Why It Feels So Weird
If you’ve spent years driving on the right, everything feels backwards on the left: turns, roundabouts, lane positioning, even the gear stick. The good news? Most drivers adjust within 30–60 minutes. Here’s how to make the transition smooth.
10 Essential Tips
1. Get an Automatic Transmission
Shifting gears with your left hand while staying in the left lane is a recipe for cognitive overload. Pay the extra $5–10/day for an automatic — it’s the single best thing you can do.
2. “Driver in the Middle”
Remember this mantra: the driver should always be closest to the center of the road. In left-hand traffic, that means the driver sits on the right side of the car.
3. Master Roundabouts First
Roundabouts flow clockwise in left-hand-drive countries. Enter from the left and give way to traffic already in the roundabout (coming from your right). Practice on a quiet one before hitting busy roads.
4. Watch Your Left Side
Your biggest blind spot is now on the left — the passenger side is wider than you think. Be extra cautious when:
- Parking alongside curbs
- Passing through narrow streets
- Driving through construction zones
5. Turn Right Carefully
Right turns cross oncoming traffic (like left turns do in right-hand countries). Take your time, wait for a clear gap, and stay in the left lane after turning.
6. Use Landmarks, Not Instinct
At intersections without clear markings, your instinct will pull you to the right lane. Instead, follow the car in front of you, or look for road markings and curb positioning.
7. Start Early and Rural
Begin your first drive in a quiet area with light traffic. Early morning in a small town or countryside is ideal. Avoid diving straight into city traffic.
8. Beware of Fatigue
Driving on the “wrong” side demands extra concentration. You’ll tire faster than usual. Take breaks every 1–2 hours and don’t drive long distances on your first day.
9. Check Wiper/Signal Stalks
In most left-hand-drive cars, the indicator and wiper stalks are reversed compared to what you’re used to. You’ll accidentally turn on the wipers instead of signaling — everyone does it. Just laugh it off.
10. Relax
Millions of tourists drive on the left every year without incident. The roads are designed to guide you. Trust the lane markings, follow the flow, and you’ll be comfortable within an hour.
Countries That Drive on the Left
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇯🇵 Japan
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇹🇭 Thailand
- 🇮🇳 India
- 🇿🇦 South Africa
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- And about 65 more countries/territories
Check the specific country guide on drivingin.world for detailed driving rules.