Driving in Florida & USA: A Guide for UK Visitors

Hey there, welcome to our latest blog post!

In this post, we’re going to provide you with lots of information on driving in the USA, particularly in Florida.

These are tips we have picked up along the way from our time visiting the Sunshine State

We understand that many of our UK viewers have concerns and questions about driving in America (just as we had on our first trip out there), so we’re here to ease those worries and equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need to navigate the American roads.

Let’s dive into the various aspects of driving in the USA, from preparation to practical tips.

Preparing for the Road

Before you hit the road, there are several essential preparations to make. Let’s start with some key points to keep in mind:

Filling Up with Fuel

When it comes to filling up your car in the USA, there are some distinct differences from the UK.

You’ll usually need to prepay for fuel either using a credit card or cash (all gas stations we have used have always taken money if you prefer to use money)

The pump will stop at the amount you’ve paid for, which can be convenient.

There are more and more pumps that have card machines as they do in the UK where you can just insert your card and use your pin number

Additionally, the colors of the petrol pumps are opposite to those in the UK, so it’s important to pay attention to the color coding to avoid putting the wrong fuel in your vehicle.

It’s an easier option to pay for a full tank of petrol so you drive your car away full from the rental garage.

Just check what the charge is as it can be more expensive than filling yourself up but it does take the hassle away for the first few days while you get used to driving.

Understanding the Vehicle

If you’re renting a car, you’ll be pleased to know that most rental cars in the USA are automatic.

This means no more dealing with gear sticks and clutch control. It’s a simple and stress-free driving experience, especially for those used to driving an automatic at home.

If you aren’t used to an automatic car then don’t worry, it’s much easier than a manual and you should be able to get used to it very quickly.

You don’t need to think about gears, just the brake and the accelerator pedal.

Once you choose your car, don’t rush. Take your time and familiarise yourself with the new vehicle.

Find everything you think you will need when you are on the road, including indicators, screen wash, sat nav controls, and make sure your mirrors are set.

Get your paperwork ready to show at the booth on the drive-out.

No one is rushing you at this stage so take as much time as you like before you head out of the parking garage.

Car Internals and Technology

Each car may have a different internal configuration, but most modern rental cars are equipped with features like Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

These systems allow you to connect your phone to the car, providing access to navigation, music, and other useful functions. It’s like having your own familiar technology at your fingertips.

If you don’t use your phone for sat nav then you can pay extra to rent a sat nav unit from the car rental company.

If you want more information on using your phone as a free sat nav then watch our video below.

If you want to avoid toll roads then you can set Android auto to avoid them in the settings.

Navigating the American Roads

Once you’re on the road, there are several practical tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth driving experience. Let’s explore some of these tips:

Leaving Orlando Airport

This section is for readers who hire a car from Orlando International Airport.

The first thing to remember about driving in the USA, which seems obvious, you are going to be driving on the right-hand side of the road. Just keep in your head “Keep right” and you should get used to it in no time.

As you leave the car pick-up terminal at Orlando Airport, it puts you straight onto a highway.

Try not to panic if it is your first time. If you take the wrong turn (which we have done before) it’s not the end of the world. The Sat nav will just reroute you.

Reading Street Signs

In the USA, street signs can be a bit different from what you’re used to in the UK. When you come to a junction, the sign above indicates the street you’re crossing, not the one you’re on.

This can be a bit confusing initially, but it’s important to understand this aspect of American street signage.

Roundabouts and Traffic Lights

Roundabouts, or as they’re called in the USA, traffic circles, are rare in the Orlando area. However, when you do encounter them, they operate similarly to those in the UK (apart from the opposite way)

When it comes to traffic lights, some differences can make driving a bit easier. For example, in certain situations, you can turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided it’s safe to do so and there aren’t any signs saying you can’t.

Lane Discipline

It’s common for tourist drivers in the USA to drift from one lane to another if they are used to driving on the left side of the road, especially when driving higher vehicles.

This can take some getting used to, but following the lead of other drivers and staying aware of your position within your lane can help you navigate multi-lane roads more comfortably.

Wrapping Up

Driving in the USA, particularly in Florida, offers a unique experience for UK visitors which can be enjoyable for everyone.

It opens up Orlando and Florida to more than just the theme parks and gives you a chance to go and explore

By being prepared and understanding the differences in driving practices, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable time on American roads. The main thing we would say is just take your time. There is no rush.

Get used to the car and take it slow on the roads until you get used to everything.

We find driving in the USA is usually much easier than in the UK as the roads are so big and straight and there are many more lanes to drive in.

We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and practical tips for your upcoming driving adventures in the USA. You can watch our first driving tips video on our YouTube channel below

Extra Tips

Unlock FREE Additional Driver Benefits for Married Couples

A lot of the car rental companies will include in all their rentals your spouse to drive for free as a driver.

This does not count as an additional driver. If you are a married couple and you’re driving in America, don’t pay for one additional driver and pay the extra premium.

The rental companies will offer a spouse to be added free of charge. And a lot of the major companies like Avis and Alamo do offer that.

But check their website to make sure that it is included for your rental and in your location.

Yellow School Buses

When driving on American roads, it’s important to understand the rules regarding school buses.

If a school bus is parked, you are allowed to overtake it. However, if the bus is stopped with its stop sign out and lights flashing, it is against the law to overtake it, regardless of the lane you are in.

All traffic behind the school bus in all lanes must wait until the lights have stopped flashing and the stop sign has been retracted.

This is crucial for the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus and crossing the road

The Essential Items Every Driver Must Always Keep in their Car

You must carry your driver’s license and your car insurance in the car. If you are in a rental car, your rental agreement is effectively your insurance policy.

So just keep the forms handy when you are out in the car, in the glove compartment, etc.

Don’t Get Duped by Extra Charges!

When you are picking your car up, don’t sign anything until you can make sure that the money on your rental agreement matches what you’ve booked in advance because they can try and add extras that you don’t need and ask questions that you agree to.

It can mean extra chargers per day on top of what you have agreed to already pay.

Once you sign those agreements on those digital displays, you’ve agreed to it and there is no going back.

Try and check-in online if you can because you skip all that.

Be vigilant when you are signing anything at the car rental booths and question anything you aren’t sure about

Have Fun

Remember to have fun. The freedom of renting your own car is a great addition to a USA trip.

Let us know in the comments below any other driving tips you may have

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