A Practical Guide to Driving in Melbourne

Is driving in Melbourne right for your trip?

A car can make it easier to explore places beyond central Melbourne, but it is not always the simplest way to get around the city centre. Consider where you plan to go, whether you are comfortable driving on the left, and how you will handle parking before deciding to rent a car.

Overseas driving licences: what visitors need to know

In Victoria, visitors may generally drive using a current overseas licence. Carry your licence whenever you drive. If it is not in English, carry an English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. An IDP is a translation document, not a replacement for your original licence.

The practical distinction is usually the language and status of your licence, rather than your nationality alone:

• Licence issued in English: Carry the original, current licence. Check with your rental provider whether it asks for any additional documents.
• Licence issued in a language other than English: Carry the original licence and an accepted English translation or IDP. Confirm the document requirements with the relevant Victorian authority and your rental provider before travelling.
• Travellers from China: A Chinese licence is generally not in English. A visitor should plan to carry the original licence together with an acceptable English translation. Do not assume an IDP can be obtained in every country; check the issuing authority in your home country.
• Travellers from other countries: Apply the same language-based check. Whether your home country issues IDPs, and what translation documents are accepted, can vary.

These points are for visitors. If you move to Victoria or your circumstances change, separate rules may apply to using or converting an overseas licence. Check current guidance with VicRoads before driving. Rental companies can also set their own document and driver-age conditions.

Driving basics in Victoria

• Keep left. Traffic travels on the left-hand side of the road, and the driver sits on the right side of the vehicle.
• Follow posted speed limits and signs. Limits and restrictions can vary by road and location; do not rely on assumptions from another country.
• Wear seatbelts. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, and check the requirements for children before setting out.
• Do not use a handheld phone while driving. Set navigation before you move and pull over safely if you need to adjust it.
• Never drive after drinking or using drugs. If you are unsure whether you are fit to drive, choose another way to travel.
• Watch for trams and cyclists. Melbourne has tram corridors and busy cycling routes. Read signs carefully and give other road users space.

Road rules can change, and specific requirements depend on the situation. Check current Victorian road-safety guidance before your trip.

Planning your route and parking

Central Melbourne can be busy, and parking conditions vary by street and car park. Check signs on arrival, including time limits, payment instructions and any local restrictions. If your accommodation offers parking, confirm availability and arrangements directly.

For trips outside the city, plan fuel or charging stops and allow time for breaks. Use a navigation app for route planning, but follow road signs and instructions on the road where they differ.

Before you rent a car

Read the rental agreement before booking. Check what documents are required, who is permitted to drive, how insurance and excess work, and what to do if the vehicle is damaged. Inspect the car and record any existing damage according to the rental provider's process.

A simple pre-drive checklist

• Carry your current overseas licence and, if needed, an English translation or IDP.
• Confirm licence and driver-document requirements with VicRoads and the rental provider.
• Set your route before driving and keep your phone out of your hands.
• Check local signs and parking conditions when you arrive.
• Leave enough time for rest stops and avoid driving when tired.

A little preparation can make a Melbourne self-drive trip more straightforward. Because licence rules and rental conditions can change, verify the latest requirements with official Victorian guidance and your rental provider before departure.