For many drivers around the world, getting behind the wheel in a country where traffic keeps to the left can feel unusual at first. Around a quarter of the world’s population drives on the left, including the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, India, Japan, and several others.
The main difference is, of course, keeping your vehicle on the left-hand side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right. This flips many driving habits—roundabouts go clockwise, overtaking happens on the right, and the fast lane on motorways is the right-most one.
If you’re new to it, the trickiest parts are often junctions and roundabouts, where instinct might pull you the wrong way. Taking it slow, following road markings, and watching other drivers can help you adjust quickly.
Interestingly, driving on the left has historical roots. In medieval times, people travelling on horseback kept to the left so their right hand (the sword hand for most) was free. This tradition carried through in some parts of the world, while others switched to the right.
Whether you’re a learner starting out in a left-driving country or an experienced driver visiting from abroad, the key is practice and patience. With time, staying left becomes second nature.
