Do You Drive With One Hand?

by Dylan Anderson

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Founder @ CarExplore

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February 27, 2025

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3 min read

Think it’s fine to cruise with one hand on the wheel and the other hanging out the window? You might want to reconsider.

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What the Law Says

Across Australia, drivers are expected to keep both hands on the wheel whenever possible. The idea behind this rule is simple: keeping both hands on the wheel gives you better control of the vehicle, which improves road safety.

That being said, there are obvious exceptions. You need to take a hand off to adjust the wipers, change gears, operate the radio, or perform other quick driving-related tasks. However, if you’re consistently driving with one hand for non-essential reasons, you could be at risk of a fine.

Why Keeping Both Hands on the Wheel Matters

Your hands and feet control the car, so it makes sense that the law requires you to be in full control. The recommended hand positions are 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock or 10 and 2, depending on the training you received.

Holding the wheel correctly reduces your risk of injury in an accident. For example, gripping the wheel from underneath or driving with one hand on top can lead to wrist fractures or shoulder injuries if the airbag deploys in a crash.

What if You Have an Injury?

If you have a hand, wrist, or arm injury, you should consult a doctor before driving. A medical professional can determine whether you’re fit to operate a vehicle safely. In some cases, they may recommend waiting until you recover or using an adaptive driving aid.

Fines and Penalties

In most Australian states, driving with one hand outside the vehicle or not in full control can lead to fines and demerit points.

New South Wales: A $387 fine and three demerit points apply if caught driving with one hand outside the vehicle. If taken to court, the fine could exceed $2200.
Victoria: The penalty for driving with an arm out the window is currently $165.
Other States: While laws vary slightly, penalties exist across the country for driving without proper control.

CarExplore's Thoughts

Keeping both hands on the wheel not only helps you avoid fines but also makes you a safer driver. While it might be tempting to drive one-handed, especially on long trips, maintaining proper control of the vehicle is always the best choice.

Not intended as legal advice. Check with your state or territory’s road authority for specific regulations.

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