Drive with a Foreign License in New York
So, you are visiting the United States and would like to drive with a foreign license in New York. Is it possible? Is it legal? Yes and Yes.
Foreign License
The State of New York recognizes your foreign driver license as long as you remain a resident of the nation (ie. Canada, England, etc) that issued the drivers license.
You do not need to have a New York State driver license to drive in State of New York unless you plan to become a resident of New York.
While visiting, please note that your age will play a part in renting a vehicle and you’ll be asked for a credit or debit card to pay for the rental.
Credit cards are best as a debit card takes longer for the unused balance to be credited back to you which you may need on your trip here.
International Driving Permit
Your International driving permit ONLY verifies that you hold a valid driver license in your home country. Your foreign driver license (not the International Driving Permit) allows you to drive in New York. You are not required to have an International Driving Permit to drive in New York State, but the permit has value.
The permit verifies in several languages that you have a valid foreign driver license.
If a New York Police Officer who cannot read the language on your foreign driver license, they will be able to read the permit. Drive safely and enjoy New York.
Will you be driving in Canada on your trip? The tips will be helpful to you.
Join us in our New York Forum if you have any comments or questions.
