Can You Drive A Right Hand Drive Car In US What To Know

Yes, it is completely legal to drive a right-hand drive (RHD) car in the United States. Owners must ensure the vehicle complies with all federal and state safety, emissions, and registration requirements. This legality supports a vibrant community of enthusiasts importing classic JDM models and using specialized vehicles like postal trucks.

Picture this: you’re cruising down a classic American highway, sunroof open, your favorite song playing. But something feels… different. Your hand reaches for the gearshift, and it’s not where you expect. You go to grab a drive-thru coffee, and you’re stretching across an empty seat. You’re driving a right-hand drive car in the United States.

Maybe you’ve fallen in love with a vintage British sports car, a nimble Japanese import, or a rugged Australian 4×4. The question pops into your head: can you drive a right hand drive car in US? The short, reassuring answer is yes, absolutely. It’s 100% legal to own and drive one on American roads. But the longer answer involves a blend of logistics, practicality, and a slight shift in mindset. It’s a unique experience that comes with its own set of charms and challenges.

This guide is your friendly co-pilot. We’ll navigate the rules, the real-world quirks, and everything you need to know to enjoy the unique journey of piloting a right-hand drive car in a left-hand drive world. Whether you’re a curious enthusiast or seriously considering a purchase, let’s get you oriented.

Key Takeaways

• RHD cars are fully legal: No federal law prohibits driving them in the US.
• Registration is generally straightforward: Process it through your local DMV office.
• Exercise extra caution driving: Left turns and toll booths require heightened awareness.
• Insurance can be specialized: Seek providers experienced with right-hand drive vehicles.
• Verify import compliance: Ensure the car meets US EPA and DOT standards.
• Practice in low-risk areas: Adapt to the mirrored controls before busy roads.

The Straight Answer: Legality and Federal Rules

First things first, let’s clear up any legal worries. On a federal level, there is no law prohibiting the operation of a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle on US public roads. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are concerned with whether a vehicle meets US safety and emissions standards, not which side the steering wheel is on.

This means your main legal hurdle is importation and compliance, not daily driving. Once a car is legally imported, registered, insured, and has passed your state’s required safety and emissions inspections, you are free to drive it just like any other vehicle.

The 25-Year Import Rule

For many enthusiasts, the gateway to RHD ownership is the “25-Year Rule.” This is a federal regulation that allows vehicles that are at least 25 years old to be imported into the United States without having to comply with modern FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) and EPA emissions regulations. This is why you see a flood of iconic 1990s Japanese cars (like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, or Mazda RX-7) and classic European models now hitting American shores. Their age makes them exempt, simplifying the process immensely.

For Newer Vehicles

Importing a newer RHD vehicle (less than 25 years old) is a much more complex and costly endeavor. It typically requires “federalization” – a process of modifying the car to meet all current US standards, which is often prohibitively expensive for most individuals. For daily driving, the 25-year rule is the most common path.

The Day-to-Day Reality: Practical Challenges and Solutions

Okay, it’s legal. But what’s it actually like? Driving a right-hand drive car in the US is an exercise in adaptation. Some things become trickier, others become second nature surprisingly fast.

The Big Three: Overtaking, Toll Booths, and Drive-Thrus

These are the most famous challenges.

• Overtaking (Passing): This is the most significant safety consideration. On a two-lane road, your view of oncoming traffic is severely restricted by the car you’re trying to pass. Solution: Extreme caution, patience, and sometimes waiting for a longer straightaway or a third “passing lane.” A willing passenger can be a great spotter.
• Toll Booths: Those baskets and booths are designed for LHD drivers. It’s a comical stretch. Solution: Invest in an electronic toll pass (like E-ZPass) and stick it on your right-hand windshield. Keep a grabber tool in the car for the rare cash toll.
• Drive-Thrus: They are nearly impossible solo. You’ll either be climbing over or using a very long reach. Solution: Park and walk inside. It’s good for you!

Shifting Gears and Spatial Awareness

If you’re driving a manual transmission, you’ll be shifting with your left hand. This feels strange for a day or two, but most people adapt incredibly quickly. Your brain rewires itself. More importantly, you need to recalibrate your sense of where the car sits on the road. You are seated about two feet further right than you’re used to. This affects:

• Lane Positioning: You might feel like you’re too close to the center line initially. Use the lines on your side of the car (the passenger side in a normal car) as your guide.
• Parking and Curb Judgement: Judging the distance to the curb on your left (driver’s side) is the new challenge. Take it slow until you build a new mental map.

Why Would Anyone Want a Right-Hand Drive Car?

Given the hassles, why does anyone bother? The reasons are passionate and varied.

The Enthusiast’s Heart: JDM, Classics, and Uniqueness

For many, it’s about the car itself. The Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) scene is huge. Cars like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Subaru WRX STI, or Toyota Land Cruiser have legendary status. A RHD configuration is part of their authentic, unmolested charm. The same goes for classic British cars like Minis, MGs, and Jaguars. Driving them in RHD is part of the experience, a connection to their heritage.

The Practical Niche: Mail Carrier Vehicles

Outside of enthusiast circles, the most common RHD vehicles on US roads are former postal service jeeps and trucks, like the Jeep DJ-5 or Grumman LLV. These are purchased at auction by rural mail carriers who need to access roadside mailboxes without leaving the vehicle. For them, RHD isn’t a hobby; it’s a perfect tool for the job.

The “Cool Factor” and Conversation Starter

Let’s be honest: a RHD car turns heads. It’s an instant conversation starter at gas stations and car shows. It signals that you’re a specific kind of car lover, one who values something different from the mainstream.

Insurance, Registration, and Maintenance

The practicalities of ownership extend beyond the driver’s seat.

Finding the Right Insurance

Not every insurance company is familiar with or willing to insure a right-hand drive car. You’ll need to seek out specialty insurers or providers who cater to classic, exotic, or imported vehicles. They will understand the unique value and usage patterns. Be prepared to provide documentation about the car’s import legality and may face slightly higher premiums due to the specialty nature and potential parts scarcity.

The Registration Process

This varies by state but generally follows this path: Once the car clears US Customs, you’ll receive the necessary paperwork (HS-7 form for EPA, DOT HS-10 form). You then take this, along with the foreign title/bill of sale, to your local DMV. They will likely require a VIN inspection to ensure it matches the paperwork. After paying fees and taxes, you’ll get your US title and plates. Some states may require a safety inspection at this point.

Parts and Service

This is a crucial consideration. For a classic British car or a 90s JDM icon, parts may not be on the shelf at your local AutoZone. You’ll rely on a network of specialist suppliers, online forums, and dedicated import shops. Building a relationship with a knowledgeable mechanic is worth its weight in gold. Simple maintenance you can do yourself, but for major work, find an expert.

Data at a Glance: RHD vs. LHD in the US

Let’s break down some key comparisons in a simple format.

Aspect	Right-Hand Drive (RHD) in US	Standard Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Legality for Driving	Fully Legal (if legally imported)	Standard
Primary Driver Position	Right side of vehicle	Left side of vehicle
Ease of Overtaking	More Difficult (limited view)	Standard
Toll Booth / Drive-Thru Convenience	Low (requires adaptation)	High (designed for LHD)
Lane & Curb Judgement	Requires recalibration (centerline feels closer)	Instinctive for most US drivers
Vehicle Availability & Cost	Specialty market; varies by model	Widely available; market rates
Insurance	Specialty providers often needed	Widely available from all providers
“Cool Factor” / Uniqueness	Very High	Standard

Tips for Your First Drive (And Beyond)

Ready to take the wheel? Here’s some hard-won advice.

Start in a Safe, Empty Space

Before hitting traffic, find a large, empty parking lot. Practice driving, turning, and parking. Get a feel for the new sight lines and where the corners of the car are. Practice shifting with your left hand until it stops feeling alien.

Use Your Passengers

On early drives, a trusted passenger in the left seat is invaluable. They can help with blind spots, lane changes, and judging distance to the left-side curb. They are your temporary co-pilot.

Master the “Angle Park” for Drive-Thrus

If you absolutely must use a drive-thru solo, approach the window at a sharp angle, getting your right-front corner as close as possible. It’s awkward, but it works better than going straight on.

Embrace the Difference

Don’t fight it. The novelty is part of the fun. Enjoy the smiles and waves. Accept that some tasks (like a left-turn across traffic) require extra patience. You’re not just driving a car; you’re having an experience.

The Final Verdict: A Rewarding Adventure

So, can you drive a right hand drive car in US? Without a doubt. The journey is less about a simple “yes” or “no” and more about understanding what that “yes” entails. It’s a commitment to a different way of driving, rooted in a passion for specific machines.

It asks for your patience at toll booths and your caution on two-lane highways. In return, it offers a visceral connection to automotive history, the joy of owning something truly unique, and the simple satisfaction of mastering a new skill. For the right person, the occasional stretch for a cheeseburger is a small price to pay for the daily grin that comes from sitting on the “wrong” side of a car you truly love. It’s not for everyone, but for those it calls to, it’s an incredibly rewarding adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to drive a right-hand drive car in the US?

Yes, it is generally legal to drive a right-hand drive car in the United States. There are no federal laws prohibiting them, but the vehicle must comply with all applicable safety and emissions standards.

What are the challenges of driving a right-hand drive car in the US?

Common challenges include difficulties at toll booths, drive-thrus, and parking meters designed for left-hand drive vehicles. Additionally, reduced visibility when passing or merging lanes requires extra caution from the driver.

Do I need special insurance for a right-hand drive car in the US?

Typically, no special insurance is required, but you should disclose the vehicle’s configuration to your insurer. Standard auto policies usually cover right-hand drive cars as long as they are legally registered and operated.

Can you import a right-hand drive car to the US?

Yes, you can import a right-hand drive car, but it must meet US safety and emissions regulations. Vehicles over 25 years old are often exempt from certain standards under the “25-year rule.”

How does driving a right-hand drive car affect overtaking on highways?

Overtaking can be more challenging due to the driver’s position on the right, limiting visibility of oncoming traffic. It’s essential to use passing lanes carefully and ensure clear sight lines before maneuvering.

Are there any state restrictions for a right-hand drive car in the US?

No, all 50 states allow right-hand drive cars, as there are no statewide bans. However, it’s wise to verify with local DMVs for any specific registration or inspection requirements.