Travel lists

Countries that drive on the left

Drive on the left54 countries

Checked22 October 2026

About a quarter of the world's countries drive on the left, mostly places with a British connection. If you're used to UK roads, these are the easiest places to hire a car, though the cars may still be left-hand drive in some.

The full list

Tap a country for its full travel guide.

From the driving filter on Waymark's map, checked 22 October 2026. Rules change, so check the country guide before you travel.

See the driving filter on the map Driving abroad guides

Questions people ask

Which European countries drive on the left?

Ireland, Malta and Cyprus, plus the UK. The rest of mainland Europe drives on the right.

Why do some countries drive on the left?

Mostly history. Britain kept to the left, and many countries it ruled or influenced did the same. Japan chose the left for its own reasons.

Can I drive in these countries on a UK licence?

Often, yes, but not always. Some, including Japan, need an International Driving Permit too. Check our driving guide for each country.

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Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.