1. Driver’s License

To operate a motor vehicle in any of the New England states you will need a current driver’s license from your home state or country. Most rental agencies also ask to see the passports of foreign nationals.

2. Renting a Car

Most cities have car rental agencies, but the fullest choice is at airports. Drivers must be between the ages of 25 and 75. Apart from your driver’s license, you will need a major credit card as a deposit (very few rental agencies accept cash). Even if you are covered under your personal insurance, you should generally accept the Collision (or Loss) Damage Waiver to avoid financial entanglements in case of an accident.

Avis • 800 331 1212 • www.avis.com

Budget • 800 527 7000 • www.budget.com

Enterprise • 800 736 8222 • www.enterprise.com

Hertz • 800 654 3131 • www.hertz.com

National • 800 227 7368 • www.nationalcar.com

Thrifty • 800 847 4389 • www.thrifty.com

3. Fuel

Most motor vehicles in New England run on 87 octane “regular” gasoline (petrol). Fuel is sold by the gallon and is usually pumped by the driver after leaving cash or a credit card with an attendant. If driving in winter, be sure to have a full tank before setting out in case of emergency.

4. Speed Limits

Speed limits (always in miles per hour) vary widely. Limited-access highway speeds are generally 55–65 mph; other highways 40–55 mph. Municipal speed limits are 20–30 mph.

5. Parking

Parking is extremely limited in urban areas; many zones are reserved for residents with permits. Meter parking is usually 25 cents to a dollar per hour. Most meters only accept quarters; some will also take credit cards.

6. Traffic Circles

By law, vehicles already on the circle always have the right of way. However, in practice, never assume the other driver will do the right thing.

7. Traffic Signals

Traffic signals are uniform throughout New England: stop on red, go on green, use caution on amber. A dual amber and red light indicates a pedestrian crossing. All New England states permit a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop and ensuring that there is no oncoming traffic.

8. School Zones and Pedestrians

Not all states give pedestrians the automatic right of way, but it’s best to let walkers safely cross, even if they are not in marked crosswalks. Always stop at least 100 ft (30 m) from a stopped school bus, especially if its flashers are operating.

9. Weather

Snow and ice make driving treacherous. Slow down and keep a greater-than-usual distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Be aware that road surfaces on bridges may be glare ice when the surrounding highway is otherwise fine. If you’re renting a vehicle, make sure you have a spare tire, jack, and road flares in case of breakdown.

10. Wildlife

There are many wild animals in New England’s countryside. Brake but do not swerve for small animals like chipmunks and squirrels. Anything larger (like a deer) could cause serious damage on impact; slow down and be prepared to stop.