Countries with left-hand traffic. When planning a holiday abroad, many drivers wonder: which side of the road will I drive on? While most countries use right-hand traffic, there are about 75 countries where people drive on the left – including three in Europe! Let’s explore where and why people drive on the left, and how to prepare if you’re going to one of these places.
Why do some countries drive on the left?
The reason goes back to history. In the past, most people rode horses and carried weapons in their right hand. Riding on the left made it easier to protect themselves. This custom later became the law in some places. In ancient times, both systems existed. For example, in old Roman cities like Pompeii, wheel marks on the road show that people used both sides depending on traffic.
In 1669, one of the first road laws in England told carriages on London Bridge to keep to the left. By 1756, this rule became official in the London Bridge Act.
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Countries with left-hand traffic
Most countries that drive on the left were once British colonies, but not all! Let’s break it down by region:
Europe
Only three European countries use left-hand traffic:
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Malta
Also note: Cyprus, though not geographically in Europe, is an EU country with left-hand traffic.
Asia
Several Asian countries also drive on the left:
- Japan
- India
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Sri Lanka
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Maldives
Africa
In Africa, you’ll drive on the left in:
- South Africa
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Zimbabwe
- Namibia
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
South America & Caribbean
Few countries drive on the left here, but some islands do:
- Guyana
- Suriname
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Barbados
- Jamaica
Australia & Oceania
In this region, left-hand driving is common:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Fiji
- Samoa
- Other Pacific Islands
Tips for driving on the left
If you’re used to driving on the right, switching can feel strange. Here are some simple tips:
- Choose automatic transmission – It’s easier if you’re not used to driving on the left.
- Be extra careful at roundabouts and intersections – Everything is reversed.
- Check your rental car insurance – Make sure it covers possible accidents.
Left-hand driving may not be the global standard, but it is still used in many tourist-friendly countries. If you plan to drive abroad, check local rules and be well prepared – it will make your journey safer and more enjoyable.