Road Rules In Australia For Holiday Driving

If you are planning to visit any country and explore its wonders on the road, then the first thing you must check out are the specific rules you will have to adhere to as a tourist. Australia is no exception and since it is quite a favourite with many tourists that like to experience road adventures whilst visiting this expansive and awesome destination, the authorities have laid down pretty strict regulations and you would do well to follow them. Fortunately, they are the same across the entire country, and there is no confusion on that front.

Many of the rules are pretty standard and are in place across most countries and hence there won’t be too much of an adjustment to make. They are:

a) Visitors must have driving licences with them – their current country’s one or an International one – and it should be in English, failing which a translation should be at hand. You can, however, drive with this licence only for three months post which you must get a local licence if you plan to continue using the roads in Australia for your holidays.

b) Driving while speaking on a mobile phone held in one hand is prohibited. Hands free sets are not an issue.

c) Drunk driving is understandably illegal and the permitted alcohol level cannot exceed 0.05gms for every 100 millilitre. This allowance is only for experienced drivers. If you are one who has a learner’s licence or are under the age of 25, with driving experience of less than 3 years, your limit is zero (that is, no drinks at all if you’re driving). Random tests are carried out and if found guilty you can face a fine with suspension of your licence, depending on the intake of alcohol. Remember it is a criminal offence and you cannot refuse to take the test.

d) Drivers and passengers must have their seat belts on at all times with children and infants under the age of seven having the secured protection of a certified restraint or safety harness.

e) The right-hand-drive system is followed in Australia, with most cars having auto transmission. However, you can still find manual gear shift cars if you are more comfortable with them and they are actually much cheaper to hire. An auto transmission vehicle is recommended if you find it difficult to adjust to the right hand drive.

f) Speed limits need to be followed meticulously since there are clear signposts indicating the permitted speed. If there is no sign, you are allowed to cruise at 50km/hour. There are hidden speed cameras and the police are also equipped with speed radars to monitor adherence - and you are therefore advised to stick to the limits indicated.

g) If you have to drive within the city, then it is better that you do not drive during early morning (as well as late afternoon) since these are peak traffic hours. Be aware of the tram/car rules you must follow when you are in Melbourne.


Whether you're going on a road trip or simply visiting friends it's good to know you're covered by car insurance that's uncomplicated and uncluttered. So get on the road and enjoy yourself, find a car insurance quote online today that suits your budget.