UK driving guide for visitors from the USA • Research reviewed 18 September 2026
Gatwick Airport Car Hire for USA Visitors
Landing at Gatwick from the United States and planning to drive in Britain? This guide covers the questions that matter before you collect the keys: your US licence, rental documents, automatic cars, driving on the left, roundabouts, road signs, fuel, parking and choosing the right vehicle for UK roads.
Compare Gatwick Car HireFrom Right-Hand Traffic to Driving on the Left
For many American visitors, the biggest adjustment is not the car itself — it is road position. In Britain you drive on the left, the steering wheel is normally on the right-hand side of the vehicle, and roundabouts usually flow clockwise.
What Should an American Driver Bring to Gatwick?
Bring the original driving licence required by your booking, your passport or other required identification, the payment card that meets the supplier's conditions and your reservation details. Do not rely on a photograph or digital copy of a physical licence unless the rental company explicitly accepts it.
Driving licence
Use GOV.UK's non-GB licence checker for your legal entitlement and then read the rental company's own licence requirements.
Passport / ID
International renters should have the identification specified by the supplier and booking confirmation.
Payment card
Check whether the selected supplier/category requires credit, accepts debit, and what name must appear on the card.
Choosing a Gatwick Supplier as a USA Visitor
Gatwick currently lists Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz and National as its seven on-airport providers, with desks after arrivals in both terminals. The airport also states that all its listed on-airport providers offer after-hours return.
Familiar US brandAlamo
Alamo can be a familiar name for US travellers. Gatwick says its airport operation offers cars, SUVs and people carriers.
Useful for US visitors
Compare transmission, luggage capacity and payment requirements rather than choosing by brand familiarity alone.
One-way optionEnterprise
Gatwick specifically highlights Enterprise's one-way hire options. Its Gatwick terms also publish airport-specific payment rules useful to overseas arrivals.
Debit-card headline
Enterprise currently permits qualifying airport renters to use a debit card with round-trip flight evidence, while some larger and premium vehicle groups require credit cards. Check the live terms.
Airport supplierAvis
Gatwick describes Avis as offering a wide range of vehicles. Check the live category carefully if automatic transmission is essential.
Payment planning
Avis UK publishes payment-card rules that vary with vehicle group. Confirm your selected car's terms before leaving the USA.
Familiar US brandHertz
Hertz is another brand familiar to many US travellers and is one of Gatwick's on-airport providers. Compare the live vehicle and payment terms for your dates.
Before collection
Confirm the transmission, card requirements, additional-driver rules and any optional protection products you actually want.
Wide UK rangeEuropcar
Gatwick describes Europcar's offering as ranging from compact cars to SUVs. Europcar also publishes UK one-way options, useful for point-to-point touring.
Vehicle size
For a first UK drive, compare luggage needs against exterior size rather than automatically selecting the largest vehicle available.
Compare liveBudget
Budget is an on-airport Gatwick provider. Compare the complete price, transmission and payment conditions for your travel dates.
Useful check
Do not compare only the headline daily rate: include extras you need and understand the fuel and deposit terms.
Automatic or Manual for Your First UK Drive?
Automatic may be easier if…
- You normally drive automatic in the USA.
- This is your first time driving on the left.
- You want to concentrate on road position and navigation.
- You will drive in stop-start traffic.
- You are not fully confident operating a manual gearbox.
Manual can work if…
- You are genuinely comfortable driving stick shift.
- You are comfortable changing gear with your left hand.
- You want to compare the widest range of vehicles.
- The manual category offers better value for your dates.
- Every intended driver can confidently drive it.
USA vs UK Driving: The Differences Worth Knowing
| USA visitor may expect | What to expect in Great Britain | Practical approach |
|---|---|---|
| Drive on the right | Drive on the left. | Be particularly deliberate when leaving junctions, petrol stations and car parks. |
| Steering wheel on left | Most UK rental cars have right-hand drive. | Take a few minutes to set mirrors and understand controls before leaving Gatwick. |
| Automatic is very common | Both manual and automatic rentals are common. | Book a category explicitly labelled automatic if that is essential. |
| Gas | Petrol or diesel. | Check the fuel label/cap and rental agreement before refuelling. |
| Miles and mph | Great Britain also uses miles and mph for road distances/speed limits. | This is one element that should feel familiar. |
| Large roads and parking spaces | Some UK roads, villages and car parks can be narrower/tighter. | Choose the smallest vehicle that comfortably fits your party and luggage. |
| Different roundabout conventions | Roundabouts are widespread. | Slow down, read signs and lane markings early, and follow the Highway Code. |
UK Road Signs American Drivers Should Recognise
British signs can look very different from US signs. A useful shortcut is to learn the shape and colour: red circles generally give prohibitions or restrictions, blue circles generally give positive instructions, and red-bordered triangles warn of hazards. Direction signs use different colours according to the type of road.
30 mph limit
A number inside a red circle is the maximum speed in miles per hour. In England and Scotland, roads with street lighting are generally 30 mph unless signs say otherwise.
National speed limit
The white circular sign with a black diagonal stripe means the national speed limit applies for that road and vehicle type. It does not simply mean “no speed limit”.
Give Way
“Give Way” is the UK wording you will see where an American driver may expect “Yield”. Slow down and give priority as required.
Roundabout
Roundabout signs and lane markings deserve early attention. At a standard roundabout you normally give priority to traffic approaching from your right unless signs or signals indicate otherwise.
STOP
A UK STOP sign is deliberately familiar: stop at the line and proceed only when safe.
Red triangle = warning
Triangular red-bordered signs warn about hazards ahead, such as bends, junctions, pedestrians, animals or changes in road conditions.
Blue circle = instruction
Blue circular signs commonly tell you something you must do, such as keep left or turn in a particular direction.
Parking information
Parking restrictions can depend on signs, road markings and time plates. Never assume a space is unrestricted simply because another vehicle is parked there.
The illustrations above are simplified learning aids, not substitutes for official road signs. Use the current Highway Code for the full sign set. Meaningful sign graphics include accessible text labels; purely decorative icons elsewhere are intentionally left without image alt text because the surrounding visible text already explains them.
Speed Limits: A Quick Guide for US Visitors
UK maximum-speed signs are white circular signs with a thick red border and black numerals. The number is the maximum speed in miles per hour. The examples below have been redrawn to follow that familiar UK sign appearance more closely.
Britain uses miles per hour (mph), so you do not need to mentally convert kilometres while driving in Great Britain. The posted limit is the legal maximum, not a target: the Highway Code says drivers should reduce speed when road, traffic, weather or visibility conditions require it.
10 UK Driving Rules That Can Surprise American Visitors
Once moving, the Highway Code says you should keep to the left unless road signs or markings indicate otherwise, subject to normal exceptions such as overtaking or turning right.
At a standard roundabout, give priority to traffic approaching from the right unless signs, markings or traffic lights direct otherwise.
Do not assume a manoeuvre permitted at a US red light is permitted here. Follow the UK traffic signal and any directional signals/signs at the junction.
It is illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet or similar data-capable device while driving. The rule still applies when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
Drivers and passengers must follow UK seat-belt and child-restraint rules. If travelling with children, arrange the correct child seat for their age/size and rental circumstances.
The legal alcohol limits in Scotland are lower than in England and Wales. The safest approach when driving is not to drink alcohol.
Single and double yellow lines are important parking/waiting restrictions. Read nearby signs and time plates rather than applying US curb-colour assumptions.
Bus-lane signs show when other vehicles may or may not use the lane. Check the sign rather than following another car into it.
Expect frequent pedestrian crossings and give pedestrians the priority required by the Highway Code. Approach crossings ready to slow or stop.
On rural roads, reduce speed and be prepared for bends, cyclists, walkers, horses and oncoming traffic where there may be limited passing space.
Road Colours and Markings: What They Mean to a US Driver
| What you see | What to think | Useful habit |
|---|---|---|
| Double yellow lines | Waiting restrictions apply at all times, subject to specific exemptions. | Do not treat the curb as normal roadside parking. |
| Single yellow line | Waiting is restricted at times shown by signs or zone controls. | Find and read the relevant sign before leaving the vehicle. |
| White dashed centre lines | Separate traffic flows or lanes, depending on the road. | Keep left and follow lane arrows/markings early. |
| Give Way triangle / broken line | You may need to yield to traffic on the road you are entering. | Slow sufficiently to assess the junction before crossing the line. |
| STOP line and sign | You must stop. | Come to a proper stop at the marked line. |
| Red route markings | Stopping restrictions can be especially strict. | At Gatwick, follow airport signs and use designated stopping/parking areas. |
Motorways and Dual Carriageways: They Are Not the Same Thing
A US visitor may be tempted to treat every divided highway like an Interstate. In Britain, a motorway is a specific road class identified by motorway signs and rules. A dual carriageway simply means opposing traffic is separated by a central reservation; it can have junctions, roundabouts and different signed limits.
On multi-lane roads, keep left unless overtaking or signs/lane arrangements require otherwise. Do not sit permanently in a middle or right-hand lane just because the road is quiet.
Leaving Gatwick: Your First Miles
Gatwick says the airport is about 28 miles south of Central London and links directly to the M23 and A23 London–Brighton road. Before moving out of the rental bay, set your destination while parked and give yourself time to become comfortable with the car.
The airport also operates red routes around its site. Gatwick says vehicles must not stop, unload, wait or park on designated red routes, so follow the signs rather than pulling over to adjust navigation or reorganise luggage.
Roundabouts: A Calm First-Time Approach
Roundabouts can look unfamiliar, particularly multi-lane versions. Reduce speed on approach, read the direction signs before reaching the junction, choose the lane indicated by signs and road markings, and be prepared to give way in accordance with UK rules. If you miss an exit, continue safely rather than making a sudden lane change.
For the legal rules and diagrams, use the current Highway Code on GOV.UK.
Choosing the Right Vehicle Size
A large SUV may feel familiar, but bigger is not automatically better for a UK holiday. Consider where you will actually drive. Rural lanes, historic towns, multistorey car parks and hotel parking can be easier in a compact or medium vehicle.
Count your large suitcases and cabin bags before choosing. If you need seven or nine seats, check our 7-seater Gatwick guide or 9-seater Gatwick guide.
Fuel: Petrol Is Gasoline
In Britain, petrol is the term used for gasoline. Diesel is a different fuel and must not be put into a petrol vehicle. Check the rental agreement, dashboard/fuel flap label and collection explanation before your first refuelling stop. Also check whether your booking requires the car to be returned with the same fuel level or follows another policy.
What About an Electric Rental?
An EV can work well for a UK trip, particularly if your hotel or accommodation offers charging. For a first visit, however, think about charging alongside the rest of the unfamiliar driving environment. If you choose electric, learn how to connect the vehicle, where the cable is stored and what battery level is required at return.
See our Electric Car Hire Gatwick Airport guide for the detailed charging checklist.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards and Deposits
American travellers should check payment requirements before flying, especially if they intend to use a debit card. Policies differ by supplier and vehicle group. A card accepted to prepay online is not necessarily sufficient for the security deposit at collection.
Our Debit Card Car Hire Gatwick Airport guide compares the published Gatwick/UK rules for the major suppliers.
Insurance and Protection: Read What Your Booking Includes
Do not assume that UK rental terminology will exactly match the wording used by US rental companies, credit-card benefits or personal auto policies. Read what is included in the booked rate, the excess or liability that may remain, exclusions, optional products and the process following damage.
If you intend to rely on cover provided by a US credit card or separate policy, verify directly with that provider that the protection applies to a rental in the United Kingdom, the selected vehicle type and the full rental period. Keep any required documentation.
One-Way Hire for an American UK Road Trip
You do not necessarily need to bring the car back to Gatwick. A point-to-point itinerary can work well if your flight home leaves from another city or airport. For example, you could begin in South East England and finish elsewhere in Britain, provided your chosen supplier accepts the return branch and vehicle category.
Our One Way Car Hire Gatwick Airport guide explains return-location fees, airport-to-airport bookings and changing the destination.
Driving into London
Do not assume that hiring at Gatwick means driving into central London is always the best first step. London has public transport, parking constraints and road-charging schemes. If your holiday begins with several days in central London, compare the convenience and cost of collecting the car when you are ready to leave the city instead of paying to keep it parked.
If you do drive into London, check current Transport for London information for any charging zones that apply to your route and vehicle.
A Sensible First-Day Plan After a Transatlantic Flight
Allow time
Do not build an unnecessarily tight schedule around immigration, baggage reclaim and vehicle collection.
Set navigation parked
Enter your first destination and understand the route before moving out of the rental area.
Know your limits
If you are tired after travelling, factor that into your plans rather than beginning an ambitious drive simply because the car is available.
10 Checks Before Leaving the Gatwick Rental Area
- Licence and documents. Make sure collection paperwork is complete.
- Transmission. Confirm the car is automatic if that is what you booked.
- Fuel type. Know whether the vehicle takes petrol, diesel or electricity.
- Road position. Remind every intended driver that traffic keeps left.
- Mirrors and seat. Adjust them before moving.
- Parking brake and controls. Locate unfamiliar switches while stationary.
- Navigation. Set the first destination before joining airport roads.
- Existing damage. Check and record the vehicle according to the rental procedure.
- Return conditions. Know the fuel/charge requirement and return location.
- Emergency/support details. Save the rental company's contact information.
USA Visitor Gatwick Car Hire Checklist
- Original driving licence
- Passport / required ID
- Accepted payment card
- Booking confirmation
- Automatic transmission confirmed
- Passenger/luggage capacity checked
- Fuel type understood
- Deposit terms checked
- Insurance/protection understood
- First destination saved
- Return instructions saved
- Supplier support number saved
Continue Through Our Gatwick Guides
Gatwick Car Hire for USA Visitors FAQs
Can an American rent a car at Gatwick Airport?
Yes, subject to the renter meeting the supplier's licence, age, identification, payment and other rental requirements. Use GOV.UK's non-GB licence checker for legal driving entitlement.
Can I drive in Britain with a US driving licence?
Use the official GOV.UK service for driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence to confirm your circumstances. Rental companies can have additional requirements beyond legal entitlement.
Does an American need an International Driving Permit in the UK?
Do not rely on a blanket answer. Check your legal position using GOV.UK's non-GB licence guidance and confirm the rental company's document requirements before travel.
Can I hire an automatic car at Gatwick?
Yes, automatic categories are available in the Gatwick rental market. If automatic is essential, book a category explicitly described as automatic.
Do people drive on the left in the UK?
Yes. In Great Britain traffic drives on the left. Take particular care when leaving junctions, petrol stations and car parks where habit can pull an overseas driver toward the wrong side.
Are UK speed limits in kilometres?
No. Road distances and speed limits in Great Britain use miles and miles per hour, which will be familiar to US drivers.
What is gasoline called in the UK?
Gasoline is normally called petrol. Diesel is a separate fuel. Confirm the vehicle's fuel type before refuelling.
Can I use a US debit card to rent at Gatwick?
Possibly, depending on supplier and vehicle category. Some Gatwick airport policies permit qualifying debit-card renters while other categories require credit. Check the exact booking terms.
Should a US visitor rent a large SUV?
Choose according to passengers, luggage and itinerary. A large SUV can offer useful space, but a smaller vehicle may be easier on narrow roads and in UK car parks.
Can I collect at Gatwick and return the car elsewhere?
Yes with participating suppliers and eligible return branches. A one-way charge may apply, so enter the different return location when booking and compare the complete price.
About This Guide & Official Sources
1st UK Car Rentals reviewed this guide on 18 September 2026. It is written specifically around questions faced by visitors arriving from the United States. Legal driving entitlement and rental-company acceptance are separate checks, so we link to official UK information and recommend confirming the terms of the exact booking.
- GOV.UK – driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence
- GOV.UK – The Highway Code
- London Gatwick Airport – official car hire information
- London Gatwick Airport – driving information
Read about our editorial approach on Meet the Team at 1st UK Car Rentals.