Renting a car in the USA opens up a world of adventure, from cruising iconic coastal highways to exploring vast national parks and vibrant cities at your own pace. The USA is a country practically designed for road trips, with an extensive interstate highway system, legendary scenic routes, and diverse landscapes waiting to be discovered.
But before you hit the road, it's crucial to understand the local driving laws and prepare the right documents. This expert, friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know about car rental in the USA for foreigners, with reassuring tips to make your American road trip safe and enjoyable.
We'll cover the legal requirements for driving in the USA, essential USA traffic rules, local driving etiquette, and insider advice specifically for UK travellers. When you're planning a budget car rental in the USA or looking for the best insurance for car rental in the USA, this guide will have you covered. By the end, you'll be ready to drive in the USA with confidence, and we'll show you how Gigasure's Car Hire Excess Insurance can add extra peace of mind to your journey.
Licence Requirements for Driving in the USA
Valid Driving Licence and Age Requirements
To drive in the USA, you must hold a valid driving licence. The driving age in the USA varies by state, with most states setting the minimum at 16 for a full licence, though some states allow provisional licences from age 14 or 15. However, it's important to understand that the driving age and the car rental age are very different things.
For visitors from the UK, you can drive in the US with a UK License for tourist visits lasting up to three months (90 days) in most states. Your UK photocard driving licence is recognised across all 50 states, making driving in the USA with a UK License straightforward and hassle-free.
When it comes to actually renting a vehicle, most car rental companies in the USA require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and many impose "young driver" surcharges for anyone under 25 (typically $25-$35 per day extra). Some rental agencies won't rent to drivers under 25 at all. Additionally, many companies require that you have held your licence for at least one year.
International Driving Permit for the USA
One of the most frequently asked questions is: Do I need an international driving permit for the USA? The official answer is that UK licence holders do not legally require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in the USA for short tourist visits (typically up to 90 days). The United States officially recognises UK driving licences under various reciprocal agreements.
However, whilst you don't legally need an IDP to drive, many car rental companies in the USA strongly recommend or even require one as part of their terms and conditions.
Why Car Rental Is Expensive in the USA
Car rental prices in the USA are surprisingly high, particularly in popular tourist destinations and during peak travel seasons. Several factors contribute to this: high demand in locations like Florida, California, and Hawaii; airport fees and taxes (sometimes 10 - 30% extra), with insurance costs, and young driver fees ($25 - 35 per day for under 25s).
Additional Drivers and Who Can Drive
If you're planning a long American road trip and want to share driving duties, any additional drivers must be declared on the rental contract and present at pickup with their own valid licence and ID.
USA car hire companies typically charge for extra drivers (around $10-15 per day), though some waive this fee for spouses.
Only drivers listed on the rental agreement are legally authorised to operate the vehicle. If an unlisted driver is behind the wheel during an accident, your insurance cover will likely be void.
Automatic vs Manual Transmission
Unlike Europe, automatic transmission vehicles are the overwhelming standard in the USA. Manual cars are so rare that you'll likely pay a premium if you specifically request one. For most UK drivers, this is actually a bonus: not having to worry about shifting gears whilst adjusting to driving on the right side of the road reduces stress.
Car Hire Company Rules and Insurance Basics for Car Hire in the USA
Understanding insurance foxz`r car rental USA is arguably the most important aspect of renting a car in America. The insurance landscape is quite different from the UK, and many tourists find themselves pressured into buying expensive coverage at the rental desk.
Mandatory Insurance Requirements
In the USA, basic third-party liability insurance is mandatory by law in almost all states. This covers damage or injury you might cause to other people or property. The good news is that rental car insurance in the USA almost always includes this basic liability coverage as part of your car hire rate. However, this only protects others; it doesn't protect you or the rental vehicle itself.
What Car Rental Insurance Do I Need in the USA
Here are the main types of coverage rental companies offer:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): Limits your financial responsibility if the rental car is damaged or stolen. Typically costs $15 - 40 per day and usually comes with an excess (deductible) of $500 - 2,000.
- Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP): Increases basic liability coverage limits. Costs around $10-20 per day.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical costs if injured. Usually $5-10 per day. UK visitors with comprehensive travel insurance typically don't need this.
- Personal Effects Coverage (PEC): Covers theft of belongings. Generally unnecessary if you have travel insurance with baggage cover.
A Better Insurance Option: Excess Insurance
Here's the smart alternative. Purchase standalone Car Hire Excess Insurance before your trip. This reimburses you for the excess/deductible amount you'd have to pay to the rental company if the car is damaged or stolen.
Gigasure's Car Hire Excess Insurance is specifically designed for travellers hiring cars abroad. Rather than paying $30-50 per day for the rental company's excess reduction, you can get comprehensive excess coverage for as little as £3-6 per day (often less with annual policies).
The policy typically offers superior coverage, including damage to tyres, windscreen, roof, and undercarriage; lost or stolen keys; misfuelling cover; towing costs; and coverage for multiple drivers.
Planning a USA road trip? Arrange your Car Hire Excess Insurance before you travel. It's far cheaper than buying protection at the rental desk, often offers better coverage, and gives you the confidence to decline expensive counter upsells.
Essential Documents to Carry in the Car
When driving in the USA, keep these documents in the vehicle at all times:
- Driver's Licence: Your UK photocard licence (and IDP if you have one). Must be the original physical document.
- Passport: Your primary form of ID in the USA. Essential for law enforcement checks.
- Rental Agreement: Keep a copy in the glovebox. It proves you have permission to drive the vehicle and documents your insurance coverage.
- Insurance Information: The rental contract will show the basic coverage included. If you have purchased excess insurance (like Gigasure's policy), keep your policy number and emergency contact details accessible on your phone.
- Proof of Address (for longer stays): If you're in the USA for an extended period or have established temporary residence, some states may ask for proof of address. For tourists on short visits, this isn't typically required.
USA Traffic Rules: What UK Drivers Need to Know
Driving in the USA follows different rules from the UK in several important ways. Here's everything you need to know about USA driving laws to stay safe and legal on American roads.
Drive on the Right
In the USA, traffic flows on the right-hand side of the road (opposite to the UK). This means you overtake on the left. American rental cars are left-hand drive (steering wheel on the left), which helps reinforce the correct side. Many UK drivers find it helpful to repeat a mental reminder: "stay right, pass left" when pulling out of car parks or onto empty roads. A small sticky note on the dashboard saying "DRIVE RIGHT" can be a useful prompt for the first few days.
Speed Limits in Miles Per Hour
Good news for UK drivers: the USA uses miles per hour (mph), just like back home. This makes speed limit signs immediately familiar. However, the limits themselves differ from UK standards and vary by state and road type:
- Interstate Highways: Typically 65 - 80 mph, depending on the state. Rural western states like Texas, Montana, and parts of Utah allow 80 mph. Eastern and more densely populated states tend toward 65 - 70 mph.
- State Highways and Rural Roads: Usually 55 - 65 mph, though this varies considerably. Always watch for posted signs.
- Urban Areas: Typically 25 - 35 mph in cities and residential neighbourhoods. School zones may have 15 - 20 mph limits when children are present (usually indicated by flashing lights).
- Downtown and Residential Streets: Often 25 - 30 mph unless otherwise posted.
Speed enforcement varies widely by state. Some states (Virginia, for instance) are known for strict enforcement with heavy fines and even jail time for extreme speeding. The rule of thumb: stick to posted limits, or at most 5 mph over on highways where traffic flows faster.
The Four-Way Stop
At intersections where all directions have stop signs, every vehicle must come to a complete stop. The first vehicle to arrive and stop has the right of way to proceed. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the one on the right has priority. Make eye contact with other drivers, and when in doubt, let the other driver go first.
Right Turn on Red
In most US states (except New York City and where specifically prohibited by signs), you are allowed to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear. Approach the red light, stop completely, check for pedestrians (they have the absolute right of way), check for oncoming traffic from the left, and if clear, make your right turn. If a sign says "No Turn on Red," you must wait for green.
Absolute Priority for School Buses
Yellow school buses have special legal protections. When a school bus stops and extends its red stop sign arm with flashing red lights, all traffic in both directions must stop and remain stopped until the bus turns off its lights. Violating school bus stop laws carries severe penalties, fines of $250 - 1,000 and potential license suspension. Never pass a stopped school bus with its lights flashing.
Seatbelts and Child Safety
Seatbelt laws vary by state, but in most states, all occupants must wear seatbelts. Child safety seat requirements also vary by state, but generally, children under 2 should be in rear-facing seats, children 2-4 in forward-facing seats with harnesses, children 4-8 in booster seats, and children over 8 (or above 4'9"/145cm) can use regular seatbelts.
Rental companies offer child seats for hire (around $10-15 per day), but availability can be limited, so reserve them when booking.
Mobile Phones and Distracted Driving
Laws about mobile phone use whilst driving vary significantly by state. Some states ban all handheld phone use entirely, while others allow calls but prohibit texting. The safest approach: use only hands-free devices, mount your phone for GPS navigation, and never text whilst driving. Fines range from $100 to $500 for first offences.
Zero Tolerance on Drinking and Driving
The USA takes drunk driving very seriously. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21, enforced far more strictly than in the UK. First-time DUI offences commonly result in license suspension, fines of $500-2,000, potential jail time, and a criminal record. For tourists, a DUI can mean immediate arrest and serious complications with future USA entry.
What to Do If You're Pulled Over by Police
If you see flashing lights behind you, here's the proper protocol:
- Pull over to the right side of the road as soon as it's safe to do so. Use your indicator.
- Turn off the engine, turn on your hazard lights, and if it's dark, turn on the interior dome light.
- Roll your window down halfway and place both hands on the steering wheel where the officer can see them (at "10 and 2" position). If you're a passenger, place your hands on the dashboard.
- Stay in the vehicle. Do not get out unless specifically instructed to do so. Getting out of your car during a traffic stop can be perceived as aggressive or threatening.
- Be polite and cooperative. Address the officer as "Officer" or "Sir/Ma'am." Avoid sudden movements.
- When asked for documents, tell the officer where they are before reaching for them ("My licence is in my wallet in my back pocket, may I reach for it?"). Keep your hands visible.
- You may be asked for your licence, rental agreement, and proof of insurance. Provide these calmly.
Road Conditions and Driving Etiquette in the USA
The USA offers some of the world's best driving infrastructure, particularly on major routes. Interstate highways are generally excellent, wide, well-maintained, and clearly signed.
However, the country is vast and diverse, and road conditions can vary significantly depending on where you're driving.
Interstate Highways: America's Road Network Backbone
The Interstate Highway System is the crown jewel of American infrastructure. These limited-access highways connect all major cities and are designated with shield-shaped signs featuring the word "INTERSTATE" and a number.
Understanding interstate numbering helps with navigation: even-numbered interstates (I-10, I-40, I-90) run east-west, whilst odd-numbered interstates (I-5, I-95) run north-south. Three-digit interstates are loops or spurs around cities (I-285 around Atlanta, I-495 around Washington DC). Lower numbers are in the south and west, higher numbers in the north and east.
Interstate exits are numbered based on mile markers, which restart at state borders. This system makes it easy to calculate distances (Exit 45 to Exit 78 is about 33 miles). Most interstates have multiple lanes (often 3-5 in each direction near cities), rest areas every 30-50 miles, and gas stations and food at regular intervals.
Toll Roads and How to Pay
Some states have extensive toll road systems, whilst others have few or no tolls. Major toll roads include the Florida Turnpike, New Jersey Turnpike, Pennsylvania Turnpike, and various tollways around Chicago and other cities.
Toll payment methods vary:
Electronic toll collection: Systems like E-ZPass (Northeast), SunPass (Florida), and FasTrak (California) allow automatic payment via a transponder. Many rental cars come with toll transponders (check with your rental company), and you're billed for tolls plus a daily fee (typically $5-10 per day) when you use them.
Cash lanes: Some toll plazas still accept cash, but these are becoming rarer. Keep small bills and coins handy if driving in toll-heavy areas.
Toll-by-plate: Many modern toll roads are cashless. Cameras photograph your license plate and bill the registered owner – in this case, the rental company, which then charges your credit card plus an administrative fee (often $5-15 per toll).
Lane Etiquette and Highway Driving
American highway driving has some cultural norms that differ from those in the UK:
- Keep right except to pass: On multi-lane highways, slower traffic should stay in the right lanes. The left lane is primarily for passing, though this rule is less strictly observed than in Europe. In some states (like Washington and Massachusetts), it's actually illegal to cruise in the left lane.
- Undertaking is legal: Unlike the UK, passing on the right (undertaking) is permitted on multi-lane highways in the USA. However, it's still safer to pass on the left when possible.
- Following distance: Americans often drive closer together than UK drivers might be comfortable with, particularly in heavy traffic. Maintain a safe distance, but don't leave massive gaps, or other cars will simply merge into them.
- Merging: American drivers generally use "zipper merging", alternating vehicles from each lane when lanes reduce. Don't try to merge early; use the full length of the merge lane and slot in at the end.
City Driving and Parking
Major American cities can be challenging due to traffic volume and complicated parking rules. Parking rules vary enormously by city. Look for posted signs indicating time limits, payment requirements, and restrictions. Common colour codes:
- Red curb: No stopping or parking at any time (fire lane, bus zone, etc.)
- Yellow curb: Loading zone, usually commercial vehicles only
- White curb: Passenger loading/unloading only, short term
- Green curb: Limited-time parking (15-30 minutes typically)
- Blue curb: Disabled parking only (requires proper permit)
Never park in disabled spaces without a valid US disabled permit. The fines are substantial ($250-500), and your car can be towed immediately.
Rural and Mountain Driving
Mountain driving requires special attention, particularly in the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, Cascades, and Appalachians. Roads can be steep with sharp switchbacks and limited visibility. Use lower gears on descents to avoid overheating brakes. Watch for falling rocks, wildlife (deer, elk, moose), and sudden weather changes.
In winter, mountain passes can require snow chains or winter tyres. Some passes close entirely in winter.
If you're driving in mountain areas between November and April, check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out. Rental companies in mountain states like Colorado often offer winter tyre options or AWD/4WD vehicles.
Weather Considerations
The USA's size means you can encounter virtually any weather condition, depending on location and season. Be prepared for:
- Extreme heat: Summer temperatures in the Southwest (Arizona, Nevada, parts of California and Texas) can exceed 110°F (43°C). Ensure your rental has working air conditioning and carry extra water.
- Snow and ice: Northern states and mountain regions get heavy snow. If driving in winter conditions, slow down significantly, increase following distance, and brake gently.
- Severe thunderstorms: Common in spring and summer across much of the country, particularly the Midwest and South. Heavy rain can reduce visibility to near zero. If conditions become dangerous, pull over completely off the road and wait it out.
- Hurricanes: Coastal areas (particularly Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the Atlantic coast) can be affected from June through November. If a hurricane is approaching, follow local evacuation orders immediately.
Fuel in the USA: What You Need to Know
Petrol Grades and Diesel
American petrol stations (called "gas stations") offer several fuel grades:
- Regular (87 octane): Suitable for most vehicles and what you'll typically use. Usually, the cheapest option.
- Mid-grade (89 - 90 octane): Middle tier, not usually necessary unless your rental specifically requires it.
- Premium (91 - 93 octane): Higher grade for performance vehicles. Only use it if your rental manual specifies it.
Most rental cars run perfectly fine on Regular (87). Check the label inside the fuel flap or ask the rental company if you're unsure.
Diesel is clearly marked and typically has a green handle (confusingly opposite to the UK convention). Diesel vehicles are less common in the USA than in Europe, but if you've rented one, the nozzle won't fit a petrol tank, reducing the risk of misfuelling.
Tips for UK Travellers Driving in the USA
- Remember to Drive on the Right: This is the number one habit change. The left-hand drive cars, wide roads, and abundant signage help reinforce the correct side. A simple dashboard reminder note can be helpful for the first few days.
- Miles, Gallons, and Fahrenheit: The USA uses imperial units. For speed limits, this is helpful as you're already used to mph. Weather forecasts: 70°F is pleasant (21°C), 85°F is warm (29°C), 100°F+ is very hot (38°C+).
- Navigation and Apps: Use Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps. All work excellently in the USA with real-time traffic updates. If your UK mobile plan doesn't include USA data roaming, download offline maps before your trip.
- Tipping Culture: Valet parking attendants expect $2 - 5 when they return your car. Car wash staff typically receive $2 - 5.
- Emergency Numbers: Dial 911 for any emergency in the USA (police, fire, ambulance). The emergency services are excellent, and operators speak English.
- Travel Insurance and Health Coverage: The USA does not have reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK. Medical care in America is extremely expensive. Comprehensive travel insurance with high medical coverage (ideally £2 - 5 million minimum) is essential.
Enjoy the Journey, and Final Preparations
Driving a hired car in the USA is one of the best ways to experience the country at your own pace. From interstates that carry you across huge distances to quiet county roads that lead to hidden scenery, a little preparation goes a long way, especially when rules and expectations vary from state to state.
Before you set off, do a final check: full UK licence (and consider whether an international driving permit for the USA is a smart backup for your itinerary), passport, rental agreement/booking confirmation, and proof of insurance. Do a quick walkaround of the car, check fuel level, and make sure you understand how tolls will be handled in the areas you’ll be driving.
One more pro-tip: arrange your protection before you travel. If something small happens, a scratch, a chipped window, or damage in a busy area, high excess payments can quickly turn a great day into a costly one. Gigasure is designed to help make renting worry-free, so you can focus on the trip, not the “what if” scenarios.
So, as you compare car rental prices in the USA and plan your route, take a moment to look at Gigasure’s car hire excess insurance for the USA and get organised before you fly.
Safe travels - and enjoy every mile.
