Driving in United States
Complete guide for tourists and expats. Learn the road rules, speed limits, and essential information before you drive in United States.
Can You Drive in United States?
Accepted Licenses From
Validity Period: Valid for up to 90 days in most states (varies by state)
Important Note
IDP recommended for non-English licenses. Each state has its own rules — check your destination state.
What to Carry in Your Car
Mandatory Items
- Valid driving license
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- Passport or valid ID (for international visitors)
Recommended Items
- International Driving Permit (if license not in English)
- Rental agreement (if applicable)
- Emergency roadside kit
- Phone charger (GPS navigation essential)
Speed Limits
Urban Areas
km/h
Rural Roads
km/h
Highways/Motorways
km/h
Toll Roads
Payment Methods
Average Cost
$1-15 per toll; varies widely by state and road
Many toll roads are now cashless. Rental cars usually include toll transponders or charge Toll-by-Plate fees. Ask your rental agency about toll options.
Parking
Line Colors
Parking Tips
- Always read parking signs carefully — rules vary by time of day
- Use parking apps (ParkMobile, SpotHero) in major cities
- Never park in front of fire hydrants
- Disabled parking without permit results in $250+ fines
- Free parking is common at suburban malls and big-box stores
Average Cost: $2-6 per hour metered; $15-50/day garages (varies by city)
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
- 1Not knowing right turn on red is allowed in most states (except NYC)
- 2Not stopping for school buses with extended stop signs
- 3Failing to move over for stopped emergency vehicles (Move Over law)
- 4Driving in the left lane (passing lane only in most states)
- 5Not understanding four-way stop intersections (first to stop = first to go)
- 6Speeding in school and construction zones — fines are doubled
Traffic Fines
Speeding
$50-500+ depending on state and speed over limit
No Seatbelt
$25-200 (enforcement varies by state)
Phone Use
$50-500 (hands-free laws in most states)
Red Light
$50-500 (camera-enforced in many cities)
Illegal Parking
$25-250+ depending on violation
Ready to Drive in United States?
Take a quick quiz to test your knowledge of the road rules.
Emergency Contacts
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Fire
911
Roadside Assistance
AAA: 1-800-222-4357
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Want to Master United States Driving Rules?
Practice with our driving test questions and learn all the rules before you drive.
