While the best source for current information about driving regulations for where you live is your state's DMV publication, here are some things to keep in mind wherever you are.

• Always carry your license, automobile registration and proof of auto insurance (in those states which require auto insurance) while driving.

• Obey all traffic signs and observe local speed limits. Be sure that you are familiar with speed conversions, especially if you are driving a car that has both miles-per-hour and kilometers-per-hour on the speedometer.

• Driving after drinking alcohol is always dangerous. If you are caught driving while legally drunk (a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or greater in most states) you can be heavily fined or imprisoned. In the most serious cases, international students driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs could be deported.

  Note: Be careful to check the labels of certain medications; they can make you too drowsy to drive safely, and if you are caught driving in such a state, you could suffer similar punishments as when driving drunk.

• Only park in designated parking spots and at designated times.
• Carry jumper cable for your battery, especially if you bought an old car. They only cost $25 - $50 but if your battery dies, you may need them if someone is willing to help you get your car started again.

• Carry flash light in the car.

• Buy an in-car security device such as a steering wheel lock.

Triple A provides:

• emergency roadside services including towing, flat tire change, battery charge, emergency fuel delivery, locksmith service, minor emergency mechanical aid, etc.
• excellent maps
• recreation information and services
• discount hotel and motel offers
• travel arrangements
• insurance for automobiles, boats, home, and travel
• auto repair programs
• automotive information center
• making key card for your car's key