Keep in mind that in the USA, cars drive on the right side of the road. You must be aware of all applicable local, state, and federal driving laws if you intend to drive in the United States. Consult the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the state where you intend to drive for the best advice. You must have insurance to protect you and any passengers when you buy an automobile. Never drive after consuming alcohol, and avoid riding in the car with someone who has. Always buckle up in a car.
Also Read:- How To Pass A DMV Driving Test On Your FIRST Attempt
Departments of Motor Vehicles in your area (DMV)
You can look up nearby DMV offices online or by going to the state’s official DMV website. Please see our website’s Resources section for more information about the DMV and driving in the US.
International Driver’s Licence
We strongly advise you to obtain an international driver’s licence before departing your native country if you plan to drive in the United States. One is unavailable in the US. Your international driver’s licence may be valid in any state for up to a year, depending on the day you get it.
Foreign Driver’s Licence (Home Country Driver’s Licence)
Foreign driver’s licences are accepted in every state in the US. Most of the time, your licence will remain in effect for up to 4 months following the day you enter the country. To confirm the duration of validity and the requirements for operating a vehicle with a foreign driver’s licence, contact the DMV in the state where you desire to drive. If your international passport is present, your foreign driver’s licence is valid.
Obtaining a Driver’s License in the U.S.
To ascertain whether you are qualified to submit an application for a U.S. driver’s licence, get in touch with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the state where you will be working. If you meet the requirements, get a copy of the state driver’s manual from the DMV so you may learn the laws of the road and prepare for the written and driving tests. Find out what paperwork you must submit to the DMV when you apply for a licence.
To apply for a state licence, you will likely need to present the following records, at the very least:
- Passport
- Home country driver’s licence
- International driver’s licence
- Social Security card
A specific driver’s licence is needed to operate a motorcycle, and several states have legislation requiring helmet use. If you are involved in an accident while operating a motorcycle, InterExchange’s accident and sickness insurance will not protect you.
What to Do in the Event of a Car Accident
Find out if anyone is hurt if there is an automobile accident. Dial 911 from any phone if someone needs medical help or to report an accident. Anywhere in the United States, dial 911 for free direct access to local police emergency services. If at all possible, wait for the police to come and survey the scene of the collision before moving your automobile. Share the following details with the driver of the other car as you wait for the police:
- Name, telephone number and licence ID number.
- Licence plate number, model and year of the car.
- Registration number and expiration date.
- Name of the insurance company and policy number
If there are any witnesses, get their names, contact information, and address in case there are any insurance issues. This is especially important after a hit and run crash as they may be able to provide information which you may not have been able to catch. Take photos of the accident scene and damage if your phone has a camera. You must leave your name, phone number, and licence plate number on a piece of paper under the windshield wiper if you strike a parked automobile so the owner may get in touch with you. Record the car’s model and licence plate number as well.
It is illegal to fail to leave your details or report the accident.
Ensure that any vehicle you drive has insurance that will protect you in the event of an accident, whether you are the driver or a passenger.
Any penalties for moving offences or parking tickets are your responsibility. Your future chances of obtaining a visa to the United States may be hampered if you don’t pay these fines.
Also Read:- How To Pass Driving Test NSW
Use Extra Caution
- Observe the posted speed limits.
- Observe marked roads only.
- Be mindful of any unusually bad weather or deteriorating road conditions, such as snow, ice, fog, flooding, or detours or construction.
- Be especially cautious around school buses.
- obey parking regulations
- Pay attention to crosswalks and pedestrians.
- Never blindly trust GPS. To avoid risk, pay attention to the signs that say “Road Closed” and “Bridge Out.”
