Driving Tips for the United States

Driving in the United States is more straightforward than many international visitors expect. Roads are well-signed, traffic is organized, and the rules make sense once you know them. However, there are important differences that every non-American driver should understand before hitting the road — and some of them can result in steep fines if ignored. In this complete guide, we cover everything you need to know: from required documentation to practical tips on tolls, GPS, and road etiquette in the USA. Essential reading for anyone renting a car in Orlando and exploring Florida with freedom.

Documentation — Does Your Foreign License Work?

Yes! A foreign driver's license is accepted in Florida — and in the vast majority of US states — for up to 6 months for tourists. You do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) under Florida state law, although it is recommended as an official translation document in case of a police stop.

The IDP is issued in your home country before you travel and serves as a certified translation of your license. It does not replace your original license — it accompanies it. It typically costs between $15 and $30 and is valid for 1 year. The peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment.

To rent a car with BIZ Rent Car, you will need to present your driver's license in person (we do not accept digital photos only). The document must be valid and be a passenger vehicle category or equivalent.

Traffic Rules — Key Differences from Your Home Country

American traffic has some particularities that catch international visitors off guard on their first trip. Knowing them in advance prevents surprises — and fines.

Right Turn on Red

This is probably the most surprising rule for first-time visitors: in the USA, you may turn right at a red light — as long as you come to a complete stop, check that there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk, and confirm the path is clear. This maneuver is legal in all states, except where a specific "No Turn on Red" sign is posted. Pay attention to these signs, as their absence does not automatically mean the turn is permitted at all intersections with special configurations.

Stop Sign — All-Way Stop

Many American intersections have a STOP sign for all directions (all-way stop or 4-way stop). The rule is simple and strictly enforced: the first to arrive goes first. If two or more cars arrive at the same time, the car to the right has priority. Always come to a complete stop — a rolling stop is considered an infraction and can result in a fine. Law enforcement officers observe this rule rigorously.

Speed — Understanding mph

Speed limits in the USA are posted in miles per hour (mph). The most common limits in Florida:

• Urban and residential streets: 25–35 mph (40–56 km/h)
• Boulevards and state highways: 45–55 mph (72–88 km/h)
• Interstates and federal highways: 65–75 mph (104–120 km/h)
• School zones: 15–20 mph when yellow lights are flashing

Speeding fines in Florida are expensive: from $200 to over $500 depending on how far above the limit you were driving, not counting court costs. Fixed speed cameras are common on interstates and busy Orlando boulevards.

School Bus — The Most Important Rule

This is the rule with the most serious consequences for violations: when a yellow school bus stops with its red lights flashing and STOP arm extended, all vehicles in both directions must come to a complete stop — even on the opposite side of the road. You may only proceed once the lights stop flashing and the STOP arm is retracted. The fine is $500 or more, and the incident can go on your driving record. Police and cameras regularly catch violators.

Florida Tolls — How SunPass Works

Florida has an extensive network of toll roads, and the system is 100% electronic — there are no cash toll booths on most highways. This surprises many international visitors.

How the system works:

• SunPass / E-Pass: an electronic transponder affixed to the windshield, similar to systems in other countries. Charges are applied automatically as you pass through the toll gantries. It typically offers a 20–30% discount compared to the full plate rate.
• Toll-by-Plate: for vehicles without a transponder, cameras photograph the license plate and the bill is sent to the vehicle owner afterward. The amount is generally 20–50% higher than the SunPass rate, plus potential administrative fees.

The main toll roads in the Orlando area and nearby destinations:

• FL-408 (East-West Expressway): cuts across Orlando east to west, useful for accessing I-4
• FL-417 (Central Florida Greeneway): fast route to MCO Airport and Disney World
• FL-429 (Western Beltway): access to the western side of Orlando and Kissimmee
• Florida's Turnpike: main highway to Miami — approximately $10–15 in tolls for the full stretch
• I-95 Express Lanes: paid express lanes along I-95 (Miami / Fort Lauderdale)

At BIZ Rent Car, SunPass is already included in all vehicles — you only pay the actual toll amounts used, with no additional administrative fee. Most rental companies charge $5 to $15 per day for the transponder regardless of whether you use it or not. With BIZ, those savings are yours.

GPS and Navigation — Skip the Built-In System

The factory-installed GPS in American rental cars is often outdated — maps that are 2–3 years old do not reflect new construction, detours, or recently opened businesses. Use your phone. The best options:

• Google Maps: best option for routing, real-time traffic information, and searching for businesses. Works well in multiple languages.
• Waze: highly active community in the USA — excellent for speed camera alerts, police on the road, accidents, and road conditions.
• Apple Maps: good integration with CarPlay; has improved significantly in recent years and works well in Florida.

Tips for using GPS in the USA:

• Download Florida maps for offline use before you leave (saves data and works in areas with no signal)
• Set navigation voice in your language to follow instructions without distraction
• Always enter the full address: number + street name + city + state (e.g., "4600 World Drive, Orlando, FL")
• Pay attention to highway exit numbers — on American interstates exits are identified by numbers (Exit 260, Exit 68A), not just street names

Practical road tip: when driving on interstates, avoid the right lane for general travel — it has many on and off ramps. The middle lane is ideal for maintaining a steady speed. The left lane is reserved for overtaking; it is improper to drive slowly in it.

Safety and Road Etiquette Tips

Beyond mandatory rules, there are etiquette practices every driver in the USA follows — and they make road-sharing much more pleasant:

• Seatbelts mandatory: all passengers, including rear-seat passengers. Fine: starting at $30 per unbelted passenger.
• Child car seat: required for children under 5 years or under 40 lbs (infant/convertible seat). Ages 6 to 12 need a booster seat. BIZ provides car seats free of charge for up to 3 children — just let us know at booking.
• Never drink and drive: tolerance is effectively zero. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is a serious criminal offense in the USA, with arrest, heavy fines, and license suspension.
• Phone while driving: holding your phone while driving is prohibited. Use a windshield mount and hands-free mode.
• Emergencies: call 911. Pull over to the right shoulder with hazard lights on and wait.
• If pulled over by police: pull over immediately to the right, turn off the engine, keep both hands visible on the steering wheel. Do not get out of the car. Wait for the officer to approach you and follow instructions calmly. Present your license, passport, and vehicle documents only when asked.
• Parking: always check restriction signs (No Parking, Tow Away Zone, 2-Hour Parking). Parking in a handicap space without a credential costs $250 or more. Do not park within 15 feet (4.5m) of a fire hydrant.

Summary — Driver's Checklist for the USA

Before hitting the road, keep this checklist handy. With everything in order, you will drive safely and make the most of every mile of your Florida road trip:

• Valid driver's license + passport (physical documents, not photos)
• Car with SunPass included — already in the package with BIZ
• GPS set in your language with offline maps downloaded
• Vehicle insurance included — verify coverage before you go
• Car seat properly installed if traveling with children
• Know the key rules: all-way stop sign, right on red, school bus
• SunPass app installed on your phone to track toll charges
• Rental company number saved in your phone for emergencies (BIZ: +1 689 280-6006)

Driving in the USA is an experience that most international visitors love — complete freedom, wide open roads, stunning landscapes, and the convenience of going at your own pace. With the right car and these tips in hand, your Florida road trip will be unforgettable.