Emergency Help Abroad  –  The USA

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting The USA — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Drug laws are strict — possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to arrest, fines and imprisonment.

• Cannabis laws vary by state; it may be legal in some places but remains illegal at federal level and in many states.

• Firearm laws differ widely, but visitors must never attempt to buy, carry or handle weapons.

• The legal drinking age is 21 across the USA — underage drinking can result in arrest or fines.

• Drink-driving laws are heavily enforced; penalties can include fines, licence bans and prison.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Laws and social norms vary by state and region — always follow local rules and signage.

• Public nudity or indecent exposure is illegal except in very limited designated areas.

• Vandalism, graffiti or damage to public or private property is a criminal offence.

• Damaging national parks, protected lands or wildlife habitats can result in large fines.

• Littering is prohibited and often enforced with on-the-spot penalties.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification; travellers should carry a passport or clear copy.

• Failing to follow lawful orders from police can quickly escalate situations.

• Disorderly conduct, public intoxication or aggressive behaviour can lead to arrest.

• Scams can occur around ATMs, tourist hotspots and online rentals — stay cautious.

• Never attempt to bribe police or officials — this is a serious offence.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Traffic laws, speed limits and right-of-way rules differ by state — learn the basics before driving.

• Driving without a valid licence, insurance or in breach of rental terms is illegal.

• Seatbelt laws and child-seat rules are strictly enforced.

• Public transport systems require valid tickets; fare evasion can result in fines.

• Overstaying your visa, ESTA or permitted entry period can lead to detention or bans on future travel.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use is regulated by federal and state rules; flying near airports, crowds or restricted sites is prohibited.

• Photographing some federal buildings, security facilities or military bases may be restricted.

• At concerts, museums or attractions, photography rules vary — always follow local instructions.

• Respect people’s privacy when taking photos in residential areas.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• National parks and wilderness areas have strict rules around camping, fires and wildlife protection.

• Starting fires outside designated areas or during fire bans is illegal and dangerous.

• Swimming or hiking in closed or hazardous areas is prohibited and can result in fines or rescue charges.

• Feeding wildlife, including bears, deer, raccoons or marine animals, is usually illegal.

• Removing plants, rocks or natural items from protected areas may be prohibited.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging historic monuments, cultural sites or Native American heritage areas is a serious offence.

• Entering closed archaeological or heritage zones is forbidden.

• Purchasing items made from protected species may be illegal and they can be confiscated.

• Respect cultural sensitivities at memorials, cemeteries and indigenous lands.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels familiar or harmless in the UK may be perceived through a different cultural lens in the United States.

• Don’t attempt to buy alcohol or enter bars without valid ID, regardless of age — strict ID checks apply nationwide.

• Don’t assume public drinking is allowed, as many cities enforce open-container laws with fines for alcohol in streets or parks.

• Don’t ignore road rules on turning right on red, which is legal in many states unless a sign says otherwise.

• Don’t wander into unfamiliar neighbourhoods at night, and seek local advice before walking long distances.

• Don’t carry illegal drugs, including small amounts of cannabis where it’s still prohibited at state or federal level.

• Don’t take photos of security checkpoints, border officers or airports, where restrictions may apply.

• Don’t swim in lakes, rivers or oceans without checking local conditions, especially where strong currents, rip tides or dangerous wildlife exist.

• Don’t underestimate long driving distances, and plan fuel, rest stops and food carefully on rural highways.

• Don’t leave valuables visible in cars, particularly in major cities where break-ins can occur.

• Don’t attempt risky wildlife encounters in national parks, such as approaching bison, bears or elk for photos.

• Don’t walk across highways or busy roads, as jaywalking laws vary and fines can apply.

• Don’t assume tips are optional, as tipping 15–20% is standard and expected for most services.

• Don’t smoke where prohibited, especially indoors, near building entrances and in certain public spaces.

• Don’t ignore state-specific firearm laws, and avoid discussing or handling firearms unless in controlled settings.

• Don’t argue aggressively with law enforcement, and follow all instructions during traffic stops or checks.

• Don’t cross private property without permission, as trespassing laws are enforced strictly.

• Don’t underestimate heat risks in desert regions, where dehydration and heatstroke can happen quickly.

• Don’t enter unfamiliar waters in Florida or Gulf Coast areas, where alligators may be present near the shore.

• Don’t assume pedestrian crossings always give you priority, as vehicle behaviour varies widely.

• Don’t rely on public transport everywhere, particularly in cities with limited coverage outside downtown areas.