Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Automobile Associations
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The
American Automobile Association
(AAA; 800-874-7532;
www.aaa.com
) has
reciprocal membership agreements with several international auto clubs (check with AAA
and bring your membership card from home). For its members, AAA offers travel insur-
ance, tour bookings, diagnostic centers for used-car buyers and a wide-ranging network
of regional offices. AAA advocates politically for the auto industry.
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A more ecofriendly alternative, the
Better World Club
( 866-238-1137;
www.betterworldclub.com
) donates 1% of revenue to assist environmental cleanup, offers
ecologically sensitive choices for every service it provides and advocates politically for en-
vironmental causes.
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For either organization, the primary member benefit is 24-hour emergency roadside as-
sistance anywhere in the USA. Both also offer trip planning, free travel maps, travel-
agency services, car insurance and a range of travel discounts (eg on hotels, car rentals
and attractions).
Bring Your Own Vehicle
Unless you're moving to the USA, don't even think about freighting your car.
Driver's License
Foreign visitors can legally drive a car in the USA for up to 12 months using their home
driver's license. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) will have more credibility
with US traffic police, especially if your home license doesn't have a photo or isn't in Eng-
lish. Your automobile association at home can issue an IDP, valid for one year, for a small
fee. Always carry your home license together with the IDP.
To drive a motorcycle in the USA, you will need either a valid US state motorcycle li-
cense or an IDP specially endorsed for motorcycles.
Fuel
Gas stations are ubiquitous and many are open 24 hours a day. Small-town stations may
be open only from 7am to 8pm or 9pm. Plan on spending roughly $4 per US gallon. At
many stations, you must pay before you pump.
Insurance
Insurance is legally required. Without it, you risk legal consequences and possible finan-
cial ruin if there's an accident.
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Car-rental agencies offer liability insurance, which covers other people and property in-
volved in an accident.
