Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are designed for driving on the left side of the road, where the driver sits on the right side of the car.
RHD vehicles are common in places like the UK, Australia, Japan, India, and South Africa, where people drive on the left.
However, in places like the United States where people drive on the right side of the road, RHD cars are much less common.
While it is legal to drive RHD vehicles in most parts of the US, there are some unique considerations to take into account before importing or purchasing a RHD car for use in America.
Things like safety, insurance costs, maintenance, resale value, and simply adapting as a driver are all factors to research carefully.
Additionally, RHD vehicles tend to draw attention from other drivers and pedestrians, so it’s important to be prepared for the novelty factor.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the legality, safety, costs, and other key aspects of driving a RHD car in the US.
We’ll also share first-hand perspectives from RHD owners to help you determine if importing or buying a right-hand drive vehicle is the right choice where you live.
Legality of Driving RHD Cars in the USA
Federal law allows right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles to be legally imported and registered in the United States after 25 years.
However, individual state laws determine whether RHD vehicles can be legally driven on public roads.
The 25-year importation law comes from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) exemption of vehicles older than 25 years from conforming to US emissions and safety standards.
Once 25 years have passed since the vehicle’s manufacture date, it can be legally imported regardless of not meeting these standards.
However, state laws related to the legality of driving RHD vehicles vary widely. Some states like Washington allow RHD vehicles to be registered and driven without restrictions.
Others like California allow registered RHD vehicles to be driven but not registered going forward. Several states restrict driving RHD vehicles to certain roads or purposes, like test drives from dealers.
A few states like Alabama prohibit driving and registering RHD vehicles altogether.
So while federal law enables importing RHD vehicles, state laws create a patchwork of regulations around actually driving them on public roads.
Those considering purchasing a RHD vehicle should research their own state’s laws carefully first.
Safety Concerns
Driving a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle in left-hand traffic poses some unique safety concerns.
The primary issue is visibility when making left turns. In countries with right-hand traffic, the driver sits on the left side of the car and has a clear view of oncoming traffic when turning left.
However, sitting on the right side in a left-hand drive country restricts the driver’s view of oncoming traffic from the left.
This can make judging gaps in traffic more difficult and increase the risk of accidents.
There are a few techniques drivers of RHD vehicles in left-hand traffic can use to compensate. Doing a head check by leaning forward and looking around the A-pillar of the car can help get a better view of oncoming cars.
Coming to a complete stop and edging forward before making the turn is another way to minimize risk.
However, the view obstruction still makes left turns inherently more dangerous.
Passenger safety is another consideration. Since the driver sits on the right side of the vehicle, they are more exposed to oncoming traffic.
In the event of an accident, the driver is at higher risk of injury from a side-impact collision. Passengers on the driver’s side are also more vulnerable.
Modern safety features like side airbags and side-impact door beams help mitigate this risk, but physics dictates the driver’s side will bear the brunt of any side collision forces.
Overall, a right-hand drive vehicle does present some safety disadvantages on North American roads.
While the risks can be managed with extra caution, driving a RHD car or truck in left-hand traffic is inherently more hazardous than using a standard left-hand drive vehicle designed for the region.
Drivers must account for the visibility constraints and potential safety implications.
Insurance
Insuring a right hand drive vehicle in the United States can be challenging and expensive. Most major insurance providers do not offer policies for RHD vehicles, as they are considered high-risk and rare.
Specialty classic and collector car insurers are usually the best option for coverage. However, premiums will likely be two to three times higher than insuring a comparable left hand drive vehicle. Some owners report paying $4,000-$6,000 annually to fully insure their RHD cars.
The limited availability and high cost of insurance is due to several factors:
- Smaller pool of comparable vehicles makes claims difficult to evaluate. Insurers have less data on repair costs.
- Parts must be imported increasing the cost of repairs.
- Considered a greater theft and vandalism risk.
- Seen as more dangerous to drive.
- Often owned by enthusiasts increasing exposure.
Prospective RHD owners should get quotes before buying to ensure they can get covered. Only driving the car occasionally to shows can reduce insurance costs. But daily driving a RHD vehicle in the U.S. is an expensive proposition insurance-wise.
Parts and Service
Bringing a right-hand drive car into the United States can present challenges when it comes to finding parts and qualified mechanics to service the vehicle.
RHD cars, especially those never officially imported and sold in the US, will have parts that are scarce in the American marketplace.
Local auto parts stores are unlikely to stock many specialized parts that are unique to right-hand drive models.
This means you may need to resort to expensive shipping fees and long wait times when ordering replacement parts online from overseas suppliers.
The situation is even more difficult if you drive an older or obscure RHD make and model.
Finding mechanics who are knowledgeable about working on right-hand drive vehicles can also be problematic.
Most American mechanics are simply not experienced with the unique service procedures and layouts of RHD cars.
Simple maintenance like changing the oil filter or servicing the brakes may require disassembly of unfamiliar components on the opposite side.
You ideally want to locate a specialty import repair shop that has expertise with right-hand drive cars.
However, these types of shops are few and far between, as demand remains low. This scarcity means you may need to drive your RHD car long distances when repairs are needed.
Overall, the limited availability of parts and qualified mechanics is an important disadvantage to weigh when importing a right-hand drive vehicle to the United States. Being prepared and researching options ahead of time is advisable.
Resale Value
Right hand drive (RHD) vehicles tend to depreciate faster than left hand drive (LHD) vehicles in the US market.
This is primarily because the demand for RHD cars is much lower. The US is a predominantly left hand drive market, so most buyers prefer LHD vehicles.
When it comes time to sell or trade-in a RHD car, dealers will offer less money for it. The limited demand shrinks the potential buyer pool, which drives down resale value.
RHD vehicles may sit on dealership lots longer waiting for the right buyer to come along.
Depreciation on RHD cars can be accelerated further if owners have difficulty finding parts or qualified mechanics to service them.
Unavailability of maintenance support allows mechanical issues to persist, which diminishes resale appeal.
Some popular RHD vehicle models and rare classics may better hold their value. But generally, expect to take a resale hit when importing a RHD car to the US or buying one locally.
The inconvenience of driving on the “wrong” side tends to outweigh novelty and uniqueness for most American buyers at trade-in time.
Driver Adaptation
Driving a right-hand drive (RHD) car in the left-side driving USA requires adaptation from drivers used to left-hand drive vehicles.
While legally allowed, operating what amounts to a “foreign” car on American roads carries some unique challenges.
The first hurdle is re-training your brain and reflexes to pull towards the right curb rather than the left.
Since the driver sits on the right side of the car, your perspective is shifted over with the steering wheel, pedals, and controls now on your left instead of right.
This takes conscious effort to override years of driving left-hand drive vehicles.
Some tips for learning to drive RHD in the USA:
- Start slow in parking lots or low traffic areas. Repeat basics like turning, parking, stopping until it feels more natural. Don’t rush into heavy traffic until ready.
- Keep both hands on the wheel and be very deliberate with all controls until you build muscle memory. Avoid distractions.
- Visualize pulling to the right curb when parking. Use the right side mirrors more.
- Be extra vigilant making left turns and lane changes. Use turn signals consistently.
- When parking alongside a curb, set the parking brake and put the car in reverse to orient yourself properly.
- Ask a passenger to help spot hazards and remind you of right-side driving. An extra set of eyes helps a lot.
- If struggling, consider temporary lessons from a driving school or trainer experienced with RHD vehicles.
With patience and practice, driving a right-hand drive car in the left-side driving USA can become second nature. Stay focused on the basics and drive cautiously until your brain fully adapts. The experience of piloting a unique vehicle is worth the initial challenge for most owners.
Public Reaction
Driving a right hand drive car will undoubtedly garner attention and questions from other drivers and pedestrians.
The unique position of the driver’s seat and steering wheel makes RHD cars stand out on American roads.
Drivers of RHD cars often report getting frequent questions at stop lights from people in neighboring vehicles who are curious about the car.
They may ask “Is this really right hand drive?”, “Did you import this car?”, or “Why are you sitting on the wrong side?” While meant in an innocuous manner, the repeated questions from strangers can get tiring over time.
Pedestrians may also do a double take when they notice the driver sitting on the opposite side. Some have been known to joke about the driver being in the “passenger seat” or going the “wrong way”.
Most are just intrigued by something they don’t see every day. Kids in particular tend to get very excited upon spotting a right hand drive car.
The unusual sight of a RHD car attracts attention wherever it goes. Owners have to be prepared for repeated questions and reactions from onlookers.
While the curiosity is generally harmless, it’s something to be aware of when deciding to drive a vehicle with the steering wheel on the “wrong” side for the country.
Examples from Owners
I’ve been driving my right-hand drive Mini Cooper in the US for 5 years now. At first it took some getting used to, especially making left turns and changing lanes. But once I adapted it really wasn’t an issue. The only frustrating thing is when passengers are confused about which door to get in!” – James, Austin TX
“I imported my right-hand drive Subaru WRX from Japan back in the 1990s when I was in college. I got a ton of looks and questions about it back then. These days no one really blinks an eye. The only hassle is the occasional confusion at drive thrus and toll booths when the attendant looks at the wrong window.” – Mike, Boston MA
“I drive a right-hand drive Land Rover Defender that I imported from the UK. It’s my baby and I get so many compliments on it. I do avoid certain roads and left turns that seem more dangerous. And it can be annoying how often passengers try to get in the wrong side. But overall it’s been a fun experience and started a lot of conversations.” – Sarah, Denver CO
Conclusion
Driving a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle in the United States poses some unique challenges that need to be carefully considered.
While it’s legal to drive RHD vehicles in most states, there are legitimate safety concerns to weigh.
Visibility is more restricted compared to left-hand drive vehicles, and judging blind spots can take time to adapt to.
Additionally, access to qualified mechanics for servicing RHD vehicles is limited in the US. Parts may be difficult to source as well.
Insurance rates are often higher for RHD vehicles. And resale value tends to be lower due to limited demand.
Public reaction can be mixed too, with some curiosity but also confusion from other drivers. While adaptable drivers may not find driving RHD overly difficult, it’s less convenient overall compared to a standard left-hand drive vehicle.
For enthusiasts who import specialty RHD vehicles, the novelty may outweigh the challenges.
But for most drivers, choosing an American-market left-hand drive vehicle is recommended for practicality and safety.
Test drive an unfamiliar RHD vehicle thoroughly before purchase to see if you can adapt to the different experience.
And consider ongoing maintenance access and costs. While RHD vehicles can legally be driven coast-to-coast, they present hurdles that drivers should carefully weigh before making such an uncommon choice in the US market.
