Driving Laws in Guam - Complete Guide
Current information, rules, and requirements for international drivers
Quick Facts - Guam
| Driving Side | Right |
|---|---|
| Steering Wheel | Left |
| Speed Units | mph |
| Minimum Driving Age | 16 |
| Car Rental Age | 21-75 |
| Seat Belt Required | |
|---|---|
| Blood Alcohol Limit | 0.08% |
| IDP Required | No |
| Toll Roads | |
| Emergency Number | 911 |
Introduction
Driving in Guam offers a unique blend of American road regulations set against a tropical island backdrop. As an unincorporated territory of the United States, Guam follows U.S. federal highway standards, meaning traffic moves on the right-hand side of the road with left-hand drive vehicles. The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD), and road signs and speed limits are displayed in miles per hour. For tourists, particularly those from the United States, driving here feels instantly familiar, with the same basic rules, signage, and vehicle configurations. The island's compact size makes it an ideal destination to explore by car, with a well-maintained network of primary roads circling the island and connecting major destinations like Tumon, Hagåtña, and the naval base. Renting a car is highly recommended, as public transportation options are limited outside the main tourist corridor. Traffic is generally light compared to mainland U.S. cities, though the main arteries through Tamuning and Dededo can become congested during peak commuting hours. Drivers should remain vigilant for sudden tropical downpours, which can create slick road conditions and reduce visibility. Overall, driving in Guam is straightforward, relaxed, and the best way to discover the island's hidden beaches, scenic overlooks, and cultural landmarks at your own pace.Is It Easy to Drive There?
Yes, driving in Guam is generally very easy for tourists, especially for those accustomed to U.S. road rules. The island features well-paved main roads, clear signage in English, and a relaxed driving culture. The primary challenge for visitors is navigating during heavy tropical rainstorms, which can cause localized flooding and reduce traction on the older coral-paved roads. Traffic congestion is minimal outside of Marine Corps Drive during morning and evening rush hours. Wildlife, particularly stray dogs and the occasional monitor lizard crossing the road, can present unexpected hazards. The absence of complex highway interchanges or high-speed motorways makes navigation simple. Overall, with a GPS or a smartphone map, even first-time visitors will find driving in Guam to be a stress-free experience.Driving Side
In Guam, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, consistent with United States traffic regulations. The steering wheel is positioned on the left side of the vehicle, meaning the driver sits closest to the center line of the road. For visitors from countries such as Japan, the United Kingdom, or Australia, where left-hand traffic is the norm, this reversed orientation requires a brief period of adjustment. Pay particular attention when turning at intersections and entering roundabouts, as the natural tendency to look in the wrong direction can lead to dangerous situations. Always yield to traffic coming from your left at uncontrolled intersections.Speed Limits
| Road Type | Speed Limit | Enforcement Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Urban/Residential Areas | 25 mph (40 km/h) | Strictly enforced near schools and residential zones; radar commonly used. |
| Rural Roads | 35 mph (56 km/h) | Default limit unless otherwise posted; watch for curves and wildlife. |
| Major Highways (e.g., Marine Corps Drive) | 35-45 mph (56-72 km/h) | Speed varies by section; speed cameras and patrol cars monitor traffic. |
| School Zones | 15 mph (24 km/h) | Active during school hours; fines are doubled in these zones. |
Guam strictly enforces a basic speeding law, meaning drivers can be cited for driving too fast for conditions even if they are under the posted limit, especially during heavy rain or poor visibility.
Seat Belt Laws
Seat belt use is mandatory in Guam for all occupants of a vehicle, regardless of seating position. The driver is legally responsible for ensuring that every passenger is properly restrained. Front seat occupants must wear a three-point lap and shoulder belt at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Rear seat passengers are also required by law to buckle up, and failure to do so can result in a citation for the driver. The fine for a seat belt violation is $100 USD per unrestrained occupant. Guam enforces a primary seat belt law, meaning law enforcement officers can stop a vehicle solely for a seat belt infraction without needing any other traffic violation. Children under the age of 11 and under 4 feet 9 inches tall must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat, regardless of where they sit in the vehicle.Child Seat Rules
Guam law requires that all children under the age of 11 years old and less than 4 feet 9 inches (145 cm) in height be secured in a federally approved child safety restraint system. Infants must ride in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old or exceed the weight and height limits set by the car seat manufacturer. Children who have outgrown a forward-facing car seat but are still under 4 feet 9 inches tall must use a belt-positioning booster seat. It is illegal to place a rear-facing infant seat in the front passenger seat if the vehicle is equipped with an active airbag. While ISOFIX (LATCH) systems are standard in modern rental vehicles on the island, older cars may require seat belt installation. Exceptions are permitted for medical reasons with appropriate documentation, and taxis are generally exempt from providing child seats.Drink Driving Laws
The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Guam is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over, consistent with U.S. federal standards. For drivers under the legal drinking age of 21, Guam enforces a zero-tolerance policy with a BAC limit of 0.02%. Commercial drivers are held to a stricter standard of 0.04%. Penalties for a first-time DUI offense include a mandatory minimum fine of $500 USD, a 90-day license suspension, and possible imprisonment for up to 1 year. Refusing a breathalyzer test results in an automatic one-year administrative license revocation under the territory's implied consent law. Enhanced penalties apply for aggravated DUI, which includes a BAC of 0.16% or higher, and can result in fines exceeding $2,000 USD, mandatory alcohol treatment programs, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.Mobile Phone Rules
Guam prohibits all drivers from using a handheld mobile phone while operating a vehicle. This includes talking, texting, emailing, or any manual interaction with the device. Hands-free communication using Bluetooth, earpieces, or voice-activated commands is permitted and encouraged. GPS navigation is allowed as long as the destination is programmed before the vehicle is in motion or the device is mounted and controlled via voice commands. Violators face a fine of $100 USD for a first offense, with subsequent offenses increasing to $250 USD. The law applies even when the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light or stop sign, though drivers can legally use their phones if pulled over in a safe location with the engine turned off.Required Documents
To legally drive in Guam as a tourist, you must carry the following documents at all times: a valid driver's license from your home country or state, a valid passport for identification, and proof of insurance if driving a rental vehicle. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as a translation supplement, though not strictly required by law. When renting a vehicle, you must present a major credit card and your rental agreement, which serves as proof of registration for the vehicle. Military personnel stationed on the island can drive with a valid U.S. or international license alongside their military ID.International Driving Permit (IDP)
Guam does not legally require an International Driving Permit for tourists holding a valid driver's license from any country, including non-English speaking nations. However, if your license is printed in a language other than English, obtaining an IDP is strongly recommended to facilitate communication with law enforcement and rental car companies. The permit serves as an official translation of your credentials and can simplify interactions during traffic stops or accidents. U.S. driver's licenses are recognized without any additional documentation. It is important to note that while an IDP is not mandatory, individual rental car agencies may have their own policies requiring one for licenses written in non-Roman alphabets, so checking with your provider before arrival is advisable. You must obtain your IDP from your home country before traveling to Guam, as local issuance for foreign licenses is not available.Road Signs
Road signs in Guam follow the U.S. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) standards, using English text and standard international symbols. Key signs include the red octagonal STOP sign, the inverted red and white triangle YIELD sign, and rectangular white SPEED LIMIT signs with black lettering. Yellow diamond-shaped warning signs alert drivers to pedestrian crossings, sharp curves, and slippery roads. Orange diamond signs indicate road work zones. Blue circular signs with a white 'H' denote hospital locations, while brown signs mark recreational and cultural points of interest. School zone signs are fluorescent yellow-green pentagons and indicate a 15 mph limit when children are present. A unique local sign warns of 'Watch for Frogs' near wetland areas, while tsunami evacuation route signs are critical along coastal roads.Toll Roads
Guam does not have any toll roads. All roads, highways, and bridges on the island are free to use without any toll charges, vignettes, or congestion pricing systems. Drivers can travel the full length of Marine Corps Drive, the Cross Island Road, and all other routes without stopping at toll plazas or maintaining a toll account. This simplifies driving considerably for tourists and eliminates the need for electronic transponders or toll tags. The only road-related fees visitors might encounter are parking fees at certain beach parks and tourist attractions, which are separate from road usage. The absence of tolls reflects Guam's compact road network and its reliance on territorial government funding for infrastructure maintenance.Fuel Stations
Fuel stations are plentiful throughout Guam, particularly along Marine Corps Drive and in the central business districts of Tamuning, Dededo, and Hagåtña. Most major stations operate 24 hours a day, though smaller stations in rural areas may close between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Regular unleaded petrol (gasoline) and diesel are universally available. The average price for regular unleaded fuel is approximately $5.50 per gallon (about $1.45 per liter), while diesel averages slightly higher at $5.80 per gallon (about $1.53 per liter). Premium unleaded is also widely available. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is expanding, with charging stations found at major shopping centers, hotels in Tumon, and select government buildings. Payment is typically made at the pump using a credit or debit card, though cash payment inside the station is also an option.Parking Rules
Parking in Guam is generally abundant and affordable compared to major mainland U.S. cities. In the Tumon tourist district, hotel parking is typically complimentary for guests, while public beach access lots charge approximately $3 to $5 USD per day. The capital city of Hagåtña offers metered street parking at a rate of $0.25 per 30 minutes, enforced Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Blue-painted curbs designate disabled parking only, and unauthorized vehicles will be fined $250 USD. Yellow curbs indicate loading zones with a 15-minute limit. White zones along residential streets are generally free but often require a residential permit overnight. Parking apps are not widely adopted; most meters are coin-operated or use simple pay-and-display machines. Illegal parking violations, including blocking a fire hydrant or parking in a bus zone, carry fines ranging from $50 to $250 USD. Always check for 'No Parking' signs, particularly on street sweeping days in urban areas.Roundabout Rules
Roundabouts are becoming increasingly common in Guam, particularly in newly developed areas and near school zones. The fundamental rule is that vehicles already circulating within the roundabout have the right of way. Drivers approaching a roundabout must yield to traffic coming from the left and enter only when there is a safe gap. Always signal your intent to exit the roundabout using your right turn indicator before reaching your desired exit. Maintain a consistent speed and avoid stopping inside the roundabout unless necessary to avoid a collision. Multi-lane roundabouts require extra caution: select the appropriate lane before entering based on your exit, and stay within your lane markings throughout the maneuver. Large trucks and buses may need to use both lanes; do not attempt to pass them within the roundabout.Winter Driving
Winter driving conditions as experienced in colder climates do not exist in Guam due to its tropical marine climate. There is no need for snow tires, chains, or any winter-specific driving equipment at any time of the year. The island enjoys consistently warm temperatures averaging 80°F (27°C) year-round. However, the primary weather-related driving challenge is the tropical rainy season, typically from July through November, which coincides with the typhoon season. During these months, heavy downpours can cause flash flooding on low-lying roads and reduce visibility to near zero. Drivers should ensure their windshield wipers are in good condition, headlights are functioning, and tires have adequate tread depth to channel water and prevent hydroplaning. If a typhoon warning is issued, all non-essential driving should be avoided until the all-clear is given by local authorities.Low Emission Zones
Guam has not designated any formal low emission zones (LEZs) or ultra-low emission zones (ULEZs) within its territory. There are currently no restrictions on vehicle types or emissions standards for entering any town, village, or district on the island. All gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles can travel freely throughout Guam without the need for special permits, stickers, or registrations. This permissive policy reflects the island's small vehicle fleet and the absence of chronic air quality issues requiring traffic restriction measures. However, the local government does encourage the use of fuel-efficient and electric vehicles through tax incentives rather than restrictions. Renters can confidently drive any vehicle they have hired without concern about emissions-related access limitations.Traffic Fines
| Violation | Fine in USD |
|---|---|
| Speeding (1-15 mph over limit) | $85 - $150 |
| Speeding (16-25 mph over limit) | $200 - $350 |
| Speeding (26+ mph over limit) | $350 - $500 |
| Handheld Phone Use | $100 (first offense), $250 (subsequent) |
| Seat Belt Violation (per person) | $100 |
| Driving Under the Influence (DUI) | $500 - $2,000+ plus license suspension |
| Running a Red Light | $150 |
| Illegal Parking (handicap zone) | $250 |
| Failure to Yield | $100 |
| Driving Without Insurance | $500 and possible vehicle impoundment |
Driving Tips for Tourists
1. Always carry your driver's license, passport, and rental documents with you while driving; police checkpoints are common on weekend evenings. 2. Be extra cautious during and after tropical downpours, as roads can flood quickly and potholes may be hidden under standing water. 3. Watch for wildlife, especially monitor lizards and stray dogs crossing roads in rural areas; these animals are protected and drivers should avoid harming them. 4. Do not leave valuables visible in your car when parked at beaches or hiking trailheads; vehicle break-ins can occur. 5. On Marine Corps Drive, maintain a steady speed and use your mirrors frequently; aggressive driving and sudden lane changes are common during rush hour. 6. At four-way stops, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way; if two arrive simultaneously, yield to the vehicle on your right. 7. Fuel up before exploring the southern and northern tips of the island; stations are sparse in the villages of Umatac, Merizo, and Yigo's outer areas. 8. Pedestrians do not always have the right of way outside of marked crosswalks, but always stop for anyone crossing in a school zone. 9. If you see a school bus with flashing red lights, you must stop in both directions unless there is a physical median dividing the road. 10. Keep a physical map or downloaded offline GPS map on your phone, as cell service can be unreliable in the mountainous interior and along remote coastal roads.Renting a Car
Renting a car in Guam is the most popular way for tourists to explore the island, with all major international agencies such as Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Nissan Rent-a-Car present at the A.B. Won Pat International Airport and throughout Tumon. The minimum rental age is typically 21 years old, though drivers between 21 and 24 are often subject to a young driver surcharge of approximately $25 to $35 USD per day. Most agencies do not enforce a maximum age limit, though 75 is often the cut-off for standard policies without a medical clearance. A major credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit; debit cards are sometimes accepted with proof of a return flight ticket. Basic liability insurance is included in the rental, but collision damage waiver (CDW) is strongly recommended, especially if your personal auto insurance or credit card does not cover rental cars in U.S. territories. The standard fuel policy is full-to-full. Average rental costs range from $40 to $70 USD per day for a compact car, and $80 to $120 USD per day for an SUV, not including taxes and fees. One-way rentals are generally not practical on the island given its size. Vehicles are predominantly automatic transmission, and manual shift cars are extremely rare.Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, tourists can drive in Guam with a valid driver's license from their home country. U.S. licenses are directly recognized. For licenses in non-English languages, an International Driving Permit is recommended for convenience but is not legally required.
No, an IDP is not legally required in Guam. However, if your license is not in English, rental car agencies may request an IDP as a translation, and it can help if you are stopped by the police.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Guam, with the steering wheel on the left side of the vehicle, following U.S. standards.
Almost all rental cars in Guam are automatic transmission. Manual transmission vehicles are extremely rare and generally not available at major rental agencies.
The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over. For drivers under 21, a zero-tolerance policy applies with a limit of 0.02%.
No, there are no toll roads anywhere in Guam. All roads and highways are completely free to use.
On Marine Corps Drive, the main highway, the speed limit ranges from 35 mph to 45 mph (56 to 72 km/h) depending on the specific section of the road.
Driving at night is generally safe on the main roads, which are well-lit. However, rural and coastal roads may have limited lighting, and stray animals are more active after dark, so caution is advised.
If you receive a citation, you must either pay the fine at the Traffic Violations Bureau in Hagåtña or appear in court on the specified date. Fines can be paid in U.S. dollars by cash, check, or credit card. Unpaid tickets will result in a warrant and can affect your ability to leave the territory.
No, it is illegal to hold or manually use a mobile phone while driving. Hands-free devices and Bluetooth are permitted. The fine for a first offense is $100 USD.
Public beach parks typically charge a small fee of $3 to $5 USD per vehicle for all-day parking. Parking is generally free at hotel beaches in Tumon for guests. Do not park on the sand or blocking emergency access gates.
Yes, children under the age of 11 and under 4 feet 9 inches (145 cm) tall must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat.
All transactions, including traffic fines, fuel purchases, and parking fees, are conducted in U.S. Dollars (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at fuel stations and for fine payments.
No, a standard sedan is sufficient for almost all roads on the island. Four-wheel drive is only necessary if you plan to venture onto unmaintained dirt tracks or remote beaches, which is generally not permitted by rental agreements.
The emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services in Guam is 911.