Student Blog

Read This Before Driving in the U.S.

April 15, 2025 Comments Off on Read This Before Driving in the U.S.
a woman sitting in a car with a steering wheel

So, you’re moving to the U.S. for school and you’re thinking about driving once you get there. Maybe your campus is far from the city, or you just want the freedom to explore on your own schedule. Either way, before you hit the gas, there are a few important things you really need to know.

1. Can You Legally Drive in the U.S.?

First things first: check if your license is valid in the U.S.

  • Short-term students (under 1 year): You might be able to drive with your home country’s license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP). Think of the IDP as a translation of your license, it makes it easier for U.S. authorities to understand your credentials.
  • Long-term students: If you’re staying for more than a year, you may be required to get a local driver’s license. Driver’s licenses are issued by states, not the federal government. Check if the state you are moving to has a reciprocal driver’s license agreement with your home country. If so, you may not need to get a US license at all, or you could be exempt from taking written or practical tests. Check with the international office and the local DMV for specific questions.

Make sure to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) before applying for a U.S. driver’s license. If you are not eligible for a SSN, you will need to request a Form SSA-L676 from the Social Security Administration before applying for a driver’s license. 

→ How to Apply for a Social Security Number

2. Cars in the U.S.

General Information

The majority of cars in the U.S. have automatic transmission and run on gasoline (also known as petrol). Both gasoline and diesel are available at gas station pumps, so be sure to select the correct fuel. Otherwise you can ruin the engine!

Since the U.S. drives on the right side of the road, American cars have the driver’s seat on the left side. If you’re used to driving on the left side of the road with the driver’s seat on the right (like in the UK, India, or Australia), this will feel very weird at first.

A few tips:

  • Practice in quiet neighborhoods
  • Go slow and stay in your lane
  • Pay attention to signs and follow traffic flow

You’ll adjust faster than you think.

Buying

When buying a car in the U.S., you must register your vehicle before you are allowed to drive it. You will need a valid driver’s license in every state to register a vehicle, although the specifics of sales tax, required documents, and registration fees vary by state. Check with your local DMV for details.

Renting

Many rental agencies require a U.S. driver’s license to rent a vehicle, however some agencies allow you to rent with a foreign driver’s license (we recommend National Car Rental for international students). 

3. Road Rules You Must Know

The U.S. has strict driving rules, and enforcement is taken seriously. Here are a few basics:

  • Speed limits: They are posted on signs and usually enforced pretty strictly. Going too fast can get you a ticket.
  • Stop signs: You must come to a complete stop. No “rolling stops,” even if no one’s around.
  • Right on red: In most states, you can turn right at a red light after stopping, unless a sign says otherwise. Watch out for pedestrians.
  • School buses: If a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop sign extended, you must stop, even if you’re going the opposite direction on a two-lane road.

4. Driving Without Insurance = Big Trouble

Driving in the U.S. requires car insurance, with no exceptions. Whether you’re renting or buying a car, make sure you have at least the minimum required coverage for the state you’re in.

If you’re renting, insurance might be included or available as an add-on. Read the fine print carefully, or call and ask if you’re unsure.

5. Getting Around Without a Car

Still debating whether you even need to drive?

Many U.S. college towns have:

  • Campus shuttles
  • Public buses
  • Biking paths
  • Rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft

If you’re not comfortable driving right away, that’s totally okay. Ease into it, or skip it entirely if it’s not essential for your lifestyle.

Summary

Driving in the U.S. can be super convenient, but it’s also a big responsibility. If you’re unsure, practice with a friend, take a defensive driving course, or start by driving in quiet areas.