The Curious Case of Right-Hand Drive Countries

Ever wondered why some countries drive on the left while others stay on the right? This guide explains the history, practical reasons, and global patterns behind right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) cars. Learn how it affects driving, car imports, and budget-friendly auction choices—helping you make smarter decisions when buying vehicles.

The Basics of Left-Hand vs Right-Hand Drive

What is Left-Hand Drive (LHD)?

In most countries, including the United States, cars are built with the steering wheel on the left side. This setup is called Left-Hand Drive (LHD). Drivers sit on the left and drive on the right side of the road. For anyone living in the U.S., this feels natural—you’re used to checking traffic from the left and overtaking from the left lane. Almost all vehicles you see at American auctions are LHD, making them the default choice.

What is Right-Hand Drive (RHD)?

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) cars are the opposite—the steering wheel is on the right side, and drivers operate on the left side of the road. Countries like Japan, the UK, Australia, and several others use this system. If you’ve ever looked at Japanese auction cars, you’ve probably noticed RHD models being offered at lower prices compared to their LHD versions. That’s because in the U.S., RHD cars are less common and often require special adjustments to feel practical.

Key Differences Between LHD and RHD

• Steering Wheel Position: LHD cars have the wheel on the left, RHD cars on the right.
• Traffic Flow: LHD countries drive on the right side of the road, while RHD countries drive on the left.
• Driver Experience: Switching sides can be confusing at first—especially when turning, merging, or using drive-thrus.
• Availability in Auctions: LHD vehicles dominate in U.S. auctions, but RHD cars (especially from Japan) sometimes come at much lower prices, tempting budget-conscious buyers.
• Resale Value: LHD cars hold value better in the U.S. market, while RHD models may appeal to niche buyers or car enthusiasts.

The History Behind Left and Right Driving

Which One Came First?

Long before cars existed, people were already choosing sides of the road to travel on. In medieval Europe, riders often kept to the left side. Why? Because most people were right-handed. Riding on the left allowed them to keep their sword hand free in case of trouble. This practice made left-side travel the original “standard” in many parts of the world.

Historical Reasons for the Differences

As time went on, different regions developed their own habits. In the late 1700s and 1800s, countries like France and the United States shifted to the right side of the road. The main reason was practical: horse-drawn wagons and carts got bigger, and drivers sat on the left rear horse or the left side of the wagon to control multiple animals. Keeping to the right gave them a better view of oncoming traffic.
Meanwhile, countries like Britain held on to the left-side tradition, carrying it into the age of the automobile. That’s why today we see this split across the world.

How Colonization Influenced Driving Sides

The global map of driving sides isn’t random—it reflects history and politics. When the British Empire expanded, it spread left-side driving to colonies like India, Australia, and South Africa. On the other hand, countries influenced by France or the U.S. adopted right-side driving. That’s why much of Europe and the Americas drive on the right, while many Asian and African countries still drive on the left.
For today’s car buyer, this history shows why right-hand drive vehicles from Japan or the UK pop up at American auctions. They’re products of historical choices, not mechanical ones, which is why they can sometimes be cheaper options for budget-minded buyers.

Why Do Some Countries Drive on the Left Side?

Practical and Cultural Reasons

For many countries, driving on the left wasn’t just a random decision—it came from practical traditions. In the past, most people were right-handed, so traveling on the left made it easier to defend themselves with their dominant hand. When cars arrived, these habits carried over.

In countries like Japan and the UK, the left-side system also became part of the national identity. People were used to it, roads were designed for it, and switching sides would have been costly and confusing. Even today, you’ll notice small cultural touches—for example, buses and train platforms are designed to match left-side traffic flow.

Government and Road Safety Policies

Governments also played a big role in keeping the left-side system. Once cars became common, switching sides would have meant rebuilding roads, changing signs, and retraining drivers—a massive expense. Instead, governments doubled down on safety policies for left-side driving.

For example:

• Infrastructure: Road layouts, intersections, and pedestrian crossings are all designed with left-side traffic in mind.
• Licensing and Training: Drivers learn from the start to position themselves for left-side travel.
• Legal Consistency: Staying with the left system avoided accidents that might happen if rules suddenly flipped.

Countries That Drive on the Left Side of the Road

Around 35% of the world’s population drives on the left side. These countries are spread across different continents, mostly due to history and colonization. Knowing them matters if you’re considering right-hand drive (RHD) cars at auctions, since many come from these regions.

Africa

Several African countries stick to left-side driving, mainly due to British colonial influence. Examples include South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Vehicles from these areas are often RHD, but it’s less common to see them in U.S. auctions compared to Japanese imports.

Asia

Asia has some of the largest left-driving countries, making it a key source of RHD vehicles:

• Japan – One of the biggest exporters of RHD cars, popular in U.S. salvage and used-car auctions.
• India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka – All follow the left-side system, though fewer cars from these countries reach U.S. buyers.
• Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Hong Kong – Also left-side drivers, adding to the global RHD supply.

Europe

While most of Europe drives on the right, a few exceptions remain:

• United Kingdom – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland still drive on the left.
• Ireland, Cyprus, Malta – Also left-side drivers.
  British and Irish cars occasionally appear at U.S. auctions, but Japanese models are far more common.

Oceania

Almost the entire region drives on the left:

• Australia and New Zealand are the biggest examples.
• Other left-driving nations include Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Samoa.
  RHD cars from Australia and New Zealand sometimes enter U.S. auctions, especially trucks and SUVs.

Caribbean

Many Caribbean islands adopted the left-side system from British rule, including Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago. Imports from this region are limited, but you may still spot the occasional RHD car at niche auctions.

South America

Most of South America drives on the right, but there is one notable exception:

• Guyana, a former British colony, keeps to the left side.
  While not a major exporter, it shows how colonial history shaped traffic patterns.

Countries That Drive on the Right Side of the Road

About 65% of the world’s population drives on the right side. This group includes the United States and most of its neighbors, which is why Left-Hand Drive (LHD) cars are the standard in the U.S. For buyers at American auctions, this means most vehicles available already match the local system, making them easier to drive, register, and resell.

North America

• United States, Canada, and Mexico all drive on the right.
  This is why almost all cars at U.S. auctions are LHD. If you’re shopping on a tight budget, you’ll find the widest choice and the easiest ownership experience in this category.

Europe

The majority of European countries drive on the right, including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Poland. The only exceptions are the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta, which drive on the left.
For auction buyers, this means many imported European cars (like BMW, Audi, or Renault) come in LHD, fitting perfectly for U.S. roads.

South America

Nearly all South American countries follow the right-hand system, such as Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Colombia. The only exception is Guyana, which drives on the left.
Although South America isn’t a major source of auction cars in the U.S., knowing the rule helps make sense of global driving patterns.

Asia

Asia is a mix of left and right, but many of the largest nations—China, Russia, South Korea, and most of the Middle East—drive on the right.
That’s why you’ll see plenty of LHD imports from these areas, especially from South Korea and the Middle East, where SUVs and sedans are popular and often end up at U.S. auctions.

Countries That Have Switched Driving Sides

Switching from one side of the road to the other might sound impossible, but a few countries have done it successfully. These moments in history show how big a decision it is—not just for drivers, but for governments, businesses, and the economy.

Famous Examples of Switching

• Sweden (1967) – Known as “Dagen H” or “H Day,” Sweden switched from left to right driving almost overnight. At 5 a.m. on September 3rd, all traffic stopped, moved over, and restarted on the opposite side. The government prepared for years with campaigns, signs, and public education.
• Iceland (1968) – Just a year after Sweden, Iceland also made the switch to match most of Europe.
• Samoa (2009) – One of the most recent examples. Samoa switched from right to left so that citizens could import cheaper used cars from Australia and New Zealand, both left-side driving countries.

These examples show that switching sides is rare but possible—and often motivated by economics, not just tradition.

Challenges and Costs of Transition

Changing driving sides is not as simple as moving a steering wheel. It requires:

• Infrastructure changes: Road signs, traffic lights, intersections, and roundabouts must all be redesigned.
• Vehicle adjustments: Cars need to match the new system, which can be expensive for owners.
• Public training: Drivers have to completely re-learn habits, which takes time and can cause accidents in the early stages.
• High costs: Governments spend millions—sometimes billions—on roadworks, signage, and education campaigns.

Which Side Is Safer: Left or Right?

The question of whether left-side or right-side driving is safer often comes up, especially for people considering an RHD car in a country like the U.S. The truth is, both systems can be safe when supported by good infrastructure and driver habits. Still, researchers have compared the two to see if one has an edge.

Accident Statistics

Studies suggest that countries driving on the left side may have slightly fewer accidents. One reason is that most people are right-handed, so when driving on the left, the dominant hand stays on the steering wheel, giving better control. Another factor is visibility—drivers sitting on the right side of the car may have a clearer view of oncoming traffic when overtaking.
However, the difference isn’t huge. Road safety levels depend far more on enforcement, driver training, and road conditions than on which side of the road people drive.

Road Design and Safety Features

Both systems are designed with safety in mind, but infrastructure is built differently:

• Left-side countries place signs, bus stops, and crosswalks to match RHD vehicles.
• Right-side countries do the opposite for LHD cars.
  Problems arise when cars are imported from one system into the other. For example, driving an RHD car in the U.S. can make left turns and highway merges more challenging. Even small things—like using drive-thru lanes or toll booths—become less convenient.

Psychological Factors for Drivers

Switching sides is mentally exhausting, especially in the first few weeks. Drivers often look the wrong way at intersections, misjudge overtaking distances, or drift toward the curb. This is why tourists renting cars abroad sometimes get into accidents.
For U.S. buyers of RHD cars, this means you’ll need time to adjust. Some people adapt quickly, while others find it stressful. If your main goal is to save money at auction, it’s worth asking yourself if the learning curve is worth the discount.

Practical Tips for Driving in Right-Hand Drive Countries

Driving in a right-hand drive (RHD) country for the first time can feel intimidating, especially if you’re used to left-hand drive (LHD) in the U.S. But with a little preparation, it quickly becomes manageable. Whether you’re renting a car abroad or buying one from an auction, here are some tips to make the adjustment smoother.

Renting or Buying a Car Abroad

If you’re traveling, renting an RHD car is often the cheapest way to get around—especially in countries like Japan or the UK, where public transport can be expensive in rural areas. Stick with smaller cars at first; they’re easier to handle when you’re learning the new layout.
For buyers, RHD imports can sometimes be much cheaper at auctions compared to LHD versions. Just remember that while the price may look attractive, resale value in the U.S. is often lower, so weigh the long-term costs.

Adjusting to New Traffic Rules

Every country has its own driving laws. In RHD countries, you’ll drive on the left side of the road, which feels strange at first. To avoid mistakes:

• Keep reminding yourself: “Left side, left side.”
• Roundabouts go clockwise, not counterclockwise like in the U.S.
• Watch locals and follow their flow until it feels natural.

It may take a few days, but soon your brain adjusts and it becomes second nature.

Overtaking and Intersections

Overtaking can be one of the trickiest parts of switching sides. Sitting on the right means your visibility for passing is different. Always give yourself extra time and space. When in doubt, don’t risk it.
At intersections, remember that traffic patterns are reversed. For example, in RHD countries, turning right crosses oncoming traffic—the opposite of what you’re used to in the U.S. Stay alert and take turns slowly until you’re confident.

Parking and Road Signs

Parking can also feel strange because you’ll be sitting on the “wrong” side when lining up with curbs. Practice parallel parking in a quiet spot before trying it on a busy street.
Road signs may look familiar but are positioned differently. Speed limits, stop signs, and pedestrian crossings might be on the opposite side of the road than you expect. Keep your eyes moving and double-check signs to avoid mistakes.

Importing Right-Hand Drive Cars into Left-Hand Drive Countries

For many budget buyers, right-hand drive (RHD) cars look tempting at auctions. They often cost less than their left-hand drive (LHD) versions, and some models—especially from Japan—are famous for reliability and fuel economy. But before you place a bid, it’s important to know the rules and the trade-offs.

Is It Legal?

In the United States, importing RHD cars is generally legal, but there are rules. The most important is the 25-year rule: vehicles older than 25 years can be imported without needing to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards. That’s why you’ll often see classic Japanese cars like the Nissan Skyline or Toyota Supra coming in as RHD.
Newer RHD cars face more restrictions. Some are brought in for postal work, off-road use, or special exemptions, but they’re not as straightforward to register for everyday driving. Always check local DMV requirements before buying, since rules can vary by state.

Pros and Cons for Buyers on a Budget

Pros:

• Lower auction prices – RHD vehicles are usually cheaper in U.S. auctions because demand is lower.
• Unique options – Some models are only available in RHD markets (like Japan-exclusive versions of Toyota or Honda).
• Classic imports – Enthusiasts value older JDM cars, and prices can rise over time.

Cons:

• Resale value – RHD cars are harder to resell in the U.S. unless they’re iconic classics.
• Driving challenges – Passing on highways, using toll booths, or even drive-thrus can be less convenient.
• Insurance – Some insurers charge more or refuse to cover RHD cars.
• Parts and service – Replacement parts may be harder to find and sometimes more expensive.

For buyers on a tight budget, the upfront savings are real—but you need to factor in the hidden costs of ownership.

Popular RHD Cars at Auctions

Some RHD models are especially common and affordable at U.S. auctions:

• Japanese Imports – Toyota Hilux, Nissan Skyline, Honda Civic Type R, Subaru Impreza WRX.
• Utility Vehicles – Many RHD Jeeps and trucks originally used for postal service work in the U.S.
• Classic JDM Cars – Models like the Toyota Supra Mk4 or Mazda RX-7, which are popular with collectors.

These cars can sometimes sell for 20–30% less than similar LHD versions, making them attractive to budget-conscious buyers willing to handle the quirks.

Current Global Trends

The world of driving is still divided between left-hand and right-hand sides, but trends are slowly shifting. Understanding these changes can help budget-conscious buyers spot opportunities and avoid surprises when buying RHD cars at auctions.

Countries Considering Switching

Switching driving sides is rare because it’s expensive and disruptive. Still, a few countries have discussed changes to improve safety or simplify trade:

• Some Caribbean nations have debated switching to match nearby countries and reduce vehicle import costs.
• Small Pacific islands sometimes consider changing sides to make it easier to import cheaper cars from neighboring countries.

While full switches are uncommon, these discussions show that economic factors—like the cost of importing vehicles—remain a big driver behind traffic policies.

International Travel and Car Exports

Globalization and car exports continue to shape the market:

• Japanese RHD cars remain a major export to the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand. Budget buyers often find good deals at auctions because these cars are reliable and abundant.
• European and UK RHD cars also make their way into auctions, though less frequently.
• Tourism and business travel influence temporary RHD car rentals abroad. Rental companies must maintain enough cars to serve foreign visitors, sometimes creating short-term opportunities for buyers to test RHD vehicles before importing.

FAQs

Which is right-hand drive?

A right-hand drive (RHD) car is one where the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle. Drivers sit on the right and drive on the left side of the road. This system is common in countries like Japan, the UK, Australia, and India. RHD cars are often imported at auctions for budget-conscious buyers because they can be cheaper than left-hand drive (LHD) versions.

Which country is right-hand drive?

Many countries around the world use right-hand drive. Some of the most notable include:

• Japan, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand
• India, Pakistan, South Africa, Kenya
• Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore

These countries drive on the left side of the road, so their cars are designed with the steering wheel on the right. For auction buyers in the U.S., Japan is the most common source of affordable RHD vehicles.

Is the US a right-hand drive?

No, the United States drives on the right side of the road, and almost all cars are left-hand drive (LHD). RHD cars are rare here, mostly imported from countries like Japan or the UK. While you can legally own an RHD car in the U.S., it may be harder to drive, insure, and resell compared to LHD vehicles.

Is the Philippines left or right hand drive?

The Philippines drives on the right side of the road, which means most vehicles are left-hand drive (LHD). This is similar to the U.S., making it easier for LHD cars to be used or exported there. RHD cars are uncommon in the Philippines, and importing them can be more complicated.

Conclusion

Key Takeaways About RHD vs LHD

Right-hand drive (RHD) and left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles reflect a long history of local traditions, colonization, and practical choices. The main differences are:

• Steering position: RHD cars have the wheel on the right; LHD cars on the left.
• Traffic side: RHD drives on the left side of the road; LHD drives on the right.
• Global distribution: About 65% of the world drives on the right, while 35% drives on the left.
• Safety and comfort: Both systems can be safe when roads, signs, and driver habits match the vehicle’s layout. Switching sides is rare because it’s costly and complicated.

Understanding these basics helps buyers make informed choices, whether they’re looking at domestic LHD vehicles or imported RHD cars at auctions.

What It Means for Budget Car Buyers

For people trying to save money, RHD cars can be attractive because they often cost less at auctions, especially models from Japan or the UK. However, there are trade-offs:

• Driving adaptation – Adjusting to RHD in a right-side country like the U.S. can take time and attention.
• Resale challenges – RHD cars are harder to sell, limiting potential returns.
• Insurance and maintenance – Costs may be higher or more complicated for RHD vehicles.

Are you interested in buying a vehicle from US auctions?

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Further Reading

How do US auto auctions work?
How to buy a used car from a US auction
Buy Salvaged Cars from the USA. What's the Meaning and Benefit?
Types of Vehicle Titles: What You Can and Can’t Export