Can You Drive A Right Hand Drive Car In The US? Everything You Need To Know

Spotting a right-hand drive (RHD) car on American roads can be a curious sight. You may wonder if it is legal to drive a right-hand drive car in the US. The answer is yes, it is legal to drive an RHD car in the United States. However, there are some factors to consider before operating an RHD vehicle on American roads.

According to the search results, there are no regulations prohibiting the use of RHD cars on public roads in the United States. As long as an automobile follows federal emissions and safety standards statutes, it can be licensed and used by anyone holding a driver’s license. However, driving an RHD car in the US can come with some safety and logistical challenges. American cars are generally left-hand drive (LHD), and the traffic flow is designed for LHD vehicles. Therefore, driving an RHD car in the US requires extra attention and caution.

This guide offers a definitive answer to the question of whether you can drive a right-hand drive car in the US. It also explores the factors to consider when operating an RHD car on American roads, including safety and logistical challenges. Keep reading to learn more about driving an RHD car in the United States.

Legality of RHD Cars in the US

If you’re wondering whether you can legally drive a right-hand drive car in the US, the answer is yes. There are no federal laws prohibiting the use of RHD vehicles on US roads. However, there are still some things you need to consider before buying and driving a right-hand drive car in the US.

Federal Regulations

According to federal regulations, as long as an RHD car meets all federal safety and emission standards, it can be registered and driven legally. This means that you’ll need to make sure that your RHD car meets all of the same safety and emission standards as left-hand drive cars.

It’s worth noting that vehicles that are at least 25 years old are exempt from some of the safety and emission standards. This means that you may be able to import an older RHD car from another country and register it in the US without having to make any modifications.

Important Considerations for Driving an RHD Car in the US

If you are considering driving a right-hand drive (RHD) car in the US, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

State-Specific Regulations

While federal law permits RHD vehicles, some individual states might have additional regulations. For example, some states might require temporary import permits for visiting drivers or registration restrictions for permanently imported RHD cars. Before driving an RHD car in the US, it is important to research the specific regulations in your state.

Visibility and Safety Concerns

Driving an RHD car in the US can present some visibility and safety concerns. Limited driver visibility can make turning left at intersections more challenging due to the pillar blind spot on the passenger side. Passengers exiting on the curbside (driver’s side in RHD cars) might need to pay extra attention to oncoming traffic during exiting maneuvers. Additionally, LHD drivers might not anticipate maneuvers from an RHD car, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. It is important to be aware of these concerns and take extra precautions while driving an RHD car in the US.

Importing a Right-Hand Drive Car to the US

If you’re looking to import a right-hand drive car to the US, it’s important to understand the regulations and requirements involved. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Age Requirements

In general, right-hand drive vehicles must be at least 25 years old to be legally imported into the US. This exemption applies to cars considered classics and not intended for everyday use. If you’re looking to import a newer RHD car, you may face more stringent regulations and requirements.

Compliance with US Standards

Before you can legally drive a right-hand drive car in the US, it needs to meet US safety and emission regulations. This may involve modifications to headlights, taillights, speedometer, and other components. Consulting a registered importer or completing the process through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is recommended.

It’s worth noting that while there are no regulations prohibiting the use of RHD cars on public roads in the US, they are relatively rare and may attract attention from law enforcement. Additionally, driving a car with the steering wheel on the right side can take some getting used to, especially when it comes to making left turns or navigating drive-thru lanes.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re considering driving a right-hand drive car in the US, it’s important to know that there are alternatives to importing and driving an RHD vehicle. Here are some options to consider:

Availability of LHD Versions

For some popular RHD models, manufacturers might offer LHD variants specifically designed for the US market. Exploring these options can eliminate the complexities of importing and modifying an RHD car. This can also ensure that the car is compliant with US safety and emissions regulations.

When considering purchasing a car, it’s important to research whether a LHD version is available. This can save you time, money, and the hassle of importing a car from another country. Some popular RHD models that have LHD versions available in the US include the Nissan Skyline, Toyota Supra, and Mazda RX-7.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is legal to drive a right-hand drive car in the US, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. As we’ve seen, state-specific regulations, visibility challenges, and the import process require careful planning.

Before deciding to purchase a right-hand drive car, it’s important to consider whether it will be practical for everyday driving. While driving a right-hand drive car can be a unique and exciting experience, it may not be the most practical choice for everyone.

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