
Macau cars are right-hand drive. Here are some issues to pay attention to when driving right-hand drive vehicles abroad: 1. Always remember to drive on the left: No matter where you return to the road from, keep this in mind. 2. Respect the right of way: When merging from a small road onto a major road, never cut in. Drivers in Commonwealth countries have no concept of yielding beyond the rules. If you cut in, they may not be able to brake in time, leading to disaster. 3. When driving in urban areas or approaching pedestrian crossings, if pedestrians have the right of way (green light), never fail to yield to them: because most people do not have the concept of yielding to vehicles. 4. Remember to use turn signals when changing lanes or turning: Since speeds in these countries are generally high, failing to signal in poor visibility conditions could lead to disaster.

I learned from local drivers in Macau that the car steering wheel is on the right, a tradition inherited from the Portuguese colonial era. As a car enthusiast, I often remind my friends that Macau maintains a left-hand traffic system, similar to Hong Kong and the UK. I drove many right-hand-drive Japanese cars when I was young and got used to the right-side steering design—it brings the driver closer to the curb, making control easier on narrow streets like the winding roads of the peninsula. When traveling to mainland China, driving a left-hand-drive car always felt awkward, and I frequently made mistakes while reversing. Even after Macau's handover, the rules remained unchanged, and local driving schools specifically teach right-hand-drive techniques. Most vehicles come from right-hand-drive markets, such as imported Japanese cars, which are more expensive but durable. I advise tourists to practice before renting a car—don’t underestimate this difference, as safety comes first. Macau’s road conditions are complex, and right-hand drive helps reduce accidents, but beginners need some time to adapt.

In daily driving, I've grown accustomed to the right-hand steering wheel setup of Macau cars. Having lived here for years, from commuting to weekend joyrides, it's been my reliable companion. Left-hand traffic makes it easier to judge oncoming vehicles during rush hours, reducing the risk of scrapes. Road signs are also positioned to serve right-hand drive, making parking a breeze—just pull over directly. When renting a left-hand drive car in Zhuhai, the whole operation felt reversed, and I nearly had an accident while turning. Locals say this is a historical legacy that can't be changed. The driver groups I've joined often discuss the origins of imported cars—right-hand drive vehicles cost more to maintain but are durable. Once adapted, I quite enjoy it, especially since it suits Macau's winding alleys. I'd recommend beginners get a local driver's license first.

As someone who pays attention to transportation, I believe there are reasonable aspects to Macau having right-hand drive cars. The left-hand traffic system makes it easier for drivers to control road conditions, such as responding quickly to roadside traffic signals. This stems from Portuguese influence, with most imported vehicles coming from right-hand drive markets, and regulations requiring consistent steering orientation. From a safety perspective, it reduces blind spot issues on sharp turns. When driving, I just need to pay attention to the rules and avoid confusing directions.


