Driving in New York
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in New York, United States. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in New York
IDP Not Required
Most US states accept foreign licenses for tourists for up to 90 days. An IDP is recommended for non-English licenses as it provides an official translation.
Fine without IDP: $50-500 depending on offense
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country. AAA offices can help US residents.
Accepted Licenses
Traffic Rules in New York
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Right turn on red is NOT allowed in NYC (unlike most of US)
- 2Honking is illegal except in emergencies - $350 fine
- 3Pedestrians have right of way in crosswalks
- 4Yellow lights mean stop if safe, not speed up
- 5Bus lanes are camera-enforced - $150 fine
- 6No U-turns in business districts
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Turning right on red (illegal in NYC)
- Honking (illegal)
- Blocking the box (intersections)
- Not yielding to pedestrians
- Stopping in bike lanes
Horn Culture
Honking is illegal in NYC - $350 fine. Drivers still do it but it's officially prohibited.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
$45-600 + points on license
No Helmet
$100+ (required for motorcycles)
No IDP
Not typically enforced for tourists
Red Light
$50-300 + camera tickets
Drink Driving
$500-10,000 + criminal charges
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Do not drive in Manhattan if you can avoid it
- Use subway, rideshare, or taxis instead
- If driving, be extremely patient and defensive
- Watch for cyclists and delivery bikes
- GPS is essential - many one-way streets
- Keep car locked and valuables hidden
Best Time to Drive
Late evening (after 9 PM) or early morning (before 7 AM). Avoid rush hours.
Rainy Season Warning
No specific season, but rain and snow make driving more difficult. Winter requires extra caution.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Midtown Manhattan (always congested)
- Times Square area
- Bridges and tunnels during rush hour
Parking
Average Cost
$30-75/day in garages, $6+/hour street parkingScooter Parking
Motorcycles can park in regular spaces. Some designated motorcycle parking available.
Parking Tips
- Street parking rules are complex - read signs carefully
- Alternate side parking for street cleaning
- Garage parking is expensive but safer
- Meters and apps (ParkNYC) for payment
- Never park at hydrants - $115 fine and towing
FAQ: Driving in New York
Should I rent a car in New York City?
For Manhattan, no. Public transit, taxis, and rideshare are far more practical. Only rent a car if you're leaving the city for trips to Long Island, Upstate NY, or other destinations.
Is it hard to drive in NYC?
Yes, very. Aggressive drivers, complex rules, heavy traffic, expensive parking, and pedestrians everywhere. Even locals avoid driving in Manhattan when possible.
Do I need a car to explore New York?
Not for Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens tourist areas. The subway system is extensive. Consider a car only for day trips to areas like the Hamptons or Hudson Valley.
How much is parking in NYC?
Garages cost $30-75/day in Manhattan. Street parking is scarce and complex. Some outer borough areas have free street parking.
Can I turn right on red in New York?
No! Unlike most of the US, right turn on red is illegal in NYC unless a sign specifically allows it.
Emergency Contacts
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Roadside Assistance
AAA: 1-800-222-4357
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Practice for Your United States Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.