In Australia, expats find that it is very useful to have their own car as they are able to travel around freely and are able to experience the natural scenery and wide roads.
Driving is on the left hand side of the road which some expats may have to adjust to. The highway and roads are very well maintained and signage is clear making it easier to travel around. However, if travelling to rural parts of the country there are many roads which are poorly maintained being bumpy and sandy. In other parts of Australia such as New South Wales and Queensland you will find toll roads including bridges and tunnels. Drivers are expected to familiarise themselves with the rules of driving in Australia before moving as the regulations are different in each state.
Speed Limits
Due to the remote areas and not so well maintained roads there are many speed limits on the roads of Australia
A few types of the roads and speed limits include:
- Highways linking capital cities of each state has a Speed limit of up to 100 Km/h
- Motorways which have limited access highway has a speed limit of up to 110 Km/h
- Minor arterial roads and local roads has a speed limit of up to 50 Km/h
- Major arterial roads (within cities and towns) has a speed limit of up to 80 Km/h
Driving License Requirements
If moving to Australia drivers are expected to have a valid English driving license, this can only be used for the first three months in the country. However, if the license is not in English, expats will need to apply for an ‘International Driving Permit’ in their home country which should be issued before getting to Australia.
After living there for three months, expats will need to have an appropriate Australian license. The requirements for a driver’s license are:
Drivers will need to present the original overseas English license. If you do not have an English license, it will need to be presented by an official English translation document which should be issued by the National Accreditation Authority.
- Expats will need to pass an eye test and a knowledge test
- Proof of identity and residency
- Pay the drivers license fees
- Pass the official Australian driving test
- Information about any medical issues
If you hold a license from the following countries expats DO NOT need to complete a knowledge test or a practical driving test. The countries include New Zealand, Canada, USA, Japan and most EU nations. It is important that you check these requirements with your state government depending on where you are living in Australia before applying.
Driving licences can be exchanged at a local Road and Traffic Authority office or at the Driver and Vehicle Centre.