The United States of America (USA, US or simply: America) is a federal republic located primarily in North America. Composed of 50 states (48 on the mainland that's bordered by Canada to the north, Mexico to the south, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west, the semi-exclave, Alaska northwest of Canada, and the archipelago of Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean), the US one of the largest and most influential countries in the world in terms of economy, military, culture, and politics. Founded in 1776 with the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain, the nation has become a diverse and technologically advanced country.
It houses many iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon and the Golden Gate Bridge, and its capital, Washington, D.C. (though not part of any state, but a federal district and governed by the federal government), is home to the President's residence - The White House, The US Capitol - home to Congress, National monuments and museums - many of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution, and The Supreme Court.
UTC-5 (Eastern) to -10 (Hawaii–Aleutian), daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Due to its diverse geography and climate, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, floods, droughts, and winter storms are likely to happen.
The US enforces laws strictly, and violations can result in immediate fine, even for tourists, which can reach hundreds and even thousands. Though it doesn't have on-the-spot fines, officer may issue citations or tickets for infractions to offenders with instructions on how to pay the fine, which often involves mailing in a payment or paying online. Some parking violations can even result in your vehicle getting towed.
For UK citizens, a visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is required, depending on the purpose and length of stay. If traveling for tourism or business for 90 days or less, an ESTA may suffice as long as the traveller is from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country like the UK.
In the US, vehicles are driven on the right side of the road. The minimum age to drive is usually 16, but you generally need to be at least 21 to rent a car (except for states like New York or Michigan where it is 18). However, drivers under 25 may be charged with an additional fee like the 'young driver surcharge', and would be limited to basic vehicles available. Also, you would require insurance to rent a car (basic liability cover is minimum legal requirement), and when returning a rental; make sure the tank is full beforehand (unless your agreement states otherwise), and inspect for damage and document with photos.
Always stop fully at all stop signs, right turns on red is allowed in many states unless a sign says otherwise, obey parking signs and meters, and never park in front of fire hydrants, in bus lanes, or in handicapped spaces without a permit. And though the US doesn't have national rules about the kind of safety gear you should keep in your vehicle, as it varies per state, but warning triangles, high-vis, and first aid kits might still be required.
Fuel is sold by gallons (1 gallon = ~3.78 litres) where most gas stations are self-service, and payments are made by the pump (credit/debit cards) or inside.
Speed limits can vary significantly between states, with some states like Hawaii having a maximum limit of 60 mph, while others like Texas have some sections (including interstate highways) with 85 mph limits. Also, some states, like Arizona and Florida, may have reduced night-time speed limits on certain roads, especially in areas with wildlife crossings.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 or older, while the limit in Utah is 0.05%. For drivers under 21, the limit is 0.00% - 0.02% depending on state.
When driving, all passengers including driver must be wearing seatbelts.