Can a Right-Hand Drive Car Be Driven in Europe?

Purchasing or bringing a right-hand drive (RHD) car to drive in Europe has become increasingly common, especially for British, Irish, and Maltese citizens who are used to driving on the left. However, driving in a predominantly right-hand drive (RHD) environment in a left-hand drive (LHD) territory, or vice versa, requires some careful planning and awareness of local regulations.

Country Regulations

Most countries in Europe follow a left-hand driving system which is compatible with LHD vehicles. However, some countries like the UK, Ireland, and Malta drive on the left and require RHD cars. If you’re driving in countries like the UK or Ireland, be prepared for the unique driving conditions. Additionally, Cyprus, a country in the EU, also drives on the left side, making it another notable exception.

Import Regulations

When bringing an RHD car from a country like the UK into mainland Europe, you must comply with specific import regulations. These include vehicle registration, insurance, and emissions standards. It’s crucial to verify these rules before making your car journey to avoid any unexpected complications.

Driving Experience

Driving an RHD car in a predominantly LHD environment can be challenging, especially when it comes to visibility for overtaking and navigating roundabouts. As a driver, you’ll need to adjust your driving behaviors to accommodate the differences in the steering and position of controls. This can enhance your driving experience and make the transition smoother.

Insurance and Legal Requirements

Ensure that your insurance policy covers driving in the specific European countries you plan to visit. Additionally, check for any local legal requirements, such as obtaining a special permit or adhering to particular road rules. Failing to do so can result in fines or other legal complications.

Special Considerations

While most cars have wheels on both sides, one might wonder if it is possible to drive a car that only has wheels on the right side. In reality, a car requires at least three or four wheels to be functional, and anything other than wheels on the left side would be impractical. Some novel solutions, such as tank tracks or skis, are not practical for road use due to their nature and the legal and safety standards they would need to meet.

Original Question:

Are you allowed to drive a car with wheels on the right side in the EU?

It's clear that the legal and practical constraints of vehicle design preclude the possibility of driving a car that only has wheels on one side in the EU. Any such vehicle would be impractical and non-compliant with automotive safety and legal standards.

Image: A comparison of left-hand drive and right-hand drive cars, highlighting differences in steering wheel positioning and driving styles.