Driving in United States — International Driving Permit guide
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Driving in United States

Classic road trip destination. Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway, and countless scenic drives await.

Photo: Omer Rana / Unsplash

Quick Facts

IDP Status
IDP Required
Driving Side
Right

Speed Limits

40-56
Urban
40-56 km/h (25-35 mph)
89-105
Rural
89-105 km/h (55-65 mph)
105-130
Highway
105-130 km/h (65-80 mph)

Country Travel Guide

United States spans a continent with incredible diversity—from New York skyscrapers to Grand Canyon depths, Hawaiian beaches to Alaskan wilderness. This vast nation invented the road trip, and its highways offer endless exploration.

The classic American road trips beckon: Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles through heartland America, Pacific Coast Highway along California's dramatic coastline, and the Blue Ridge Parkway through Appalachian autumn colors.

The national parks represent America's "best idea"—Grand Canyon's layered depths, Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, Yosemite's granite cliffs, and Zion's red rock canyons. The parks system protects extraordinary landscapes across the country.

New York City pulses with energy from Manhattan skyscrapers to Brooklyn neighborhoods. Los Angeles sprawls with Hollywood dreams and beach culture. San Francisco charms with hills, bridges, and tech innovation. New Orleans jazzes with unique culture and cuisine.

Regional diversity spans New England fall foliage, Florida beaches, Texas vastness, the Rocky Mountains, and the Pacific Northwest's green landscapes.

American cuisine varies enormously by region—New York pizza, Southern barbecue, Tex-Mex, California farm-to-table, and New Orleans Cajun/Creole traditions. Craft beer and wine regions have flourished nationwide.

Driving in the USA is on the right with extensive interstate highways and scenic byways. An International Driving Permit is recommended for most foreign visitors. Distances are vast—plan accordingly. Speed limits and traffic laws vary by state.

Top Driving Destinations

1
Route 66
2
Pacific Coast Highway
3
Blue Ridge Parkway
4
Going-to-the-Sun Road

Driving Tips

Always carry your IDP along with your national license
Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules
Check insurance requirements when renting a car
Observe local speed limits

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an IDP to drive in United States?

Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to drive in United States. The IDP works alongside your national driving license.

Which side of the road do they drive on in United States?

In United States, traffic drives on the right side of the road.

What are the speed limits in United States?

Speed limits in United States: urban areas — 40-56 km/h (25-35 mph), rural roads — 89-105 km/h (55-65 mph), highways — 105-130 km/h (65-80 mph).

How do I get an IDP for United States?

You can get your IDP online through our website in just a few minutes. You'll need a photo and your national driving license details.

Ready to travel to United States?

Get your International Driving Permit in minutes and start exploring!

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Useful Information

Country CodeUS
Drive onRight
IDP StatusRequired
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