Driving on the Left Side
In Australia, you drive on the left side of the road. This means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car. If you're used to driving on the right (USA, Europe, most of Asia), this takes some adjustment.
Tips for Adjusting
Take your time on your first drive. Roundabouts go clockwise. When turning, remember: right turns cross traffic, left turns don't. The gear stick and indicators might be on opposite sides to what you're used to.
Most Common Mistakes
The most dangerous moments are at intersections and when turning. Take an extra second to look both ways. Many international drivers accidentally drive on the wrong side when there's no other traffic — stay alert, especially early morning.
Speed Limits and Enforcement
Speed limits in Australia are in kilometres per hour (km/h). Urban areas are typically 50 km/h, suburban streets 60 km/h, and highways 100-110 km/h. Speed cameras are very common and fines are expensive.
How Speed Cameras Work
Fixed speed cameras are marked with signs. Mobile speed cameras can be in unmarked cars. Point-to-point cameras measure your average speed over a distance. There's no tolerance — if the limit is 60, going 63 can get you fined.
Road Rules You Must Know
Australian road rules are similar to other countries but with some important differences. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, even at traffic lights. You must give way to pedestrians at crossings.
Roundabouts
Give way to vehicles already in the roundabout (coming from your right). Go clockwise. Signal left when exiting. Roundabouts are common in Australia — you'll use them daily.
Alcohol Limits
The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% — lower than USA (0.08%) and many European countries. For the safest approach, don't drink at all if you're driving. Police conduct random breath tests regularly.
Unique Australian Road Hazards
Australia has some unique driving hazards you should know about. Wildlife on roads (especially kangaroos at dawn/dusk), long distances between towns in rural areas, and extreme weather conditions in summer.
Driving in Queensland and Brisbane
Queensland has excellent roads but some specific things to know. Brisbane traffic is busiest 7-9am and 4-6pm on weekdays. Toll roads (tunnels and motorways) require a toll account or you'll receive a fine — we can help you set this up. School zones have 40 km/h limits during school hours. Queensland summers are hot — never leave children, pets, or valuables in a parked car. Flooding can happen quickly in storms — never drive through floodwater.
Common Mistakes International Drivers Make
- ✗Driving on the wrong side of the road, especially when tired or when there's no traffic
- ✗Forgetting speed limits are in km/h, not mph (60 mph = 96 km/h)
- ✗Not setting up a toll account and getting fined on toll roads
- ✗Underestimating distances — Australia is huge, Brisbane to Sydney is 10+ hours
- ✗Driving at dawn/dusk in rural areas when kangaroos are active
- ✗Using your phone at red lights — still illegal
- ✗Drinking even one or two drinks before driving (0.05% is lower than you think)
How This Works When Renting with Vamo
When you pick up your car from Vamo in Brisbane, we'll give you a quick orientation to help you drive confidently.
- We show you all the car's controls and features before you leave
- We provide tips for driving in Brisbane and navigating local roads
- We can help you set up a toll account if you'll be using toll roads
- Our cars are well-maintained and reliable for long drives
- If you have any questions while renting, message us on WhatsApp anytime
Ready to get started?
Browse our fleet to find the perfect car for your needs, or message us if you have any questions.