Is it fairly easy to drive in Europe? (Out of the UK)?

Question

I passed my driving test today!! (:-D) and don't want to buy a car as I'm possibly living somewhere in Europe in a couple of months (Spain...somewhere like that) within a tourism job and will be provided with a car. Thing is, I'll have no experience of driving on my own before I go there. Is that a bad idea?

Answer 1

Probably not a good idea. Try to get some UK practive first, or better still get a driving lesson or two once you are over there.

Most driving abroad is OK, but watch out for roundabouts and turning when the traffic is light (it's easy to get the right hand lane when you are following someone, you may go to the left out of habit if there isn't a car to follow).
Also you might find an automatic easier at first because a manual can be difficult with the gearknob on the wrong side (you keep opening the windows!).

Answer 2

If I were you, I'd buy an old banger to drive around just for the practice.

I passed my test about 6 months before going to the USA, and had no problems driving LHD there (but auto, of course). Then I lived in Germany/Holland for 4 years a bit later on and had no problems, but then again I was in my ex-UK RHD car.

Maybe ask your employer if you can have an auto car, as changing gear with your right hand is the one thing that can feel a little strange.

Answer 3

Its a lot easier if the steering wheel is on the left, but even if its on the right its not a huge deal. Mind you, you'll need to trust your passenger's advice when overtaking! Unless you drive somewhere crazy like the Paris periphrique or try to pass through Rome at rush hour you shouldn't find it any worse that circulating through rural Essex.

If you don't drive until you get the job you will be a bit short of practice though.

Answer 4

Ignore that you're in Europe. Just remember to drive on the right hand side and take roundabouts in the opposite direction. Expect the locals to make stupid mistakes and take your time in manoeuvers. (IF IN DOUBT DON'T). I'm a coach driver and spend a lot of time driving around Europe in different parts. Keep your mind alert, use your mirrors more and above all drive at your own pace with which you feel comfortable. Good Luck to you in your venture and we may meet in the future.

Answer 5

It's the same problem that we have Driving in Europe in a right hand drive car. Overtaking can be a nightmare, roundabouts can be confusing. But if you take care and take things slowly all should be okay.

Answer 6

Hi,
Congratulations on passing a UK driving test.
You should therefore have a new-fangled EU thing.
Valid in all EU Countries.
My old one, being old, tells me that I may drive motorbikes, cars, trucks,buses & even tanks in France !
Just remember to pull out at a T-junctions to the right, and go around roundabouts the wrong way.
All should be well.

Bob/

Answer 7

It is the same as in England except "they do it " on the right hand side, get yourself a local highway code to familiarise yourself with the local laws and just go easy until you have got some experience, the same applies here as well, As for the bad idea, well maybe yes, and maybe you will have difficulty with getting insurance.

Answer 8

i've driven abroad for a year now and forgotten to drive on the right twice but my wifes screams soon corrected me... usually if i do a u-turn i get a little confussed.. driving in mediteranean cities is madness you need eyes everywhere.
no not a bad idea and well done on passing your test :-)

Answer 9

Let me know when you get to Madrid.. I'll clear the road..

I think it's a good idea to try to get some excercise, whether the steering is right or left. And take a good insurance too.

Answer 10

wouldn't recommend it if you have only just passed and are still unsure of yourself. I've been driving for years but make my partner drive abroad. also not sure if you will get insurance yet!