From London to Los Angeles, Edinburgh to New York, a US road trip can be a very different driving experience for someone used to UK roads. You will be driving on the right-hand side of the road, navigating different road signs, and potentially crossing several states during one journey.
If you're planning to rent a car in the United States, your UK driving license is an important document to have with you. Depending on your destination, rental provider, and travel circumstances, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can also provide a standardized way to present your driving information.
Preparing the right documents before you leave the UK means you can spend less time dealing with paperwork after landing and more time getting on the road.
Can You Drive in the USA With a UK License?
Yes, you can generally drive in the USA with a valid UK driving license. If you're asking can I drive in the USA with a UK license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can make it easier to present your driving information while travelling, especially when renting a car.
Before your trip, make sure you have:
- Valid UK driving license: Carry your original license with you while driving.
- International Driving Permit: Use your IDP alongside your UK license as a standardized translation of your driving information.
- Rental requirements: Check whether your rental company requests an IDP or other supporting documents.
- State requirements: Review the driving requirements for the US states you plan to visit.
Keeping your UK license and IDP together can help make your driving documents easier to present during your USA trip.
Can UK Driving License Drive in US?
Yes, a valid UK driving license can generally be used to drive in the USA. However, requirements may vary depending on the state you are visiting and your rental company's rules.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) can also be useful when renting a car or travelling between different states. Carry your IDP together with your original UK driving license.
Driving in the USA: What UK Drivers Should Know
Planning to drive in the USA with a UK license? The biggest adjustment is simple: the USA drives on the right, while the UK drives on the left. Understanding a few key differences can help you feel more comfortable when you get behind the wheel.
What UK Drivers Should Know Before Driving in the USA
Drive on the right: Unlike the UK, vehicles in the USA normally travel on the right-hand side of the road. Take extra care when turning, changing lanes, and joining traffic.
Understand four-way stops: Four-way stops are common in the USA. Pay attention to stop signs and the order in which vehicles arrive at the intersection.
Be prepared for long highways: US highways can cover long distances, particularly on road trips. Speed limits and other driving rules may also vary between states.
Learn common road signs: US road signs may look different from those you are familiar with in the UK. Reviewing common signs before your trip can make navigation easier.
Allow time to adjust: If you are collecting a rental car after a long flight, take a few minutes to get comfortable with the vehicle and driving conditions before starting a long journey.
Carrying your valid UK driving license with an International Driving Permit (IDP) can also help you present your driving information in a standardized format when required.
Do UK Drivers Need an IDP When Renting a Car in the USA?
Yes, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can be a useful document for UK drivers travelling to the USA. It provides a standardized translation of your driving information and can be helpful when renting a car or driving in different states.
Your IDP should always be carried alongside your valid UK driving license and does not replace your original license. Rental companies may also have their own requirements, so it is a good idea to check your booking before travelling.
When renting a car in the USA, keep these documents easily accessible:
- Valid UK driving license
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Passport or required identification
- Rental booking and supporting documents
Having your documents ready can be especially helpful when hiring a car at an airport, travelling between multiple states, or planning a long road trip.
If you're looking for an international driver's license UK option before your trip, you can apply for an IDP online and prepare your driving documents in advance.
How to Get an IDP for Driving From the UK to the USA
If an IDP is suitable for your trip, you can complete the application online rather than making an in-person visit.
The application takes about 5 minutes and can be completed from a phone, tablet, or computer.
Apply Online in a Few Steps
1. Enter your details
Provide your personal information and details from your valid UK driving license.
2. Upload the required documents
Submit your license information and a recent passport-style photograph.
3. Choose your format
Select a digital or print-and-digital option.
4. Select your validity
Choose from available 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year options.
5. Submit your application
Review your information and complete the application.
The service is available to travellers across 189+ countries, making it useful if you plan to drive internationally again in the future.
Choose Your IDP Format, Validity and Pricing
Choose the IDP option that best fits your travel plans:
- Format: Choose Digital for easy access on your phone or Print + Digital if you prefer to carry a physical copy.
- Validity: Available options include 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years.
- IDP pricing: The price depends on the format and validity period you select.
Whatever option you choose, keep your valid UK driving license with your IDP, as the IDP does not replace your original license.
Planning Your First Drive in America?
Your first few miles in the USA may feel different from driving in the UK. Take time to adjust to right-hand traffic, understand the vehicle controls, and review your route before setting off.
For longer journeys, allow time for fuel stops, rest breaks, changing road conditions, and differences between states. Planning ahead can make the transition from UK roads to American roads much easier.
Ready to Prepare Your USA Driving Documents?
Planning to rent a car or explore the USA by road? Start preparing your driving documents before your trip.
The online application takes about 5 minutes, with digital and print-and-digital options available and service covering travellers in 189+ countries.
You can also explore an international driver's license USA online option if you are preparing your documents for driving in America.
If you have questions about the application, available formats, delivery, or IDP pricing, you can contact the support team before applying.
