15 Obscure NSW Road Rules You Probably Didn’t Know — But Should!

Whether you're a fresh-faced L-plater or a seasoned road warrior, you know the basics: stop at stop signs, keep left unless overtaking, and never use your phone while driving. But beyond the standard rules lie a bunch of quirky — and surprisingly important — regulations that many New South Wales drivers aren’t aware of.

From honking your horn to where your dog sits, these lesser-known laws could be the difference between a clean record and a costly fine. Here are 15 obscure NSW road rules that might just surprise you.

1. Always Keep a Hand on the Wheel

That traffic light pit stop for a quick burger bite or lipstick fix? Bad idea. NSW Road Rule 2014:218 requires drivers to always keep at least one hand on the wheel. Taking both hands off, even for a moment, can be considered losing control of the vehicle.

2. Don’t Use Your Horn to Say Hi

Tooting your horn to greet your mate or scare off a cheeky bin chicken? Technically illegal. According to NSW Road Rule 2014:224, horns are only to be used to warn others of hazards — not as a substitute for a friendly wave.

3. Lock Your Car or Risk More Than a Fine

Step more than three metres away from your parked vehicle? It should be locked, and windows up. Failure to do so could result in a fine — and if your car’s stolen, your insurer might not cover it.

4. No Headlight Flashing to Warn of Speed Traps

While it might feel like a civic duty to warn fellow drivers of lurking police, flashing your lights could land you in hot water. It can be seen as obstructing police duties or dazzling other drivers — both violations under different road rules.

5. Dirty Number Plates = Fine

Your number plate must be visible from 20 metres away. Mud, grime, or even a bike rack blocking the view? That’s grounds for a fine. A quick wipe-down is much cheaper.

6. Mind the Splash Zone

Driving through a puddle and soaking bus passengers waiting on the kerb isn’t just rude — it’s illegal. Be courteous and avoid the splash when passing by a bus stop.

7. No U-Turns Unless Permitted

Unless a sign explicitly allows it, U-turns at traffic lights or over solid lines are a no-go in NSW. Rules differ across states, so play it safe and loop around the block instead.

8. Fog Lights Are for Fog

Fog lights might look stylish, but they’re only legal during poor visibility conditions — like fog, heavy rain, smoke or dust. Using them on a clear day can dazzle other drivers and get you fined.

9. No Parking Close to Intersections

Think it’s fine to park near an intersection if traffic can still get by? Think again. Keep at least 10 metres clear of corners without traffic lights, and 20 metres if lights or railway crossings are involved.

10. Stay in Line at Crossings and Ferries

Trying to skip the queue at a railway crossing or ferry? NSW Road Rule 2014:79-2 says all vehicles must stay in line. Cutting in isn’t just rude — it’s illegal.

11. No Feet on the Dash

Passengers — this one’s for you. Feet on the dashboard not only risk serious injury in a crash, but they may interfere with airbag deployment and driver control. Plus, it’s against the law.

12. Pets on Laps? Illegal

We all love having our furry friend beside us, but letting your pet sit on your lap while driving is a breach of NSW Road Rule 2014:297. Pets must be properly restrained for everyone’s safety — including theirs.

13. Use Indicators Properly

Your turn signal isn’t just a suggestion. If pulling out onto a road, you must indicate for at least five seconds. Changing lanes, merging, or turning? Make it early and clear — last-second blinks won’t cut it.

14. Screens Must Stay Out of Sight

Watching Netflix from the passenger seat while the driver can see it? That’s a fine waiting to happen. Digital screens visible to drivers are only allowed if used for navigation, reversing, or monitoring vehicle systems.

15. Ditch the Headphones

Wearing headphones while driving could impair your ability to hear critical sounds around you — sirens, horns, or other hazards. If they interfere with your awareness, you could be breaking the law.

Final Thoughts

Sure, some of these rules sound a little odd — but they’re designed with safety in mind. Knowing them might just save you from a fine, a loss of demerit points, or something worse. So next time you hit the road in NSW, keep both hands on the wheel, your pup in the backseat, and your fog lights off — unless, of course, it’s actually foggy.

Drive smart. Stay safe. And avoid those surprise fines.