Everything you need to know about driving in Guernsey
Getting around Guernsey is simple once you get the hang of it.
At just 24 square miles, the island is easy to navigate - but if you’re new to the roads here, the narrow lanes, unique signage, and local driving customs can take some getting used to.
Whether you're visiting or relocating to Guernsey, here are 10 essential tips to help you drive with confidence and stay safe on the road.
1. Use a Perry’s guide to plan your route
Before setting off, plan your journey using a Perry’s Guide. Sat Nav does exist in Guernsey but as the roads are often narrow and close together it is sometimes difficult for the Sat Nav to pinpoint your exact location. However, Google maps does work, and having a map handy in your car will help you get used to navigating around.
You can pick up a copy from local bookshops or the Tourist Information Centre in town.
2. Expect narrow roads and rural lanes
Driving in Guernsey is different from the UK or Europe. There are no A-roads or motorways but you'll find more narrow lanes often bordered by granite walls or hedgerows.
- Be prepared to meet pedestrians, cyclists, horses, and farm vehicles
- Drive slowly and be ready to pull into a driveway or passing place
3. Understand the filter-in-turn system
Unique to Guernsey, the filter-in-turn system gives equal priority to all directions at certain junctions.
- Look for 'Filter in Turn' signs and road markings
- Only enter the junction when it’s your turn and your exit is clear
4. Speed limits
Speed limits in Guernsey are lower than in many places:
- 35 mph maximum island-wide
- 25 mph in built-up areas
- 15 mph in Ruette Tranquille zones
Remember: these are maximums, not recommended speeds and in many places, a much lower speed is necessary for safe driving.
5. Explore the Ruette Tranquilles
Guernsey’s Ruette Tranquilles are quiet lanes prioritising walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.
- Marked with green signs
- Recommended speed limit of 15 mph
- A great way to explore the island at a slower pace
View the Ruette Tranquilles map here.
6. Understand yellow line markings
Guernsey uses yellow lines differently than the UK:
- A yellow line across a minor road = give way
- A yellow arrow = warning of a yellow line ahead
- A single yellow line = no stopping unless avoiding an accident
7. Parking & parking clocks
Parking in Guernsey is free, but most areas use disc zones. You’ll need a Parking Clock to show your arrival time.
- Time limits range from 30 minutes to 10 hours
- No re-parking in the same zone for 30 minutes
- Parking clocks are available from Traffic & Highway Services at Edward T Wheadon House, Tourist Information Centre, Police Station most garages, and a number of other retail outlets
8. Accessible parking
Blue Badge parking is available across the island, with many spaces not time-restricted.
- Always check signage for time limits
- Accessible parking and toilet maps are available here
A key and information guide to be used with the accessible parking map can be found here.
9. Parking at night
When parking overnight:
- Vehicles must display lights unless in a disc zone or approved parking area
- Do not park facing oncoming traffic
- Single parking lights are not permitted
10. What to do in case of an accident
- Report accidents involving injury or serious damage to Guernsey Police within 24 hours
- For minor accidents, exchange details if no injuries occurred
- Unsure what to do? Call Guernsey Police on 01481 222222
If you are considering relocating to the island, the team at Locate Guernsey are on hand to provide confidential guidance throughout your relocation journey free of charge. If you would like to understand how Guernsey could work for you, please get in touch:
