Countries that drive on the left and on the right

In most of the world traffic keeps to the right, but in about 75 countries and territories vehicles drive on the left side of the road. It is important to know this before setting off in a rental car, or even just before crossing the street. This guide covers the short history of the two systems, what to watch for when driving on the side you are not used to, and tips for pedestrians. At the end of the page you will find the driving side of every country in a single table.

Last updated: November 2026

In short

• About two thirds of the world's population lives in countries where traffic keeps to the right.
• Left-hand traffic is most common in countries with a historical British influence, and in Japan.
• In left-hand traffic the steering wheel is on the right of the car; in right-hand traffic it is on the left.

Main countries that drive on the left

• Europe — United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus
• Asia — Japan, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Macau
• Oceania — Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and many Pacific islands
• Africa — South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia and Mauritius
• Americas — Jamaica, the Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname and some Caribbean islands

Why are there two different systems?

According to a common explanation among historians, riders and walkers in the Middle Ages often kept to the left of the road, so that a right-handed person could meet oncoming travellers with their sword hand. The United Kingdom made this habit law and carried it to its colonies.

In continental Europe, keeping to the right spread in the 18th and 19th centuries, accelerated by French influence and regulations of the Napoleonic era. In North America, the right lane was preferred because drivers of large freight wagons sat on the left-hand horses. In the 20th century many countries switched from left to right to match their neighbours; Sweden's switch in 1967 is the best-known example. Japan's left-hand system, by contrast, rests on its own historical development, independent of British influence.

Renting a car on the unfamiliar side

• If possible, rent a car with an automatic transmission; shifting gears with your other hand makes adjusting take longer.
• Make your first drive at a quiet time, such as leaving the airport, and away from an unfamiliar city centre.
• The indicator and wiper stalks may be on the opposite side; switching on the wipers when you mean to turn is a common occurrence.
• The driver's side of the car should face the centre of the road. This simple rule keeps you from entering the wrong lane when leaving a junction.
• Do not get behind the wheel when you are tired or straight after a long flight.
• If you are crossing a border by road, remember that the driving side may change between the two countries (for example between Thailand and Laos, or between Hong Kong and China).

International Driving Permit

Many countries require an International Driving Permit in addition to your licence. This document does not replace your licence; it is simply a translation of it in several languages and must always be carried together with the original licence.

The rules vary by country and by which country issued your licence. Some countries require the permit by law, while in others only rental companies or the police may ask for it. Before you travel, check your destination's official sources and the rental company's terms.

Roundabouts and junctions

In right-hand traffic you go around roundabouts anticlockwise; in left-hand traffic, clockwise. Priority on entry can also vary by country: in most countries vehicles already on the roundabout have priority, but local rules differ in some places.

Rules on turning at a red light also differ from country to country. For example, in most US states turning right on red after stopping is allowed, while in many European countries it is prohibited. Check rules like these before renting.

For pedestrians: look the other way first

In a country where traffic runs the other way, the biggest risk often comes when crossing the street on foot. Out of habit you may look the wrong way and step into the road thinking nothing is coming.

Look both ways before crossing and use pedestrian crossings. In some cities, such as London, "look right" or "look left" is painted on the road at crossings; pay attention to these warnings. If you rent a bicycle or scooter, the same rules apply to you too.

Driving side by country