New to U.S. roads? This quick orientation explains sign types, typical speed limits, and a few city quirks so you can focus on the drive—not the guesswork. Once you pick up your airport Miami car rental or head out from Los Angeles car rental, these basics will keep you confident mile after mile.
Understand U.S. signs at a glance
- Regulatory (black/white or red): Speed limits, stop, yield, one‑way, turn restrictions.
- Warning (diamond): Curves, merges, school zones, deer crossings.
- Guide (green/blue/brown): Exits, services, parks and attractions.
Typical speed ranges
Urban streets often range from 20–35 mph, multilane arterials 35–45 mph, and freeways 55–70+ mph depending on the state. Always follow the posted sign and slow in work zones and school areas. If you’re jumping between states on a Southwest loop—say after your Las Vegas car rental—limits can change quickly at the border.
Right‑of‑way and turning
Unless a sign says otherwise, you may turn right on red after a complete stop—but not in many big‑city cores. In New York City, for example, right‑on‑red is generally prohibited unless a sign permits it. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop for school buses with flashing red lights.
FAQ
- Are speeds in mph? Yes—U.S. signs use miles per hour.
- Do I need an IDP? Many renters can drive with a valid home licence; an IDP is a helpful translation and may be required on multi‑state trips.
- Child seats? Required for young children; specifics vary by state—ask at the counter when you collect your Orlando car rental.
Want more destination ideas? Compare long‑range options from Austin car rental to a cross‑country United States car rental itinerary, then hit the road with insurance included and no hidden fees.
Book with Hola Car Rentals today for Free Cancellation, All‑Inclusive+ rates on select itineraries, and transparent pricing that keeps your trip easy from pick‑up to return.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
Tip: add buffer time for traffic and always read posted signs. With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing, All‑Inclusive+ options on select itineraries, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
