Differences in Driving in the U.S. and Other Countries

As globalization continues to deepen, more people are choosing to embark on self-drive trips in the United States. However, significant differences exist between U.S. traffic regulations and driving customs compared to other countries. This article explores these variations in detail, covering driving direction, driver's licenses, speed limits, traffic signs, fines, and driving etiquette to help potential drivers prepare adequately.

Driving Direction

1. Road Driving Direction

In the United States, all drivers must keep to the right side of the road. This contrasts with countries like the United Kingdom and many of its former colonies (including Australia, India, and South Africa), which follow left-side driving. Globally, 77 countries and regions drive on the left, while 203 (70% of the world) drive on the right — the U.S. being among the latter.

Driver's Licenses

2. Obtaining a License

In the U.S., teenagers aged 15 and above can typically obtain a learner's permit. The minimum age for a full license varies by state, generally ranging from 16 to 18 years. Learner's permit fees are relatively low, usually around $20. By comparison, India's license fee is as low as $2.67, while Norway's exceeds $3,600 due to stringent training requirements and high industry wage levels. Most U.S. jurisdictions accept International Driving Permits (IDPs), which come in two main types when paired with a valid domestic license.

Speed Limits

3. Speed Limit Regulations

Speed limits in the U.S. are determined by state laws, typically ranging from 25 to 85 mph (approximately 40 to 137 km/h). Urban and rural areas have different limits, though most highways average 70 mph (about 113 km/h). Other countries generally measure speed limits in kilometers per hour: Poland's maximum is 140 km/h; Germany, France, and Italy cap at 130 km/h; while Argentina and Venezuela set highway limits between 120-130 km/h.

Traffic Signs

4. Understanding Traffic Signs

The most recognizable U.S. traffic sign is the red-and-white octagonal "STOP" sign. Similar signs exist worldwide to alert drivers. Many countries also feature warning signs for pedestrians, animals, or accident-prone areas, like America's bear crossing signs or Russia's wolf icons. Different shapes and colors convey distinct meanings: red and yellow typically indicate warnings, green and blue provide information, while white signs with black text denote regulatory instructions.

Fines

5. Traffic Violation Penalties

The U.S. has numerous traffic laws and corresponding fines. Common violations include:

Drunk driving: $200-$500
Speeding tickets: Varies by state, averaging $150
Illegal parking: $10-$50, depending on city size
Expired license: Minimum $50, up to $25,000 for severe cases
Passing a school bus (while loading children): Up to $1,000

International visitors are advised to purchase travel, student, or other international medical insurance.

Driving Etiquette

1. Headlight Flashing and Honking

Flashing headlights is considered impolite in the U.S., as it can impair oncoming drivers' vision and judgment. While Europeans use this method to warn others of speed traps or police checks, the practice isn't accepted in America. If confronted with flashing lights, drivers should focus on the white lane markers rather than responding directly.

Honking is also uncommon in the U.S., especially at night — some cities even impose fines for nighttime horn use. Generally, horns should only signal emergencies.

2. Pedestrians

U.S. pedestrian crossings differ from Britain's zebra crossings or Australia's pedestrian signs. Beyond the typical thick white stripes, many American crossings feature a newer design with approximately 6-foot gaps between two white lines. While most crossings are near traffic signals, U.S. law permits pedestrians to cross at any intersection, even without marked crosswalks.

3. Right of Way

Right-of-way rules in the U.S. apply to all vehicles, including bicycles. The hierarchy prioritizes pedestrians first, cyclists second, and motor vehicles last. In the Netherlands, bicycles outnumber people and cars combined, while China, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Finland, and Denmark are seeing growing bicycle adoption over driving.

4. Intersection Navigation

Intersections come as three-leg, four-leg, multi-leg, or roundabouts. These may be controlled by traffic signals or signs; unregulated intersections prove more challenging. In the U.S., the first vehicle to arrive or the one on the right has priority, with all drivers obeying "STOP" and "YIELD" signs. Roundabouts require entering from the right lane and proceeding counterclockwise.

While roundabouts remain relatively new in North America, France and Spain have many more. The U.S. has just 73 roundabouts per million people, compared to Spain's 591 and France's 967.

The Driving Experience

1. Scenery

Major cities offer bright lights and busy streets, but beyond urban areas lie expansive green plains, mountain ranges, and stunning coastlines. American highways follow a grid layout, with city blocks typically arranged in right-angled patterns surrounded by streets.

2. Fuel and Facilities

Americans call gasoline "gas," unlike other countries' "petrol." The U.S. boasts over 115,000 gas stations, often featuring convenience stores and dining options. Europe favors diesel vehicles more heavily. Electric and alternative energy vehicles are growing on both continents, with the U.S. currently hosting more than 41,000 charging stations.

While many driving principles are universal, the details often differ significantly between the U.S. and other countries. For those planning to drive in America, don't be overly concerned about these variations — embrace the experience to enhance your driving skills and enjoy spectacular journeys.