The world is so big, and everyone wants to see it. But are you really ready to just hop in the car and go? You might have time, money, and travel companions, but the world—and especially North America—is vast. Showing up unprepared won’t do. Don’t worry, Delta Travel has already planned your road trip itinerary for you. All you need to do is sign up, review these road trip tips in advance, and then set off happily.
%Driving License Requirements in North America/
To drive in North America, you must have a valid Chinese driver’s license. However, you can only drive with it in most U.S. states for up to three months. If you plan to stay longer than that, you’re legally required to apply for a valid driver’s license from the state you’re in. Drivers should arrange for an English translation of their license in advance through a car rental company or agency. Processing usually takes about a week, with market prices typically ranging from 200 to 400 RMB.
About Delta’s “U.S. Driver’s License”—an official card-style license recognized by authorities
1. Valid in both the U.S. and Canada, certified by the largest car rental companies in the U.S.;
2. Simple and fast application process—just provide an electronic photo and a copy of your valid Chinese driver’s license, and it’s ready in five working days;
3. A card-style “international driver’s license,” exclusively designed and produced by Delta Travel. It’s convenient to carry, has an international flair, and is definitely presentable;
4. Priced well below market rates, and it’s free when you book a self-drive tour or rental car on the Delta Travel website.
Apply for a U.S. driver’s license here: http://dameiweb.com/travel-supplies/content/id/4
%Which Car Is Right for You?/
When booking a rental car in the U.S., there’s an industry rule: rental companies usually can’t guarantee a specific car model, but they can guarantee the same car class. So if you choose a vehicle category and size in advance, and find differences when picking up the car, the customer service at Delta Travel will inform you in advance so you’re prepared.
For groups of four or fewer, consider compact cars like the Chevrolet Spark. These are stylish and perfect for creative young people, with low energy consumption and excellent fuel efficiency. For groups of 5–7, SUVs are a great option—they combine the comfort of a sedan with some off-road capability and are versatile, such as the highly cost-effective Toyota RAV4. If you want more space for both passengers and luggage, opt for an MPV like the Dodge Grand Caravan or Toyota Sienna. And if you want to make a statement, go for something more luxurious or unique, such as a luxury RV or limousine.
%Insurance for Your Trip—Be Cautious/
If you don’t have your own car insurance in the U.S., you must purchase insurance when renting a car—not just liability insurance, but also third-party coverage. If you drive under the influence, the renter is liable for all losses and damages, and the insurance company won’t cover them. Only drivers explicitly listed at the time of rental are permitted to drive the vehicle; unauthorized drivers are not legally allowed, and insurers may refuse to pay claims.
%Delayed Pick-Up and Return Policies/
If you’re not a “stickler for time” or sometimes lose control over your schedule, you might end up picking up or returning your rental car late.
Most rental companies, like Hertz, allow about 30 minutes of leeway for late pick-ups. Otherwise, your reservation may be considered “forfeited,” the booking canceled, and the deposit non-refundable. When picking up at the airport, submit your flight details during booking. That way, if a flight delay causes you to arrive late, the airport location may extend your booking period accordingly.
Early returns are no problem—you can just head over and complete the procedure, but you won’t get a refund for unused rental days. Late returns, however, typically incur fees. For example, Hertz charges nothing for delays under 29 minutes, but anything beyond that is billed as a full extra day, even if it’s just a few minutes over. While these policies may seem strict, they exist to encourage renters to stick to their agreements and be mindful of time. With good planning, this won’t be an issue for road trippers~
Finally, it’s best to return the car with a full tank of gas. If you don’t, the rental company will charge you for refueling based on their pricing—which is usually much higher than the market rate because it includes labor costs. So if you have the time, filling up the tank yourself is the smarter choice.
%What to Know Before Your Trip/
When picking up your rental car, you’ll need to provide an international credit card as a deposit. Any extra fees—like speeding tickets, red light violations, or one-way drop-off charges—will be charged to that card. If you’re carpooling with someone you don’t know well, your card might be used as the deposit, but any fines caused by your travel companion will still come out of your account.
Of course, if everything is discussed in advance, and a final bill is issued upon return, splitting any additional charges among all passengers is also perfectly fine.
%Other Things to Know About Road Trips/
In the U.S., gas stations are everywhere, and they’re fully equipped.
Common locations for gas stations (GS): highway entrances and major road intersections.
Service options: full-service where staff pump your gas or clean your windows, or self-service where you pump your own gas at a lower price.
Amenities: supermarkets, restaurants, and car washes.
Payment methods: cash, fuel cards, or bank cards.
Over 90% of gas stations in the U.S. operate on a self-service basis. You insert your card yourself and pump the gas. Once you stand in front of the pump, you’ll figure it out. And don’t worry about accidentally putting diesel into a gasoline car—the diesel nozzle won’t fit into a gasoline tank.
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Traffic rules vary slightly from state to state in the U.S., but the most fundamental principles remain the same.
First: In China, it’s common to be overtaken. In the U.S., the consequences can be severe. Americans generally follow traffic rules, and if you overtake, they may not react in time, which could lead to serious outcomes.
Second: In the U.S., turning vehicles must yield to those going straight. Otherwise, if an accident occurs, the turning vehicle bears primary responsibility.
Third: Parking isn’t as simple as just pulling over in the U.S. Paid parking lots come in several types—centralized parking lots, roadside parking, valet parking—as well as free parking provided by motels and shopping centers.
Fourth: Don’t show off by reversing into a parking space; usually, it’s better to drive straight in headfirst. Don’t take up handicapped spots or you could face hefty fines. Avoid random roadside parking—always check the markings on the ground clearly. And don’t park in dirty or disorderly areas—it might attract thieves and cause you property loss.
Fifth: Even during serious traffic jams, emergency lanes on U.S. highways must not be used casually. Occupying them will result in a fine. When police cars, rescue vehicles, or ambulances use the emergency lane, other vehicles that fail to yield in time may also be penalized. The minimum fine is $100, and in serious cases, you could even be taken to court.
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On a road trip, lodging options vary widely—from rustic family-run guesthouses in rural areas, to locally operated independent hotels, to nationally chained motels, and even upscale resort hotels. It’s best to choose nationally branded motels that offer more complete facilities and services.
Delta Travel’s recommended U.S. & Canada self-drive routes: http://dameiweb.com/self-driving-tours