Everything You Need to Know about Driving Rules and Regulations in New York

Loud car horns, dense traffic and bright flickering lights here and there. And, of course, unpredictable pedestrians! These are the challenges any driver in New York City has faced. 

And, as if that weren't enough, even in these difficult conditions, you need to be careful, attentive and always observe traffic rules.

This guide will arm you with the most important information about how traffic laws work in New York City — speed limits, general driving rules, passenger and driver requirements..

Аt Drivo, we believe that informed drivers make better drivers, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Drive through New York State with confidence and clarity.

Common Driving Rules and Frequent Violations in New York

Before diving into the specifics of driving in New York City, let's highlight some of the rules that are often carelessly broken.

1. Right Turns on Red
In New York City it's illegal to make a right turn on a red light unless there's a sign that explicitly says it's allowed.

Outside New York City: Right turns on red are usually okay, but only after coming to a complete stop and making sure the coast is clear.

2. Yielding to Pedestrians
Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all crosswalks, marked or unmarked. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines. Pedestrian safety is a high priority, and enforcement is strict in both urban and suburban areas.

3. Use of Mobile Devices
Using a handheld mobile device while driving is illegal in New York. Drivers caught texting, talking or using any handheld device will face heavy fines and points on their driving record. Hands-free devices are allowed, but it is recommended that distractions be minimized whenever possible.

4. School Zones
In New York speed limits in school zones are typically 15 to 20 mph during school hours. These areas are strictly monitored and violations can result in large fines. Be extra cautious in school zones and always follow posted speed limits.

5. Seatbelt Laws
New York has a primary enforcement seat belt law, meaning drivers and passengers can be pulled over and ticketed solely for not wearing a seatbelt. Everyone must wear seatbelts regardless of where they are seated in the vehicle.

6. Parking Regulations
Parking violations are common and can be costly. Here's what you need to know:

- Alternate Side Parking
On certain days, the streets get cleaned, and you’ll need to move your car. Look out for signs that tell you when this happens.

 - Metered Parking
Keep an eye on the meter rules and time limits so you don’t get a ticket.

 - Blocking Fire Hydrants
Blocking fire hydrants isn’t just illegal; it’s also dangerous. Make sure to leave plenty of room for these essential safety features. If you don’t, you could face large fines and even have your car towed.

 - Parking in a Bus Stop
Bus stops are for buses, not for your car. Parking in a bus stop can mess up public transportation and cause big problems. You’ll get a ticket, and your car might even be towed.

 - Double Parking
Even if it's a very quick stop to board a passenger or run to pick up an order, it could result in a fine. Enforcement officers are always around and carefully look for drivers who violate this rule to ceremoniously give them a ticket.

7. Speed and Red-Light Cameras

New York City has lots of speed and red-light cameras, especially near schools and intersections. These cameras catch speeders and those running red lights. If you get caught, the fines will be mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.

8. Carpool and Bus Lanes

Some lanes are set aside for buses and high-occupancy vehicles (HOV) during specific hours. Using these lanes without authorization can lead to significant fines. Always pay attention to and follow the lane usage signs.

9. Drunk Driving Laws

New York has strict DUI state laws. For drivers over 21, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. For drivers under 21, any detectable BAC can lead to severe penalties. Sobriety checkpoints are common, especially during holidays and weekends, so always be cautious and responsible.

Rules To Watch Out For

And here's some important information about New York traffic laws:

1. Speed Limits

Speed limits in New York vary based on the type of road and area. In urban areas, the speed limit is usually 25 mph unless otherwise posted. On highways, it can range from 55 to 65 mph. Always pay attention to the posted speed limit signs to stay safe and comply with local laws.

2. Driving Age

In New York, the minimum driving age is 16 years old. However, drivers under 18 must follow the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which has specific restrictions to keep young drivers safe. Rental car companies, like Drivo, usually require renters to be at least 21 years old and may have extra restrictions for drivers under 25.

3. Driving with Kids: What You Need to Know

• Under 2 Years Old: Keep them safe in a rear-facing car seat.
• Under 4 Years Old: Buckle them up in a child safety seat.
• Under 8 Years Old: Use a child restraint system – whether it’s a car seat, harness, vest, or booster seat.
• Under 16 Years Old: Make sure they always wear a seatbelt, no matter where they sit in the car.

Key Tips:

• Always install child safety seats in the back seat, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Avoid putting any child in the front seat, especially if there's a passenger-side airbag.

Drivo’s Commitment to Safety and Convenience

At Drivo, we make your safety our top priority. Every vehicle in our fleet goes through thorough maintenance and safety checks by certified technicians, ensuring it meets the highest standards. Before you hit the road, we thoroughly inspect each car to guarantee it's in perfect condition, giving you peace of mind.

We know convenience is essential for car rentals. That's why Drivo offers a simple booking process. You can reserve your vehicle online with just a few clicks. We provide child seat options and other flexible rental options, including daily, weekly, and monthly plans, to suit your needs. Whether it's a short trip or a long stay, Drivo has the right solution for you.

Visit our social media or contact our customer service to learn more and book your rental today. Marketing agency