A handful of states—but not New York—require international travelers to have an international driving permit (IDP) to drive legally.
Visitors from out-of-country who plan to drive will need an IDP to drive in the following states:
Note that in some states where IDPs aren’t required, if you’re staying for more than 90 days, you’ll have to obtain a permit.
You should review New York’s texting and driving laws and move over laws before they visit. You may want to read up on how to drive in Manhattan, too!
Knowing the international driving requirements in the state you plan to visit can save you from potential fines for not following the rules. But it’s equally important to ensure you have car insurance coverage abroad, too—here’s how it could play out if you need to buy a local policy.