For driving in New Caledonia, foreign visitors need to have valid driver licenses issued by countries of their residence. If an original driver license is not in French, a foreign driver should have an International driving permit.

The main New Caledonian road traffic rules:

• Driving is on the right side of the road.
• Overtaking is on the left side.
• The minimum driving age is 18 years.
• The maximum speed limit is 30 km/h in residential areas, 50 km/h in towns and cities and 110 km/h outside built up areas.
• The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.05%. Random breath testing is carried out.
• Drivers must give way to the right, except when they are on the main road.
• The seat belts are compulsory.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• The police phone number is 17.

Additional information:

• New Caledonia has a good road network and driving is a best way to get around.
• Most car rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years and sometimes 25 years. There is no maximum age limit.
• To rent a car, any driver need to have a full valid driver license (or/and an International driving permit) which must be held for at least two years.
• In New Caledonia, there are two toll roads; both are from its capital, Noumea.

 Driving Overseas - Short Information