Driving a car in Australia

In Australia we drive on the left hand side of the road here.

International visitors often under estimate the distances between towns and cities, and the amount of time it takes to travel by road around Australia, which is almost as big as the United States. The standard of roads in Australia is of a high quality especially those between major cities.

An overseas visitor may drive in Australia if they hold a valid overseas drivers license and providing they are licensed for the class of vehicle they will be driving. Licenses must be carried at all times when in control of a vehicle. If you are spending 6 months or longer in Australia it is advised to bring along an international driving permit or apply for an Australian driver’s license. If the driver’s license is not in the English language then a translation must be carried along with the permit.

An International Drivers Permit is not sufficient by itself and must be accompanied by a valid drivers permit. Speed limits on most country roads are 100-110km/h. On motorways the limit is usually 110km/h outside cities and 100km/h in built up areas. Driving on Dirt Roads in the Outback Minor roads in towns and cities are usually either 50km/h or 60km/h with an increasing number of towns adopting the lower speed limit. On highways in the Northern Territory you can drive at 130km/hr. It is compulsory to wear seat belts and it's illegal to talk on a mobile phone while driving. You must not park facing oncoming traffic.

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Australia <-> Asia
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