An overseas driving holiday allows a great deal of freedom, but there are important things to know before you get behind the wheel in another country. Road rules, speed limits and signage vary, so it’s vital to research the regulations for the country(s) you plan to visit. For example, the Czech Republic requires daytime running lights to remain on during the day and drivers must carry an approved first-aid kit.

If you’re travelling with young children, you’ll need to know the child restraint rules in each country.

Make sure you’re properly licensed

You must carry your Australian licence when driving overseas. Some countries (and car rental firms) also require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Permits – valid for 12 months – are issued by Australian motoring clubs, including RAA, and contain Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Greek, German and Japanese translations.

IDP’s are endorsed for the class(es) of vehicle you’re licensed to drive at home. It’s not uncommon for tourists in Bali to be fined for riding a
motorcycle without a properly endorsed IDP.

In some countries, like Vietnam and China, neither an Australian licence nor IDP is valid—visitors need a residence permit to apply for a local licence. If you don’t hold the correct licence for the country you’re driving in and have a crash, your travel insurance is unlikely to cover you.

Renting your ride

When renting a car, be sure to read and understand all the documentation provided. Check the extent of the insurance policy offered and find out if your travel insurance policy includes any vehicle cover.

Smaller rental cars often have a manual transmission. If you’re not familiar with a manual, be sure to book an auto.

If you leave your car in a prohibited parking area it may be clamped or towed away, with costs charged to retrieve it.

First timers will likely find driving on the other side of the road a little unnerving. Familiarise yourself with the car’s controls and adjust the mirrors before heading off. If possible, practise on smaller streets before hitting the main roads.