USA - Driving Tips

Generally, the country’s roads are in good if not in perfect condition. Make sure that you take in your needed breaks to keep your focus and concentration fresh when driving those long and straight roads of the country. Plan the journey ahead before you leave. Make sure there are maps with you so that you won’t get lost. Never carry such large amounts of cash and any valuables. Keep your valuables like jewelries, checks and cash hidden and out of sight from others. Wear seatbelts always when driving. As always, drive on the right side. And NEVER drink and drive.

These are some of the basic rules and regulations on the road for driving in the United States of America.

If you are thinking of renting a car for hire in the USA, do note that each of its 50 states has its own set of laws and traffic regulations. But there is nothing to worry since most of the traffic laws are just the same although on some states they have to some extent have different traffic rules. Don’t forget to ask the car agent for any special driving rules and traffic laws that are in that particular state. If you are thinking in touring multiple states in the country, don’t forget to check a tour book first for special driving rules in each state.

Each state has its own speed limits but by most states is 65 miles/hour or about 110 km/hr. But if there are road signs that indicate slower speeds then drivers should oblige. Speeding near those road construction areas is strictly imposed and if apprehended by those police patrols are then charge with weighty penalties in majority of the states.

Majority of the states minimum age requirement for driving is 16. Some of the states are stricter as their rules would not allow an unrestricted driving until the driver reaches the legal age of 18. A number of car rental agencies would not allow a person to rent any of their cars if he is under 25 years old while other rental agencies would only require an extra surcharge.

Generally, almost all states enforced the use of seat belts and majority of the states also require the wearing of helmets by those motorcyclists.

Several states also require the adults if they are traveling with children to make sure the kids are provided with adequate and appropriate car travel restraint seats for the youngsters.

When passing in front of a school, speed limit should be 15 mph if there’s a flashing warning lights. Also a driver is obliged to make a stop in both directions if a school bus passes with flashing lights. These rules and laws are strictly imposed in all states of the country and if caught the driver will be faced with severe penalties.

All states forbid drinking alcohol and driving. If you drink, don’t drive or face the consequences.

In the country, an individual is not required to have with him an International Driving Permit or IDP. If a driver holds a VALID driving license that is enough but often times, they would also require the driver to have his license at least a period of one year.

Foreigners can use their driver’s license from their land of origin within the United States of America for about 1 year. Just take note that the country’s minimum age requirement in renting a car is 21 years old and on some states / agencies its 25 years old and for older driver, their maximum age requirement is 70 years old. Check the car rental company if you are a young or an old driver and be advised to any additional charges that is related to your age. It is practical to fully clarify all the needed details and requirements before getting in to your car for hire and hit on the road to avoid any problems. The car rental company will only accepts credit card payment be sure you have a valid credit card. Also, try to check the company’s policy on a ‘drop – off’ charge like when you pick a car from one location and take it back to another. Majority of the car rental companies are offering this with a bid. These companies also provide a child car seat for an extra charge. Check for such provisions when booking. Before picking up a car for hire in the country, here are some rules and regulations about driving in the states.

Driver’s License would be carried at all times as required by the authorities
A valid national driver’s license from the native country is acceptable in the states and can be use as long as it uses the Roman alphabet language. And the holder should also show his/her International Driving Permit which is also in English.

Drinking and driving incurs heavy fines or prison sentences in all States. So, if you drink, don’t drive.
Drive on the right and don’t obstruct the fast lanes at the right side. On some Interstates and Freeways, could be permissible to overtake on those slow moving traffic that are on the left side.
Be aware of what is happening around you and adapt to local conditions.
Most states have required the driver and front seat passengers to always wear seat belts.
Most states have required children on the back seats to wear seat belts as well.
All states in the country have required those special child seats for babies / young children.
The maximum speed limit in most states – 65 mph (110 Km/h).
There's radar detectors are legal in some states but are illegal in some states. Please be guided accordingly.
Each State has its own traffic laws, however most are very similar. Just check with your car rental agent for the local driving regulations.
Some states require that headlight or sidelights should be used at all times.
Do not argue with the police / authorities. Be polite and patient and should address police officers as 'Sir' or 'Ma’am'.
Most American drivers are polite and courteous.

(source : http://www.novacarhire.com/car-hire/USA/Driving_In_USA.htm)

USA Roads	Speed Limits
On Highways, Freeways, Interstates and other major roads that are outside towns	65 mph is the maximum of majority of the states
On the local and town limits, there are signs that are posted on the side streets. When passing schools and there’s a flashing warning light on it. Note: Should NOT overtake a stationary School Bus that has its flashing lights on – this is applied to both directions.	15 mph

It is best to use designated ‘off street’ car parks as strict laws apply for street parking. If you do park on the street:

It is best to use those designated ‘off street’ areas for car parks as there are strict laws would apply for street parking. If you park on the street.
Should always park on the right side of the lane and your car should not face the traffic.
Don’t park in front of those yellow / red road lines. Don’t park within 10 feet of a fire hydrant. Don’t park on a white line at a bus stop.
"No Parking" signs should always be obeyed at all times as clamping and on-the-spot fines are very common in cities and major towns.
There are severe penalties that may be incurred for dangerous parking.