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Driving in Australia vs. Tonga: Key Differences Explained

When exploring the driving landscape between Australia and Tonga, distinct variations emerge that are vital for ensuring safety on the roads. From lane markings to speed limits and alcohol regulations, navigating these essential contrasts will enhance your journey abroad. Familiarizing yourself with these key distinctions can make all the difference in your driving experience.

Lanes

Markings: Solid Yellow Line
australia:
Not commonly used; can indicate the left edge in tunnels.
tonga:
Often used to separate traffic directions.
Markings: Dashed Yellow Line
australia:
Not commonly used; may mark reversible lanes.
tonga:
Centerline on two-way roads; passing permitted when safe.
Overtaking: On Left
australia:
Allowed
tonga:
Yes
Overtaking: On Right
australia:
Not allowed except on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning right.
tonga:
Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left.
Bus Lanes: Presence
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No
Bus Lanes: Usage
australia:
Reserved for buses and taxis; usage by others restricted.
tonga:
N/A
Bus Lanes: Markings
australia:
Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS LANE'; often with road signs.
tonga:
N/A
Cycle Lanes: Presence
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No
Cycle Lanes: Usage
australia:
Exclusive for bicycles.
tonga:
N/A
Cycle Lanes: Markings
australia:
Bicycle symbols and colored pavement.
tonga:
N/A
High- Occupancy Lanes: Presence
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No
High- Occupancy Lanes: Requirements
australia:
Minimum two or more occupants
tonga:
N/A
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
australia:
Electronic signs display current limits.
tonga:
N/A

Speeds Limits

Urban Areas: Standard
australia:
50 km/h
tonga:
40-50 km/h
Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles
australia:
80-100 km/h
tonga:
70-80 km/h
Rural Areas: Buses And Vans
australia:
80-100 km/h
tonga:
70-80 km/h
Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers
australia:
80-100 km/h
tonga:
70-80 km/h
Highways: Cars And Motorcycles
australia:
100-110 km/h
tonga:
No specific highways with designated higher speed limits
Highways: Buses And Vans
australia:
100-110 km/h
tonga:
N/A
Highways: Trucks And Trailers
australia:
90-100 km/h
tonga:
N/A
Variable Speed Limits: Presence
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No
Variable Speed Limits: Indications
australia:
Electronic signs display current limits.
tonga:
N/A
Enforcement: Speed Cameras
australia:
Yes
tonga:
No widespread use
Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines
australia:
Common; may vary by area.
tonga:
Common; paid directly to traffic officers

Signals

Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together
australia:
Not commonly used.
tonga:
Not commonly used in Tonga
Use Of Indicators: Roundabouts
australia:
Signal when entering and exiting
tonga:
Use indicators appropriately
Traffic Signs: Language
australia:
English; symbols are standard
tonga:
English and Tongan; symbols are standard

Turns

Right Turn On Red
australia:
Not allowed, except where signage permits.
tonga:
Prohibited
U- Turns Allowed
australia:
Allowed unless prohibited by signs.
tonga:
Varies by location; check for signs

Documentation

Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A
australia:
Accepted for short periods; International Driving Permit recommended.
tonga:
Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended
Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U
australia:
Accepted for short periods; International Driving Permit recommended.
tonga:
Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended
Vehicle Inspection: Requirement
australia:
Varies by state; proof may be required
tonga:
Required; proof may be required
Vehicle Inspection: Sticker
australia:
Displayed on license plate or windshield in some states
tonga:
Displayed on windshield

Alcohol

Limits: General Drivers
australia:
0.05%
tonga:
0.08%
Limits: Professional Drivers
australia:
0.02%
tonga:
0.04%
Limits: Underage Drivers
australia:
0.00%; zero tolerance in all states.
tonga:
Zero tolerance
Enforcement: Random Checks
australia:
Common; roadside breath testing often conducted
tonga:
Common at specific times or checkpoints
Enforcement: Fines
australia:
Varies by state; can be substantial
tonga:
Varies; can be substantial

Roundabouts

Signaling: Entering
australia:
Signal right if intending to turn immediately
tonga:
Signal if turning immediately upon entry
Lane Usage: Left
australia:
Use for subsequent exits, move to left lane before exit when safe
tonga:
Use for subsequent exits, move to right lane before exit when safe

Emergency Services

Contact: General Emergency
australia:
000
tonga:
911
Contact: Traffic Police
australia:
Varies by state; contact local police
tonga:
Contact local police
Contact: Roadside Assistance
australia:
Check with your insurance provider or NRMA
tonga:
Check with your insurance provider

Penalties And Fines

Common Fines: Speeding
australia:
Varies; AUD 100 to AUD 3,000, demerit points possible
tonga:
Varies; spot fines by discretion of traffic police
Common Fines: Seat Belts
australia:
AUD 200 to AUD 500, demerit points possible
tonga:
Mandatory; fines for non-compliance
Common Fines: Phone Use
australia:
AUD 200 to AUD 1,600, demerit points possible
tonga:
Fines for handheld phone use while driving
Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation
australia:
AUD 300 to AUD 900, demerit points possible
tonga:
Fines apply
Payment: On The Spot
australia:
Yes; varies by jurisdiction.
tonga:
Common; fines usually paid immediately
Payment: Deadline
australia:
Varies; typically 14 to 28 days to pay
tonga:
Immediate payment preferred