Trusted Traveler Programs
Fly through the lines at JFK, LGA, and Newark. The Department of Homeland Security has introduced several programs that can help expedite security and customs screenings when traveling to and from the US, including New York City. The programs, customized based on travel needs and designed to enhance passenger experience, are available for US citizens and residents as well as those from certain foreign countries. Visit dhs.gov/tt to learn more about the options and their benefits, and see a chart that compares the features of each.

US Customs and Border Protection
Recent improvements by US Customs and Border Protection have helped decrease wait times to enter the United States for both visitors and citizens coming from abroad. Among these are the Trusted Traveler Programs listed above, as well as self-service kiosks located in the international arrivals terminals at area airports and an app for smartphones and tablets. Discover what to expect when arriving from an international destination by watching “You Have Arrived,” a short instructional video; to learn more about the self-service kiosks and app, watch “Global Entry – The Quickest Way Through the Airport!”

Currency
In New York City and throughout the United States, the dollar is the standard currency. This converter allows you to determine the value of other currencies compared with the dollar.

Time Zone 
New York City is in the Eastern Time Zone. Eastern Standard Time is Greenwich Mean Time minus five hours, and Eastern Daylight Time, from March through November, is Greenwich Mean Time minus four hours. Check here for the current date and time in NYC.

Check here for the current date and time in NYC

Useful Phone Numbers
Here are some important phone numbers to keep handy during your NYC visit.

• Emergencies (police, fire, or ambulance): 911
• NYC government agencies and any questions or requests about City services (nonemergency): 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (639-9675)
• Directory assistance: 411
• Printed NYC literature: 800-NYC-VISIT (692-84748) or 212-397-8222 (the latter is for international callers only), Mon.–Fri., 7:30 am–5:30 pm CT. You can also visit nycgo.com to instantly download or order New York City guides and maps.