Driving & Rental Cars
A rental car is indispensable in most US regions — outside of New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, the car is the main mode of transport. The USA has an excellent road network, gas is cheap (about $0.90–1.10/liter), and parking is plentiful almost everywhere.
Booking a Rental Car
- Book early: At least 4–8 weeks in advance, even earlier in high season (summer, Thanksgiving, Christmas)
- Major Providers: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National — book through comparison portals (CHECK24, billiger-mietwagen.de)
- Full Coverage without Deductible: A must! Accident costs in the USA can be astronomical. Either directly with the provider (CDW/LDW) or through the credit card (check beforehand!)
- Prices: From about $35–50/day for a compact car, SUVs from $60–90/day. One-way rentals (e.g., LA → San Francisco) often cost an additional $50–150
- Refueling: Self-service (credit card at the pump, enter ZIP code — as a European: try 99999 or pay inside). Gallon ≈ 3.785 liters
Traffic Rules
- No Right of Way from the Left: At intersections with stop signs, "First come, first served" applies — whoever arrived first goes first
- Overtaking on the Right on Highways: Allowed and common (unlike in Germany!)
- School Buses: When a school bus with flashing lights stops, ALL vehicles in BOTH directions must stop. No exceptions — heavy fines!
- Speed: In miles (mph). In town: 25–35 mph (40–55 km/h), highways: 55–75 mph (90–120 km/h). Speed limits are serious
- Alcohol at the Wheel: 0.8 ‰ (depending on the state). DUI (Driving Under Influence) is punished very harshly — just don't do it
- Toll Roads: Many states have toll roads. Some only accept electronic payment (SunPass in Florida, E-ZPass in the Northeast). Check with your rental car provider if a toll transponder is in the car
💡 Tipp
An international driver's license is not legally required in the USA, but it is recommended and required by some rental car companies. Costs about €15 at the road traffic office and is valid for 3 years.
