arrival to Dominica

What are your car rental age requirements?

In order to rent with Sonar Car, you must be at least 25 years of age with Three years driving experience

Do I require a Security Deposit?

Yes, a security deposit of US$1000 is required. This security deposit will be released at the end of the rental period once there is no damage to the rental vehicle and all accounts are settled. The deposit is taken in the form of an authorization transaction. In an authorization transaction the funds are frozen or held on your credit or debit card. This is NOT a purchase transaction.

Which documents will be required of me when picking up my vehicle?.

  • A valid drivers license held for at least 2 years
  • A valid passport ( visitors)
  • A Valid credit/debit card, issued under your name, with sufficient funds for a credit hold (security deposit)

When you rent a vehicle with Sonar Rentals you can chose between:


  • Cash Payment - Pay for your entire rental, including any extras, once you reach your destination upon delivery.
  • Online Payment - Pay for your entire reservation, including any extras, online. online payments will be charged in US dollars through PayPal (a global payments platform). For more information on how PayPal works, or to open an account, please visit their Help section. OR via our online portal charged in EC dollars.
  • National bank of Dominica - MO banking Merchant option- We are listed on National Bank of Dominica Mobanking platform as a Merchant “Sonar Rentals & Services”
  • Note that Partial payment will be required for reservations - choosing this method, you guarantee your reservation by paying only a percentage of the value of the daily rate contracted and the remaining amount is paid directly when you pick up the vehicle.

What is a car rental agreement (contract)?

A car rental agreement is a signed contract between the renter and the rental company that specifies the terms, conditions and policies of the rental. Go over the information contained in this document thoroughly and be sure to clear up any doubts or questions you may have before signing it. Once signed, you will have agreed with all its specifications.

Can I include more than one additional driver?

Yes, rental companies offer the option of including more than one additional driver. All additional drivers are subject to the same terms and conditions as the person who placed the reservation.

What should i do if my flight is delayed or before schedule?

When booking your car rental, you can choose to inform the rental company of your flight number so that they may track its status. Should you opt for providing your flight number, we recommend that you inform the rental location of any last minute flight changes (overbooking, flight number change, etc) so as to avoid any inconveniences.

What should I do if the vehicle breaks down or presents any problems?

You should contact the rental company immediately. The rental company’s contact information can be found in the booking confirmation document. For additional information, please reach out to us.

How does fuel policy work?

As a rule of thumb, the vehicle is delivered with a full tank of gas and will also have to be returned with a full tank of gas. If the vehicle is not returned in accordance with the terms stipulated in the rental agreement, the cost associated with refueling the vehicle will be charged to you in compliance with the rental company´s pre-set price table.

If the vehicle is delivered to you by way of Delivery Service, it may arrive with less than a full tank of gas due to the distance between the rental location and the airport. In such cases, refueling of the vehicle will have to comply with the rental company´s established policy.

Should I inspect my car on receiving?

Yes, you should absolutely take part in the vehicle´s inspection both when you pick-up and when you drop-off your rental. We recommend that you personally check the bodywork, the interior, technical components and any accessories. A complete inspection of the vehicle ensures a hassle free rental experiences and avoids unnecessary charges

Safety Recommendations

  • Driving is on the left side of the road
  • Use seatbelts at all times.
  • Use horn frequently to ensure safety (especially blind corners, brow of hills or any area where you may be not be able to see what is coming immediately.
  • Fill up in the city before leaving!
  • Use low gear when going down steep roads.
  • Due to Dominica’s very mountainous terrain we advise parking of vehicles away from cliffs, hills or any where prone to falling rocks
  • Roads may have potholes, curbs or unleveled areas that an cause damage; look out for them and proceed with caution
  • Please do not attempt to cross over flowing high water levels which may be seen during heavy rainfall.
  • If you think twice at an intersection, please wait and ensure you are in the clewar and right of way at all times before proceeding.
  • Please try to keep at least 15ft from vehicles in front of you , abrupts stops can cause rear ending and put you in the wrong.
  • Look out for pedestrians, motorists and and other vehicles. Even if you are in the right, avoid accidents at all times!
  • Allow anyone who seems to be driving reckless and hasty to proceed ;slow down with indication and allow them to pass.