Drive with indian license in new york?

Question

Hi,I have come on L1 work visa to US in Feb2008.I work in Austin,TX and got to know that I can drive with my indian license in TX for upto 1 year.But Iam not sure whether I can drive in New York. Iam planning to visit NY and Niagra this 2nd week of september.please let me know. Also note that I have international driving permit issued by my country which is valid till Feb 2009.

Answer 1

The State of New York recognizes your foreign driver license if you remain a resident of the nation (ie. India) that issued the license. You do not need to have a New York State driver license to drive in State of New York unless you become a resident of New York State.

Please note your age will play a part in renting a vehicle here and you'll be asked for a credit/debit card to pay for the rental.

Credit cards are best as a debit card takes longer for the unused balance to be credit back to you which you may need on your trip here.

Your International driving permit ONLY verifies that you hold a valid driver license in your home country. Your foreign driver license (not the International Driving Permit) allows you to drive in New York. You are not required to have an International Driving Permit to drive in New York State, but the permit has value.

The permit verifies (in several languages) that you have a valid foreign driver license. A New York Police Officer who cannot read the language on your foreign driver license can read the permit.

Hope that helps,

Steve

http://411newyork.org