Driving and Getting Around the USA – A Complete Guide for UK Travellers
Exploring the United States by car is one of the best ways to experience its incredible landscapes. From the Pacific Coast Highway to Route 66, driving gives freedom and flexibility that few other transport options can match. Before setting off, make sure you understand the local rules, documents, and insurance requirements for UK travellers.
If you are visiting under the Visa Waiver Programme, confirm that your ESTA is approved before travelling. You can apply online at USA ESTA Services or reach the team through the Contact page.
Can UK citizens drive in the USA
Is a UK driving licence valid in the USA?
Yes. Most states allow visitors to drive with a full UK photocard licence for up to 90 days. It must be printed in English and remain valid throughout your trip.
Do UK drivers need an International Driving Permit?
Some states such as Florida, Texas, and Georgia recommend or require an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can get one from selected UK Post Offices for £5.50 in about ten minutes. If travelling for longer than three months or between states, carry one for peace of mind.
How long can you drive with a foreign licence?
Tourists can usually drive for up to 90 days. After that, you may need a local licence depending on the state. Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles page via the U.S. Department of Transportation.
What documents should you carry?
- UK driving licence and IDP (if required)
- Passport for identification
- Rental agreement and insurance papers
- Credit card used for the rental
- Emergency contact and insurer details
Renting a car in the USA
Renting a car lets you explore beyond the main cities, but there are some important requirements.
What do you need to rent a car?
- Full UK driving licence valid for at least 12 months
- Passport and credit card in the driver’s name
- Minimum age of 21 (some companies set 25 for specific vehicles)
Do you need a credit card?
Yes. Most car hire companies require a credit card for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted for pick-up.
Is it cheaper to rent at the airport?
Airport pick-up is convenient but often 10–20% more expensive. City centre branches can be cheaper if you take a taxi or rideshare there.
Car insurance for driving in the USA
Your UK car insurance does not apply in the United States. You will need cover through your rental company or a third-party insurer.
Common insurance terms:
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) – Covers damage to the rental car.
- LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) – Adds theft protection to CDW.
- SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance) – Covers damage to other vehicles or property.
- PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) – Covers medical costs for the driver and passengers.
Should you buy extra insurance?
If you could not afford a large repair bill, extra cover adds peace of mind. UK comparison sites often offer rental excess policies for less than the car hire desk price.
What to do if you crash a rental car?
Stay calm and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Then contact the rental company and your insurer. Never admit fault at the scene. Take photos and exchange details.
Driving rules and road safety
Driving on the right side can feel unusual at first, but you will quickly adapt. Roads are wide and well signposted.
Basic rules:
- Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
- Stop fully at stop signs.
- You may turn right on red unless a sign says otherwise.
- Stop for school buses with flashing lights in both directions.
- Speed limits are in miles per hour and strictly enforced.
Alcohol and mobile phones
The legal alcohol limit is 0.08% or lower in some states. Handheld phone use is banned in many places, so always use hands-free.
If you are pulled over
Keep both hands visible on the steering wheel, stay calm, and wait for instructions. Always be polite and cooperative.
Safe driving habits:
- Rest every two to three hours on long drives.
- Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time navigation.
- Check local lane and overtaking rules in each state.
Road signs, parking and tolls
Understanding US road signs
Signs use symbols and colours rather than words. Yellow warns, red means stop, and green gives directions. See examples on the MUTCD website.
What does a yellow kerb mean?
A yellow or red kerb indicates no parking or limited loading. Always read nearby signs before leaving your car.
Parking tips
- Never park within 10 feet of fire hydrants or in front of driveways.
- Watch for alternate-side parking signs on cleaning days.
- Overnight parking may require a permit.
Toll roads
Many tolls are now cashless. Rental cars often include an EZ Pass transponder that charges your card automatically. Otherwise, pay online within 48 hours using your number plate. Check the Federal Highway Administration for details.
Alternatives to driving in the USA
If you would rather not drive, there are still plenty of ways to get around.
Public transport
Big cities such as New York, Chicago, and San Francisco have excellent metro and bus systems. Beyond major cities, services can be limited.
Trains and buses
Amtrak connects most regions, with scenic journeys like the California Zephyr. Long-distance buses from Greyhound and Megabus are affordable alternatives to flying.
Rideshare and taxis
Uber and Lyft operate in most cities. UK accounts usually work in the USA without creating a new one. Fares depend on distance and time of day.
Preparing before you travel:
- Check your UK licence is valid for the full trip.
- Apply for an International Driving Permit if crossing multiple states.
- Compare car hire companies for all-inclusive insurance rates.
- Store insurance and emergency contacts on your phone.
- Download offline maps for poor-signal areas.
- Learn US road signs and speed limits before driving.