Driving to New York: Laws, Tips, and Tricks

Before setting out on your trip to New York, make sure to plan your route, know the state laws, and get your car insurance policy up to date.
Written by Melanie Johnson
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
While driving in New York is no piece of cake, the city has a network of toll roads that can help you beat the traffic. A road trip to the Empire State should be on your bucket list whether you’re an adventure lover or a culture aficionado. 
Road trips can be short and sweet, or long and luxurious. They may be cross-country or take place all within the same state. A well-planned road trip provides the opportunity to experience several new cities over the course of days or weeks. 
While a road trip to New York is a must if you’re a foodie, a nature buff, or you simply want to experience a different climate and culture, driving in New York can be challenging. The state is home to some of the worst traffic and road conditions in the country.
Have no fear! We've compiled this guide to help you plan your perfect road trip to New York. We’ll discuss New York’s laws, the penalties for breaking said laws, how to plan your route, and how to make sure you’ve got the appropriate
car insurance
for your trip.
icon
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now

The best routes for driving to New York

Whether you’re setting out from across the country or way down south, there’s a road trip route for you. From
California
to
Florida
, here are some popular routes to New York:
  • San Francisco—New York City (46 hours): If you take this route, you’re in it for the long haul! But it’s sure to delight. The trip will last several days, and there are many opportunities for stops along the way. 
  • Denver—Niagara Falls (23 hours): Nature lover? Consider this trek that will take you from the mountains of
    Denver
    to one of the wonders of the world. 
  • Tampa—Syracuse (19 hours): Need a break from the heat? Escape to Syracuse for a change of climate. If you head there in the winter, you’ll likely see snow! 
  • Atlanta—Albany (15 hours): From one state capital to another! History and culture lovers will enjoy Albany’s museums and beloved performance art center.

How good are New York’s roads?

New York consistently ranks in the top 10 states with the worst roads. It’s true, many of New York’s roads and bridges are falling apart. While federal funding has increased to improve road quality, changes may not occur for many years, so stay safe out there! 
It probably comes as no surprise that New York City has some of the worst roads in the state. Its boroughs are loaded with congestion and potholes. 
The borough with the most potholes in NYC is
Queens
, followed by
Brooklyn
—so drive extra cautiously through these places! 

Does New York have toll roads?

You bet! New York has
over30 toll roads
, payable by mail or pass. Cashless tolls are no longer available. 
If you’re planning on staying in New York for an extended period of time, consider enrolling in
E-Z pass
, which will save you money over the long term. Otherwise, your car’s license plate image will be captured, and a toll bill will be mailed to the address on file.

How bad is New York traffic?

New York has some of the worst traffic in the country. In fact, it might have the worst. New York is a popular place. Not only does it have a lot of full-time residents, but many tourists frequent its cities as well. 
The New York cities with the worst traffic are:
Key Takeaway New York has some of the worst roads and traffic in the country. Consider taking toll roads and avoid driving during rush hour to make it to your destination stress-free.
rating reverse-full
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”

What are New York’s speeding laws?

Like most states, New York has two types of speeding laws: basic speeding laws and absolute speed limits. Let’s break these down.
  • Basic speeding law: Prohibits driving at a speed that is "greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions.” For example, driving 50 mph on a bright sunny day may be appropriate, while driving 50 mph during a snowstorm may not be. 
  • Absolute speed limits: If the posted speed limit is 40 mph and you’re driving faster than 40 mph, you could be ticketed. Generally, the maximum speed limit in New York (unless otherwise posted) is 55 mph.
icon
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now

Fines for speeding in New York

Here is a breakdown of fines for driving 10 to 30+ over the posted speed limit:
  • $45–$150 for going up to 10 mph over 
  • $90–$300 for going 10 to 30 mph over
  • $180–$600 for going 30+ over
You may also be required to serve up to 30 days in jail! 
A speeding ticket could add up to
11 points to your driving record.
This will cause your car insurance premium to spike. If you want to enjoy the lowest rates on car insurance, try the
Jerry
app! The comparison shopper and licensed broker can help you find the best deals.

What are New York’s alcohol laws?

Now, let's cover
New York's DUI laws.
New York has two types of alcohol charges: DWIs and DWAIs.
If you’re found driving with a BAC over .08%, you could be charged with a
DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)
.
Potential DWI penalties vary depending on whether it is a first, second, or third offense.
  • First Offense: Fines up to $1,000 and license revocation for at least six months 
  • Second Offense: Five days in jail or 30 days of community service if a prior DWI happened within the last five years
  • Third Offense: 10 days in jail or 60 days of community service if prior DWIs happened within the last five years
You could be charged with a DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) if your BAC is under the legal limit but you’re found to be impaired by drugs or alcohol “to any extent.” DWAIs are typically less severe than DWIs—but you could still face fines up to $1,000, license suspension, and imprisonment. 
In short, alcohol violations have strict consequences, so it’s best to avoid these charges altogether by practicing
safe driving behaviors
. When you’re cruising around New York on your road trip, stay alcohol-free and avoid big fines, license suspension, and jail time. 

Can you use headphones while driving in New York?

It is illegal to wear headphones in both ears while driving in New York. Doing so carries a maximum fine of $150 and up to 30 days in jail. This law applies to all motor vehicles (cars and motorcycles) and bicycles. 
However, New York law does allow driving with a device in one ear, so connecting to your iPhone, MP3 player, or Bluetooth headset is perfectly fine—as long as it’s only in one ear. 

What are some of New York’s best road trips?

Whew, the tough stuff is over! We made it through New York’s laws and penalties. Now we’re on to the fun part—planning your road trip through the Empire State!
If you’re coming from down south, check out our
Florida to New York road trip
for inspiration. Or reverse the direction on our
NYC to Key West road trip
. If you’re cross-country-ing it, check out our list of stops to check out along the way of a
New York to L.A. road trip
Finally, if you’re a foodie (and you should be), check out this New York State foodie road trip that’s sure to leave your belly full and your heart content. 

How to find affordable car insurance in New York

Road trips can rack up a lot of miles on your vehicle, so you’re going to want to make sure you’re protecting your car with the right insurance policy. The Jerry app can help you find a great rate for a price you can’t beat! 
It’s this simple: download the
Jerry
app. In less than 45 seconds, the
trusted comparison tool
collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose from competitive
car insurance
quotes from top insurance companies and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request. 
No long forms. No calling around. No hard work. Just savings. The average Jerry user saves $800+ a year on car insurance.
Jerry
brought my insurance deductible down from $2.5k to $1k without me having to switch companies. I even had a ticket on my record. If it can help me, Jerry will definitely help you save money.” —Maxwell N.
RECOMMENDED
Thousands of customers saved on average $887/year on their car insurance with Jerry
This app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
avatar
Gabriella R.
Find insurance savings
rating primary
4.7/5 Rating on App Store

FAQs

Unsurprisingly, the worst city for driving in New York is New York City, due to its congested, rough roads. Other large cities that are bad for driving are Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany. 
But it’s not all bad! Consider visiting the Finger Lakes region or the Catskill Mountains for some beautiful drives. Just make sure you’re insured with
towing and labor coverage
in case you break down!
Driving from New York City at the bottom of the state to Rochester at the top will take about sixhours, not counting rest stops. That’s about 340 miles. Consider breaking up the trip and stopping in Binghamton along the way. It’s the carousel capital of the world!
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings