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Left or Right? Comparing Australian and American Driving Experience

Ever wondered what it’s like to drive on the "wrong" side of the road? If you're heading Down Under or coming to the US from Australia, buckle up—there’s more to the driving experience than just the side of the road you’re on!

Let’s look at the major differences between Australian and American driving rules to help you avoid confusion.

Left vs. Right: The Great Divide

Drivers stick to the left side of the road in Australia, while in the US, it’s all about the right side. For Australians visiting the States, this can feel completely backward, and vice versa for Americans traveling Down Under.

post-it note on the dashboard reminding you where you’re supposed to be. If you're nervous, practice in a low-traffic area before getting on the open road.

Roundabouts: A Tale of Two Countries

Australians are pros at crossing roundabouts (or traffic circles, as they’re sometimes called). Why, you ask? Because there are roundabouts everywhere in the country, and they come with strict give-way (yield) rules. This means that drivers entering must give way to those already in the circle.

On the other hand, although roundabouts exist in the US, they’re less common and can confuse American drivers. Instead, you'll find a lot more 4-way stop signs, which are rare in Australia. If you're new to driving in the US, taking a DMV Practice Test is a great way to learn road rules, signs, and safe driving practices.'

 If you're an Aussie in the US, brush up on stop sign etiquette. Everyone takes turns—don’t expect the free flow of a roundabout!

Speed Limits: Metric vs. Imperial

Australia uses the metric system, so speed limits are displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h). In the US, it’s all about miles per hour (mph).

For context:

  • 60 mph = roughly 100 km/h

  • 30 mph = about 50 km/h

Speed limit signs are also more consistent in Australia, while in the US, they can vary significantly depending on the state, city, or even neighborhood.

Driving Culture: Rules vs. Guidelines

Australian driving culture is heavily rule-focused. Speeding, tailgating, and running red lights are met with hefty fines and points on your license. Australians also take pedestrian crossings seriously—failing to stop can get you in big trouble.

In the US, while rules are enforced, driving culture can feel more casual in some areas. Road courtesy varies: cities like New York are fast-paced and aggressive, while rural areas often have a laid-back vibe.

Cars: The Size Difference

If you’re an Aussie driving in America, don’t be surprised by the sheer size of vehicles. In the US, SUVs and trucks dominate the roads, while Australia tends to favor smaller sedans and hatchbacks. This also means parking spaces are generally larger in the US, which is a bonus for new drivers getting used to maneuvering big cars.

Gas Stations vs. Petrol Stations

You’ll notice some fun vocabulary changes, too. Australians fill up their cars with petrol at a petrol station, while Americans pump gas at a gas station. Either way, both countries love a good road trip snack, so you’re bound to find chips, drinks, and more at every stop.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're preparing for a road trip in Australia or taking the wheel in America, you can expect to have completely different driving experiences. Doing so can save you a lot of stress (and possibly a ticket).

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