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 so be sure to have it with you at all times when operating a vehicle. You are not required to have an International Driving Permit to drive in New York State, but the permit has value as the permit verifies in several languages that you have a valid foreign driver license.
If a New York Police Officer cannot read the language on your foreign driver license, they will be able to at least read the International Driving Permit. Drive safely, park legally and enjoy New York and read the tips about driving in Canada if you will visit there after your trip to New York.
Join us in our New York Forum if you have any comments or questions.
Stephan Pringle
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