We've Had Several Enquiries On This .... But ....
We've compared our UK driving licence to our US driver's licence and
have concluded that, as with most things, it's not quite that simple. Why ?
.... because we actually don't have a US driver's licence. Instead, we have
an Illinois driver's licence. In the US, driving is regulated by each state
individually. Many of the rules are the same, or at least similar enough to
get by. Below are the most obvious differences, along with the few links
we've been able to find --- some are very good, and may help ....
"Things to Know" in general about US driving:
Starting with the most obvious -- driving is done on the right side. As our British friends who have taken holiday in Europe know, this isn't that big a deal. Orientation is messed up for a day or two, and you do have to concentrate. It is helpful to have someone with you, reminding you "stay on the right".
Along with this, the driver sits on the opposite side of the car. Actually, this is a big help in staying on the right -- just remember you (as driver) belong in the middle of the road. Also, don't worry about shifting with your right hand -- it is not a problem because any car you hire will be an automatic transmission.
Signage and road markings vary, but in general everything is much better marked than in the UK. Speed limits are posted, usually a big white sign, about every mile. Many of the signs are overhead, especially in busy cities and on the freeway / interstate / motorway. Directional signs are generally green. Stop signs and stoplights are the same, with stoplights normally hanging over the instersection, instead of on a pole. Police and emergency vehicles normally have red lights. Road markings are used less.
Roads are generally wider, and cars bigger. The verge (shoulder) is also wider, especially on secondary ("B") roads.
There is less non-vehicle traffic -- an occassional bicycle, yes -- but horses, back hoe loaders, slow moving motorcycles, hardly ever.
In most states, it is ok to turn right on a red light at an intersection after yielding to traffic coming from the left.
We know this will be a big disappointment, but there are no roundabouts -- Americans complicate their lives in different ways -- stoplights, stop and yield (give way) signs, and complex interchanges (exits and entrances) onto motorways. But really nothing compared to some four lane, 9 spoke, double roundabouts we've experienced here.
Also, there are no zebra crossings. While it's just sensible driving anywhere to watch out for pedestrians, at least you won't have to constantly be looking for the white, black and yellow poles.
Helpful US Driving Links
Looksmart...US States -- Departments of Motor Vehicles Click on the state you will be visiting .... for "their" rules .... some are very good .... Illinois' has an on-line copy of "Rules of the Road" Driving On Line A good article .... written by a recent visitor to the US
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[Hits Since 04/16/00 9:00 GMT -- {or, English Style, 16/04/00}]
