Travel & Explore

Route 66 road trip: planning outline

By the Travel & Explore team · Last checked

On this page
  1. The route
  2. When to go
  3. Getting there and the car
  4. Driving there as a UK driver
  5. Staying safe on the road
  6. Before you book
  7. FAQs

This guide suits drivers who want a historic road trip, with stops at surviving heritage sites along the route. The US National Park Service presents Route 66 as a historic travel route with sites to visit along the way (NPS). For the wider list of trips, see worldwide road trips.

The route

The NPS says more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along the route are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its travel itinerary highlights over 100 of them (NPS).

When to go

GOV.UK says to check weather conditions before a long car journey, particularly in mountainous, isolated or desert areas (GOV.UK: USA safety and security). Check the forecast for each stretch you plan to drive.

Getting there and the car

GOV.UK says your hire company may ask to see your driving licence information when you collect the car. If you hire a car, insurance is included, but check what you are covered for with the hire company (GOV.UK: driving abroad).

Ask the rental company to confirm the collection and return locations, opening hours and any one-way charge in writing before you book. For more on hiring, see car hire for a road trip.

Driving there as a UK driver

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in the US. If you still have a paper licence, you must also take another form of photo ID, such as your passport (GOV.UK: USA safety and security).

GOV.UK says you may need the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well. IDP requirements vary in each state. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel (GOV.UK: USA safety and security).

Staying safe on the road

GOV.UK's US advice includes these points (GOV.UK: USA safety and security):

  • Stay on main roads.
  • Use well-lit car parks.
  • Do not sleep in your car by the road or in rest areas.
  • Keep valuables out of sight in your car.
  • Do not leave passports in rental cars, especially not in the boot.
  • Petrol stations that do not display the price of fuel often charge well above average, so confirm the price before filling up.
  • If you are in an accident, ask the other drivers to follow you to a public place.

Before you book

  • Check your licence type, and whether you need an IDP for the states you will drive in.
  • Compare hire terms, one-way charges and return times in writing.
  • Check the weather for each stretch you will drive.
  • Check the sites on your plan are open on your dates.
  • Keep passports with you, not in the car.
  • Use the driving abroad checklist to list your documents.

FAQs

Can I drive in the US with a UK photocard licence?

Yes. GOV.UK says you can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in the US.

Do I need an International Driving Permit in the US?

You may need one. GOV.UK says you may need the 1949 version, IDP requirements vary by state, and you cannot buy one outside the UK.

How many historic sites are along Route 66?

More than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along the route are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, according to the National Park Service.

More in Worldwide road trips

Sources