North America travel guide
Driving in United States with a foreign licence
IDP recommended
You can drive in United States on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is recommended. Foreign visitors may drive on a valid home licence; an IDP provides a certified translation many rental desks and police prefer.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPRecommended
Minimum age16+
Convention1949 Geneva
On the road
Rules of the road in United States
- Traffic laws vary by state.
- Right turn on red generally permitted after stopping.
- School-bus stop laws strictly enforced.
- Alcohol limit 0.08% (lower for commercial/under-21).
At the rental desk
Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget and National recommend an IDP for non-English licences.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in United States with a foreign licence?
Yes, visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence in United States; carry an IDP if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet.
02
Which side of the road does United States drive on?
United States drives on the right.
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