Driving in Tasmania

Tasmania is an ideal destination for touring by car or camper with beautiful scenery, good roads and short travel distances. With the great variation in terrain there's always something new to see. From the beautiful white beaches of the east coast through the sweeping plains of the midlands and the rugged grandeur of the central highlands and on to the lush rainforest of the west coast, Tasmania has something for everyone. Self-drive packages are well catered for throughout the state with a variety of vehicles being available for hire. Luxury campervans from 2 to 6 berths are available for those who wish to travel in comfort. 4 wheel drives can be had for those looking to get off the beaten track.

Road Rules

In Tasmania we drive on the left hand side and give way to the right. Roads are well sign posted and traffic is usually light.

The default maximum speed limit is 100 km per hr with some major roads sign posted as 110 km per hr.

The default speed limit in towns and cities is 50 km per hr unless posted at a higher speed.

Drink driving is illegal and the maximum allowable blood alcohol level is .05

Speed cameras operate throughout the state and Police are authorised to stop  drivers to perform random drug and alcohol tests.

It is mandatory that seatbelts are worn by all occupants in a vehicle and children under 7 must be suitably restrained.

By law helmets must be worn while riding motorcycles or bicycles on public roads.

The use of mobile phones while driving is illegal except with a hands free system and can incur heavy fines.

A copy of the Tasmanian Road Rules Handbook is available online from the Tasmanian Transport Commission.

 

 

Drivers Licences

Visitors to Tasmania from overseas can drive on their overseas licence as long as it is current (not cancelled, expired or suspended)

If your licence is not in English then you must also carry an English translation or an International Driving Permit.

Tasmanian Roads

Most Tasmania roads are two lane bitumen with some of the major highways being multi lane.

Some roads however are quite windy and some only dirt. Visitors should check with their hire car companies as some do not allow their vehicles to be driven on dirt roads.

Petrol Prices

The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania (RACT) keeps an eye on the fuel prices throughout Tasmania and information can be found on their fuel watch page.

Riding Motorcycles in Tasmania

For those who love to travel on two wheels Tasmania has some of the most thrilling roads around. With sections that are guaranteed to get your blood pumping, your heart racing and put a smile on your dial and all with the glorious Tasmanian scenery as a backdrop. Listed below are some of the best rides to be had in Tasmania.

Derwent Bridge to Tullah

Elephant Pass

Cethana Road

Queenstown - Gormanston

Waratah - Savage River

Hellyer Gorge

 

 

 

Printable Colour Touring maps (PDF)

Tasmania