We've compiled this list of helpful resources for our international visitors so you can spend more time enjoying Oklahoma City.
Time Zone
OKC is on Central Standard Time (CT).
Driving
OKC drivers drive on the right side of the road, and speed limits are posted in miles per hour rather than kilometers. The legal driving age is 16 years old. You must be 25 years old to rent a car.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended alongside your original license, as some rental agencies often require it for translation purposes. You can get your International Driving Permit through the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).
Parking in Oklahoma City is generally easy, but rules are strictly enforced. Downtown street parking often uses meters or pay stations and time limits are posted on signs so always check before leaving your car. Parking is usually free evenings and Sundays, but violations can result in tickets or towing. Parking is often available in garages or parking lots for a fee. Some restaurants offer valet parking for a fee as well.
Hotel rental age
The minimum age to rent a hotel room in the U.S. is typically 18, but many hotels set their own policies and may require guests to be 21 or older to check in. To avoid any surprises, it’s always a good idea to check the age requirements directly with the hotel you plan to stay at.
Alcohol
The legal drinking age is 21 years old. Many bars are open until 2 a.m.
Smoking policy
There is no smoking allowed inside public buildings or on public patios. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
Tipping
Gratuities are typically not included in restaurant and service bills unless clearly noted on your check. In the United States tipping is a friendly way to show appreciation and plays an important role in supporting service staff. Here are a few helpful guidelines to make tipping easy during your visit.
Restaurant waiters or bartenders: 15%-20% (large groups may have gratuity already included; make sure to check your bill)
Taxi drivers: 15%-20%
Spa services or hairdressers: 15%-20%
Coat check: $1
Bellhops: 50 cents to $1 per bag
Hotel maids at upscale hotels: $1 per day of your stay
Tour guides and bus drivers: 20% or $10 per day (check to see if this has already been added to your cost)
Ushers at theatres do not expect tips
Stay Weather Aware
Thunderstorms can happen, especially in spring and early summer, but there’s no need to worry. If you're visiting during a storm, stay calm and know that every public place in OKC—from museums to shopping centers—has a storm shelter or safety plan in place. Staff are always happy to guide you to safety if needed. To stay informed, tune in to local news channels like KOCO 5, KFOR 4, KWTV News 9, Fox 25 and Telemundo Oklahoma 30. You can also listen to radio stations such as KOSU 91.7 FM, KGOU 106.3 FM and News Talk 1000 KTOK AM for updates. And just a heads-up: every Saturday at 12:00 p.m., you might hear a siren—it’s only a test to make sure our emergency systems are working properly.
International Documents
All visitors from abroad who are planning to visit the U.S. must have a passport valid for at least six months longer than their intended stay in the U.S., unless they are exempted by country-specific agreements. For families traveling together, each member of the family must have his or her own passport, including infants and children. Learn more.
Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Wavier Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel. Learn more.
Admission into the United States
Getting familiar with traveler entry forms, what agricultural products are allowed, which items are dutiable and other helpful tips can make your journey through Customs and Border Protection smoother and quicker. Learn more.
Travel Insurance
Check your health insurance to ensure you are covered while traveling in the USA. If not, please consider purchasing temporary or travel health insurance that will cover you during your travel dates.
Real ID Act
Make sure you have the appropriate identification before your trip. Learn more.
Other Important Information
When calling from one area code to another, dial 1, followed by the area code and the seven-digit telephone number.
The electrical current in the United States is 110 volts AC. It is recommended that you buy a converter before entering the country.
