Driving in Los Angeles solo (UK)

Question

I am from the UK and I have never been to the US before. Are there any tips or rules regarding driving in LA that might differ largely from driving in the UK? Will it really be that difficult? Thanks

Answer

Driving in Los Angeles can feel quite different for someone from the UK, especially since you’re used to driving on the left side of the road. While it’s very doable, there are some key differences and tips to keep in mind.

Key Differences:

In the US, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. This affects how you judge distances and navigate intersections.
Traffic lights are usually placed on the far side of intersections, and you can often turn right on red unless a sign specifically forbids it. Be sure to come to a complete stop before doing so.
Speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph), not km/h, so pay attention to signs—residential areas are typically 25–35 mph, freeways 55–65 mph.
Lane markings and signs may differ slightly; for example, solid white lines indicate lanes moving in the same direction, and double yellow lines separate opposing traffic.
Freeways (highways) in LA can be very congested, especially during morning and evening rush hours (roughly 6:30–9:30am and 3:30–7:00pm).

Practical Tips:

Plan your route in advance using GPS or apps like Google Maps or Waze. LA traffic can be unpredictable, and alternate routes may save time.
Allow extra travel time; even short distances can take much longer than expected in heavy traffic.
Use lanes carefully; highways often have multiple lanes and frequent merging. Stay in a lane that matches your exit well in advance.
Parking can be challenging—look for metered spaces, public lots, or hotel parking. Read all signs carefully to avoid fines.
Be cautious of pedestrians, cyclists, and ride-share pick-up/drop-off zones, especially near tourist areas.

Safety Notes:

Always wear your seatbelt; it’s mandatory for all passengers.
Do not use a handheld phone while driving; California law requires hands-free devices.
Be aware of carpool lanes (HOV lanes) which require two or more occupants in the car during peak hours.

Overall, driving in LA is manageable if you stay alert, plan for traffic, and adapt to right-hand driving. The roads are generally wide and well-marked, so with some preparation, it should be a smooth experience.