Key Driving Rules in Australia
Are you from the UK, Japan, India, or any other country that drives on the left? If so, driving in Australia will not present many problems for you. However, it still pays to know the driving rules in the country, whether it is your first visit or you’ve been here before.
This guide will help you manoeuvre your way into a safe and stress-free trip. Let’s start!
1. The Steering Wheel is on the Right-hand Side
If you come from the US or Europe, you may find it a little difficult to adjust to the location of the steering wheel. It’s on the right side of the car, which means that the instruments, including the gear stick, will feel reversed. It does take a while to get used to, but many Australian cars now have automatic transmission. Therefore, it shouldn’t be a problem.
2. Stay Left
We repeat, “Stay left.” Huge numbers of road accidents occurred on isolated or rural roads. Usually, people forget the exact side where they are driving on because they spend long hours trying to get to their destination. It is why these unfortunate events take place. A simple tip that you can follow here is to ensure you (as the driver) are positioned closest to the centre of the road. If there is oncoming traffic, it should pass on the driver’s side.
It’s important to remember that you drive on the left in Australia.
3. Watch Out for “koala Crossing” Signs
These road signs are not just a novelty item for tourists. Australian wildlife is something that you should be vigilant for. Many of the native animals in the country are nocturnal, including wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, and emus. But even in the morning, they can speedily cross the street, taking drivers aback. These animals mostly appear when the temperature is cooler, so be always on the lookout for them.
4. Never Drink and Drive
Australia takes road safety seriously, as it should be. Accidents can happen when you are drunk while driving, which is why random breath tests are standard in the country. If you get caught over the limit, expect the penalties to be harsh. It’s best to avoid drinking if you need to drive. You are not allowed to drive if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.05 or higher in WA and most states. However, if you are driving in a rental car and public vehicle in New South Wales, you could be fined for driving if you have a BAC of 0.02.
5. Never Forget Your Driving Licence
If you are an international visitor, you can still drive in the country using your foreign licence. This, however, is limited to three months and only applies if your licence is in English. If it is no, you should obtain an International Driver’s Permit, which you can get from your home country. You can use it while you are in Australia. Also, if your foreign licence does not contain your photo, you should have an ID with you that has your photo. An example is your passport.
For those staying in the country for more than three months, they can only drive if they have a driver’s licence from the state where they plan to do most of the driving.
6. Speed Limits Can Change
Urban areas in the country impose limits of 50km/hour in residential areas. Meanwhile, the limits are lower around schools, which can range from 25km to 40km. These limits change at certain times of the day. You will know the restricted speeds by reading the signage, which also tells you when they apply.
7. Service Stations Are Mostly Self-service
You have to fill up your car and go to the station to pay in person. You’re usually not allowed to pay at the petrol bowser with a credit card, although some service stations allow this.
Another thing to remember is that Australia is an expansive landmass with many isolated roads. It is often a great challenge to get access to a service station, especially at night. If you are going on a long road trip, be prepared beforehand. Fuel up your car prior to getting on the road, which will help avoid running out of petrol if you are in a remote area.
8. You Can Hire a Car in Australia
It is easy to rent a vehicle while in the country. Aries Car Rental is here to serve you. We have various cars available, including luxury, small, and family cars. If you require larger vehicles, we are also the one to call. Car rental is a cost-effective way of travelling around various parts of Australia.
The incredible Great Ocean Road in Victoria.
The process is quick and easy. As long as you provide the requirements, you are good to go. Some of these requirements include a valid ID and your driver’s licence. You should also be at least 21 years old to drive a rental. If you are driving with other people, everyone should wear seatbelts. Families with a child who is under the age of seven should be in a child restraint that’s suitable for their size and weight.
Are you ready to drive around Perth and other parts of Western Australia? Contact Aries Car Rental so that you can begin your journey with the perfect car for hire.