In What Countries Do You Drive on the Left Side of the Road?

by Marcela Vergara

If you are planning to rent a car abroad, one of the most important questions to ask is: Does this country drive on the left side of the road?

Driving on the left can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you come from a country where traffic flows on the right. However, millions of travelers successfully adapt every year. With preparation, awareness, and the proper documentation — including your domestic driver’s license and an international driving permit when needed — you can confidently explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the world by car.

This comprehensive guide covers:

  • A complete list of countries that drive on the left

  • The best road trips in each region

  • Speed limits and driving rules

  • Rental car tips for left-side driving

  • Practical advice for using an international driving permit

What Does It Mean to Drive on the Left Side of the Road?

In left-hand driving countries:

  • Vehicles travel on the left side of the road.

  • The steering wheel is typically on the right side of the vehicle.

  • You overtake other vehicles on the right.

  • Roundabouts circulate clockwise.

  • The “fast lane” on highways is the right lane.

Approximately 25% of the world’s countries drive on the left. Most of them share historical ties to the British Empire, which influenced their road systems and traffic laws.

For travelers, this matters because:

  • You may need extra adjustment time.

  • Road positioning feels reversed.

  • Intersections and roundabouts require heightened attention.

  • Rental cars will likely have right-hand steering.

The good news: after the first hour or two, most drivers adjust comfortably.

Complete List of Countries That Drive on the Left (By Continent)

Below is a region-by-region breakdown of left-side driving countries, along with scenic routes and travel highlights to inspire your road trip.

Europe: Left-Side Driving Countries

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for left-side driving.

Best road trips:

  • Scottish Highlands scenic loop

  • Cornwall coastal drive

  • Lake District countryside roads

  • Snowdonia in Wales

Speed limits:

  • Urban areas: 30 mph

  • Single carriageways: 60 mph

  • Motorways: 70 mph

Driving tips:

  • Watch for narrow rural roads.

  • Many roundabouts, especially near cities.

  • Motorways are clearly marked and well maintained.

An international driving permit may be required depending on your home country.

Ireland

Ireland offers some of Europe’s most breathtaking coastal drives.

Top routes:

  • Wild Atlantic Way

  • Ring of Kerry

  • Causeway Coastal Route

Speed limits (in km/h):

  • Urban: 50 km/h

  • National roads: 80–100 km/h

  • Motorways: 120 km/h

Road conditions:

  • Rural roads can be narrow and winding.

  • Sheep crossings are common in countryside areas.

Cyprus

Cyprus combines Mediterranean beaches with mountain routes.

Highlights:

  • Troodos Mountains drive

  • Coastal route from Paphos to Ayia Napa

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 50 km/h

  • Motorways: 100 km/h

Roads are modern and well marked, making it an easy country for first-time left-side drivers.

Malta

Malta is compact and ideal for short scenic drives.

Key notes:

  • Narrow streets in historic towns.

  • Heavy traffic near Valletta.

  • Short driving distances between attractions.

Asia: Left-Hand Driving Countries

Japan

Japan offers an excellent road infrastructure and stunning scenery.

Top driving destinations:

  • Mount Fuji region

  • Hokkaido countryside

  • Kyoto to Nara

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 40–60 km/h

  • Expressways: 80–100 km/h

Considerations:

  • Toll roads are common.

  • GPS navigation is highly reliable.

  • Rural areas are peaceful and ideal for adapting to left-side driving.

Thailand

Thailand is a favorite for road trips and island exploration.

Popular routes:

  • Phuket island loop

  • Chiang Mai mountain roads

  • Krabi coastal drives

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 50–60 km/h

  • Highways: 90–120 km/h

Be cautious of:

  • Motorbikes weaving through traffic.

  • Sudden lane changes in cities.

Indonesia

Indonesia’s most famous driving destination is Bali.

Best experiences:

  • Ubud countryside

  • Coastal drives in Uluwatu

  • Northern Bali waterfalls

Traffic can be busy in urban areas, but rural roads are manageable.

Malaysia

Malaysia offers excellent highways and modern road networks.

Top drives:

  • Kuala Lumpur to Penang

  • Langkawi island routes

  • Cameron Highlands

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 50–70 km/h

  • Highways: up to 110 km/h

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s scenic diversity makes it ideal for road exploration.

Highlights:

  • Southern coastal highway

  • Hill country tea plantations

  • Cultural Triangle routes

Roads vary in quality, so cautious driving is recommended.

Oceania: Left-Side Driving Countries

Australia

Australia is one of the best countries for epic road trips.

Must-drive routes:

  • Great Ocean Road

  • Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive

  • Tasmania island circuit

  • Red Centre Outback route

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 50–60 km/h

  • Highways: 100–110 km/h

Watch for:

  • Wildlife crossings at dusk.

  • Long distances between fuel stations in rural areas.

New Zealand

New Zealand is considered one of the world’s most scenic self-drive destinations.

Top road trips:

  • South Island loop

  • Queenstown to Milford Sound

  • North Island geothermal route

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 50 km/h

  • Open roads: 100 km/h

Roads can be narrow and winding but are well maintained.

Africa: Countries That Drive on the Left

South Africa

South Africa is ideal for self-drive safaris.

Best routes:

  • Garden Route

  • Cape Peninsula

  • Panorama Route

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 60 km/h

  • Highways: 100–120 km/h

Road conditions are generally excellent.

Kenya

Popular for safari drives and national parks.

Consider:

  • Variable rural road conditions.

  • Wildlife crossings.

Tanzania

Highlights:

  • Serengeti access roads

  • Ngorongoro Crater region

Driving conditions vary depending on location.

Botswana and Zimbabwe

Self-drive safaris are common.

Drivers should prepare for:

  • Gravel roads

  • Remote areas with limited services

Mauritius

A relaxed island driving experience.

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 40–60 km/h

  • Highways: 80–110 km/h

Caribbean: Left-Side Driving Islands

Bahamas

The Bahamas offers easy island exploration by car.

Best areas:

  • Nassau and Paradise Island

  • Grand Bahama

  • Exuma islands

Speed limits:

  • Urban: 25–30 mph

  • Highways: around 45 mph

Roads are generally flat and manageable.

Barbados

Features:

  • Coastal scenic drives

  • Numerous roundabouts

  • Short travel distances

Jamaica

Popular drives:

  • Blue Mountains

  • Montego Bay to Negril

Roads range from modern highways to rural mountain routes.

Antigua and Barbuda

Small island loop routes make for simple, scenic drives.

Why Do These Countries Drive on the Left?

Most left-hand driving countries were historically influenced by Britain. During the expansion of railways and early automobile systems, left-side driving became standardized in these territories and remains in place today.

Changing a country’s traffic direction would require massive infrastructure adjustments, so the system remains consistent.

Tips for Renting a Car in Left-Hand Driving Countries

1. Choose an Automatic Transmission

  • Reduces cognitive load.

  • Allows you to focus on road positioning.

  • Highly recommended for first-time left-side drivers.

2. Take Time to Adjust

Before entering busy traffic:

  • Practice in a parking lot.

  • Start in suburban or rural areas.

  • Repeat “keep left” at intersections.

3. Study Road Signs in Advance

  • Understand local speed limits.

  • Learn roundabout priority rules.

  • Review common warning signs.

4. Sit Slightly Left in Your Lane

Because you are seated on the right side of the car, staying properly centered requires attention.

Using an International Driving Permit in Left-Side Driving Countries

When traveling internationally, you may need an international driving permit in addition to your domestic driver’s license.

An international driving permit can:

  • Provide a translated version of your license.

  • Simplify communication with rental agencies.

  • Assist during police checks.

  • Support insurance documentation.

Requirements vary by country, so always check local regulations before departure.

In most cases, you should carry:

  • Your valid domestic driver’s license

  • Your international driving permit

  • Your passport

Common Challenges When Driving on the Left

Here are the most frequent difficulties travelers report:

  • Turning at intersections and entering the correct lane.

  • Navigating multi-lane roundabouts.

  • Judging vehicle width from a new seating position.

  • Using windshield wipers instead of turn signals.

  • Parking alignment.

Solutions:

  • Drive slowly at first.

  • Avoid night driving on your first day.

  • Use GPS navigation for lane guidance.

  • Plan routes ahead of time.

Speed Limits in Left-Hand Driving Countries

Speed limits vary by country, but typical ranges include:

Europe:

  • Urban: 30–50 km/h

  • Highways: 100–120 km/h

Asia:

  • Urban: 40–60 km/h

  • Highways: 80–120 km/h

Oceania:

  • Urban: 50 km/h

  • Highways: 100–110 km/h

Africa:

  • Urban: 50–60 km/h

  • Highways: 100–120 km/h

Caribbean:

  • Urban: 25–50 mph

  • Highways: 45–65 mph

Always observe posted signs, as limits may change frequently.

Best Scenic Road Trips in Left-Side Driving Countries

If you are considering renting a car, these routes are worth it:

  • Great Ocean Road (Australia)

  • South Island Loop (New Zealand)

  • Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland)

  • Garden Route (South Africa)

  • Scottish Highlands (UK)

  • Bali Coastal Roads (Indonesia)

  • Bahamas Island Exploration

These destinations offer landscapes that are best experienced at your own pace.

Should You Rent a Car in a Left-Side Driving Country?

Renting a car makes sense when:

  • You want to explore rural areas.

  • You plan to visit beaches or mountains.

  • Public transportation is limited.

  • You prefer flexible schedules.

Public transport may be sufficient in large cities like Tokyo or London, but for countryside exploration, a rental car offers unmatched freedom.

How to Obtain an IDP

Applying for an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's Permit. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

  • Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

  • Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

  • Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

  • Receive IDP: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

BUY NOW!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Drive on the Left with Confidence

Driving on the left side of the road may feel intimidating at first, but it is entirely manageable with preparation.

Each year, millions of travelers successfully rent cars in countries like:

  • The United Kingdom

  • Australia

  • Japan

  • South Africa

  • The Bahamas

With:

  • Awareness of traffic rules

  • Careful route planning

  • A valid domestic license

  • An international driving permit when required

You can confidently explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the world by car.

Preparation is the key. Once you adapt, left-side driving becomes second nature — and opens the door to unforgettable road trip experiences across continents

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