Driving in United States as a Australia National
The US is a car-centric country with wide roads, clear signage, and vast distances perfect for road trips. Foreign licenses are accepted for short visits in most states.
Key Things to Know First
United States generally accepts foreign licences for short-term visitors. Carry your original licence and passport at all times.
Australia drives on the left, but United States drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.
Tips for switching sidesAustralia uses km/h, but United States uses mph. Verify your GPS or navigation app is set to the correct unit.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Rule | Australia | United States | Change? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic side | Left-hand traffic | Right-hand traffic | Yes |
| Speed unit | km/h | mph | Yes |
| IDP required | — | No | No |
| Min. driving age | 17 | 16 | Differs |
| Emergency number | 000 | 911 | Different |
| Road difficulty | Moderate | Easy | — |
Speed Limits in United States
Speed limits in United States are posted in mph (miles per hour). Quick reference: 30 mph ≈ 48 km/h · 60 mph ≈ 97 km/h · 70 mph ≈ 113 km/h.
Documents to Carry in United States
- Original driving licence from Australia — must be valid and unexpired
- Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
- Car insurance certificate — verify it covers United States before departure
- Vehicle registration / rental agreement
Emergency Number in United States
Primary emergency number in United States. Save it before you drive.
Emergency numbers for all countriesFull United States Driving Guide
Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in United States.
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