Left Side vs Right Side Driving Countries
Complete list of left side driving countries and right side driving countries. Explore which countries drive on the left side of road and which drive on the right.
Left Side Driving
Countries driving on the left
Right Side Driving
Countries driving on the right
Right side driving is more common with 197 countries, while left side driving is practiced in 56 countries worldwide.
Left Side Driving Countries
56 countries drive on the left
Right Side Driving Countries
197 countries drive on the right
Understanding Left Side Driving Countries and Right Side Driving Countries
The division between left side driving countries and right side driving countries is a fascinating aspect of global traffic regulations. Currently, 56 countries with left side driving exist worldwide, representing about 22.1% of all nations, while the majority (197 countries) practice right side driving.
Countries driving on left side of road primarily include the United Kingdom and many of its former colonies, such as India, Australia, and South Africa. These left hand side driving countries maintain this tradition due to historical reasons dating back to horse-riding customs and British colonial influence.
Meanwhile, right hand side driving countries make up the global majority. Most of Europe, the Americas, and many Asian countries are countries driving on right side. This countries by driving side distribution creates an interesting global pattern that affects international travelers and the automotive industry.
When examining what countries have left side driving, we find them concentrated in specific regions: the British Isles, parts of Africa, South and Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Caribbean. This left side driving countries list reveals how colonial history shaped modern traffic regulations.
Regional Distribution of Driving Sides
Left Side Driving Regions
Countries driving on the left side are predominantly found in:
- United Kingdom and Ireland
- India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
- Australia and New Zealand
- Japan and Thailand
- Southern and Eastern Africa
- Caribbean islands
Right Side Driving Regions
Driving right side countries dominate in:
- Continental Europe
- North and South America
- Russia and former Soviet states
- China and most of Asia
- Middle East
- North and West Africa
Why Do Countries Have Different Driving Sides?
The division between left side driving countries and countries with right side driving has historical roots. Left-hand traffic originated in medieval England when knights would pass on the left to keep their sword arm (right) toward potential opponents.
The spread of countries with left side driving correlates strongly with British colonial influence. As the British Empire expanded, it introduced left-hand traffic to its colonies, which is why many left hand side driving countries are former British territories.
In contrast, right hand side driving countries became dominant after Napoleon's campaigns and the French Revolution, when France mandated right-hand traffic. The practice spread across continental Europe and French colonies, eventually becoming the global standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many left side driving countries are there?
There are currently 56 left side driving countries worldwide, representing approximately 22.1% of all nations. This left side driving countries list includes major nations like the UK, India, Australia, and Japan.
Which countries drive on the left side of the road?
Countries driving on left side of road include the United Kingdom, India, Australia, Japan, South Africa, Thailand, Indonesia, and many Caribbean and African nations. Most left hand side driving countries have historical ties to the British Empire.
What percentage of countries drive on the right?
Approximately 77.9% of countries are right side driving countries, with 197 nations practicing right-hand traffic. Driving right side countries include most of Europe, the Americas, and mainland Asia.
Why do some countries drive on the left and others on the right?
The distribution of countries by driving side reflects historical influences. Left side driving countries typically have British colonial heritage, while countries with right side driving were influenced by French and later American practices.