Driving in Western Australia
Visitors may drive in Western Australia on a current overseas licence, carrying it while driving. The default limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas and 110 km/h in open areas as signposted. Plan the journey around distances, conditions and road closures.
Updated
Key facts
- Overseas visitors
- May use a current overseas licence while visiting WA
- Licence document
- Carry your licence when driving
- Non-English licence
- Carry an English translation certified by your consulate, diplomatic office or mission
- Built-up default
- 50 km/h unless signed otherwise
- Open-area default
- 110 km/h in open areas as signposted
- Regional trip
- Plan around distances, conditions and weather
Can visitors drive on an overseas licence in WA?
Visitors may drive on their current overseas licence in WA and must carry it while driving. If the licence is not in English, carry a translation certified by your consulate, diplomatic office or mission, or an International Driving Permit. A permanent resident must apply to transfer the overseas licence within 3 months of gaining residency. Check the rental company's document requirements before pickup.
What speed limits apply?
The default limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas and 110 km/h in open areas as signposted. Signs can set a different limit, and the built-up default applies even where no sign is shown. If you are not used to driving on the left, keep left and take extra care at intersections and turns. Kangaroos, cattle, camels and emus are unpredictable on country roads, so drive slowly and do not try to swerve around an animal.
How should you plan a regional drive?
Plan your journey and learn the distances, conditions and weather for the areas you will drive through. Start each leg with enough fuel. Check the Main Roads WA travel map for flooding, bushfire and roadworks alerts before each leg rather than assuming yesterday's route is still clear.
What matters for a hire car?
Read kilometre allowances and prohibited-road clauses against your exact itinerary. A sealed highway journey and a beach or remote track involve different permissions. Choose a pickup in Perth or Broome that matches the first leg, then confirm any one-way return before reserving.
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Prices are shown in Australian dollars. Check the pickup point and what the agreement allows on the roads in this guide before you book.
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Questions people ask
Can I drive in WA with an international licence?
A visitor can use a current overseas licence. Carry it while driving, with a certified English translation or an International Driving Permit if it is not in English, and confirm the rental company's document rule before pickup.
What is the default speed limit in WA?
It is 50 km/h in built-up areas and 110 km/h in open areas as signposted.
How do I check WA road closures?
Use the Main Roads WA Travel Map before each regional leg.
Is an ordinary hire car suitable for remote tracks?
Only if the rental agreement permits the exact road and conditions. Check it before leaving sealed roads.