International Driver's License for Australia

Visitors driving in Australia on a short-term basis are advised to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their current home-country license. Australia drives on the left, and while an IDP translates your license into English, its real value is that each of the states and territories sets its own driving rules — so having a clearly readable, standardised document with you helps wherever you travel. The IDP is always used together with your original license.

An International Driving Permit is valid throughout Australia for temporary visitors, in every state and territory. It works as a translation of your home-country license and must be carried with that license. For a full list of countries where your International Driver's License is accepted, please see (Countries That Accept an International Driver's License).

Yes. Australia has six states plus territories, and each sets its own road rules, speed limits and licensing details, so what applies in New South Wales may differ from Victoria, Queensland or Western Australia. Driving is on the left everywhere, but always check the local rules for the specific state you are visiting, and carry your home license and IDP throughout.

* People drive on the left side of the road.

* Australia has a national seat belt law — always wear a seat belt when one is fitted.

* Australia prohibits mobile phone use while driving, though a hands-free device is permitted.

* Helmets are required by law for both drivers and passengers on a motorcycle or scooter, and child passengers under the age of 8 are not allowed.

* The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Do not drink and drive.

* Maximum speeds are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 100–130 km/h (62–80 mph) in rural areas, depending on the road and state.

The general legal blood alcohol limit in Australia is 0.05% for fully licensed car drivers, with a stricter 0.00% applying to learners and provisional drivers. Enforcement is strict and random breath testing is common, so the safest choice for a visitor is to avoid alcohol entirely before driving.

An IDP with your home license is intended for temporary visitors for the duration of a normal visit. If you stay longer or become a resident, you will be required to obtain a local license — and certain states may waive the driving test depending on your home country if you hold a valid license and IDP. For a standard trip, your home license plus the IDP is what you carry.

Speed limits are typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban and built-up areas, rising to between 100 and 130 km/h (62–80 mph) on rural roads and highways depending on the state and road type. Limits are signed and enforced with cameras, so watch for changes as you move between zones.

Rental companies in Australia will ask for a valid driver's license, and while your English-language home license may be accepted, an IDP alongside it removes any doubt about your credentials and is especially helpful if your license is not in English. Carry both documents when collecting a vehicle.

Yes. Across Australia, helmets are required by law for both the rider and passenger on a motorcycle or scooter, and child passengers under the age of 8 are not permitted. If you plan to ride, make sure an approved helmet is part of your hire.