Driving around the USA is highly recommmended but it is important to be familiar with the rules and regulations which no doubt will be different to your own country. You can use this free driving guide to learn the essentials before your trip to make your driving experience in the USA as stressless as possible.

The Americans have some different terminology when it comes to some aspects of your hire car but most will be familiar. For starters it’s not a car but an auto and you fill it with gas and not petrol, the car has a trunk not a boot and the bonnet is a hood. Finally the car comes with a windshield as opposed to a windscreen. The road rules will also be different to what you are used to so when you pick up your hire car take your time and get advice from car rental agent. There is usually some useful leaflets at the desk to take away with you which give advice on speed limits, parking restrictions and other essentials.

In some parts the signposts aren’t the best to rely on for directions so a map would be a good idea, or even better would be a sat nav. You can hire a sat nav for the USA from our website to take with you as it isn’t usually possible to book one in advance. Please also take a look at our pricing comparison table for rates which are over 50% cheaper than the car hire companies. If you decide to opt for the map the directions at junctions give road numbers and compass headings so it would be a good idea to prepare your route before you embark on your journey. If you do get lost and need directions then make sure you pull over in a built-up and well-lit area or a gas station to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car crime.

Most cars in the US are quite large but this is not as daunting as it sounds because the roads and parking spaces are subsequently bigger as well. Automatic vehicles are also very popular in the states which makes for a more pleasurable driving experience. Please note that cars in the US indicator lights are also different, the brakelight doubles up as the indicator and flashes to notify other drivers the vehicle is turning.

The motorways or freeways as they are known in the USA often have a dedicated lane called a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane. This is to be used only by cars with a minimum number of passengers (plus the driver) at peak times to help with congestion. Be aware of these lanes as you will be served a fine if they are used illegally.

Other important information:

1. Parking restrictions are in force where indicated with painted kerbs.
2. The drink driving limit in the USA is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.
3. The motorway speed limit is 113 KPH or 70 MPH.
4. The open road speed limit is 105 KPH or 65 MPH.
5. The built up area speed limit is 48 KPH or 30 MPH.
6. When you need to re-fuel you car you must pay before filling.
7. All seat belts are compulsory.
8. Children must be at least 4 years old to ride in the front seat.
9. Generally right turns are allowed at red traffic lights.
10. There are no roundabouts, instead there are multiple junctions. The driver who arrives first has priority.
11. If a school bus is stationery with it’s lights flashing then you must stop behind it.