Driving is second nature for most people — until you visit a country that drives on the opposite side to what you’re used to. If you’re visiting Australia for the first time and planning to hire a car, driving on the left side of the road will likely be the biggest adjustment you make.
If you’re travelling from a country that already drives on the left, you’ll have no trouble adjusting. If you’re coming from anywhere else, the 5 tips below are for you.
Tip 1: Rent an Automatic
When choosing between automatic or manual transmission, pick automatic. One less thing to think about means more attention for the road. It also helps that the steering wheel sits on the right-hand side of Australian cars — shifting gears with your left hand takes some getting used to at first.
Tip 2: Familiarise Yourself With the Car
Everything will sit in a slightly different position than you’re used to. Take a few minutes at pick-up to get your bearings before driving off, and don’t hesitate to ask staff questions — it’s a much better option than figuring it out mid-drive.
Tip 3: Steer Clear of City Centres (For Now)
Learning to drive on the left for the first time is trickiest in busy city centres, with more traffic and pedestrians to watch for. If you can, ease in gradually — rely on public transport or taxis around the city at first, and pick up your rental once you’re ready to head further afield. Picking up just outside Perth Airport rather than the terminal itself is also a calmer way to start.
Tip 4: Exit to Your Left
Habits are hard to break. When exiting a highway in Australia, the exit is always on your left. If your exit is coming up, move into the left lanes early rather than waiting until the last moment to cross from the right.
Tip 5: Pay Attention
Driving on the left may feel unfamiliar at first, but staying alert to your surroundings and following the road rules will make it second nature within a day or two.
Situations That Catch Visitors Out
Roundabouts
Traffic on Australian roundabouts travels clockwise. Give way to vehicles already on the roundabout, which will be coming from your right, and indicate left as you exit.
Turning right
In Australia, turning right means crossing oncoming traffic, much like a left turn back home. Wait for a safe gap, and make sure you finish the turn on the left side of the road you’re turning into.
Pedestrians and crossing the road
Traffic comes from the right first. Look right before pulling out, and remember this when you’re on foot as well.
Wildlife on country roads
If you’re driving out of Perth, watch for kangaroos and other wildlife, especially around dawn and dusk.
Key Road Rules in Western Australia
A few rules are worth knowing before you set off:
- Keep left. On multi-lane roads with higher speed limits, stay in the left lane unless you’re overtaking.
- Speed limits are in kilometres per hour. The default limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h unless signs say otherwise, and speed cameras are common.
- Seatbelts are compulsory for every passenger.
- No hand-held phones. Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal.
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.05 for fully licensed drivers.
Know the Licence Rules Before You Drive
Beyond the driving itself, check what your hire company needs from you. Most overseas licences are accepted, though some require an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence. Our guide to hiring a car in Perth covers the licence, age and booking requirements in full before you arrive.
You may also notice a ‘keep left’ reminder sticker on the dashboard of your hire car — a Road Safety Commission WA initiative for visitors, rolled out across Perth hire fleets to help overseas drivers adjust safely.
Ready to Start Driving on the Left Side of the Road?
With the right prep, driving on the left becomes second nature fast. For help choosing the right vehicle or getting a quote, contact us today and we’ll be happy to help.