15 Obscure NSW Road Rules Every Driver Should Know – Tynan Motors Guide to Staying Fine-Free

If you’ve been driving in NSW for a while, you probably know the basics: stop at red lights, use your indicators, and never text behind the wheel. But the road rule book is thicker than you might think—and full of quirky regulations that can catch even the most seasoned motorists off guard.

At Tynan Motors, we care about keeping our drivers informed, safe, and free from surprise fines. So, we’ve rounded up 15 of the weirdest (but real!) NSW road rules that might just save your wallet and your licence.

🚘 1. One Hand on the Wheel—Always

That drive-through burger? It can wait. NSW law says you must have at least one hand on the wheel at all times. Both hands off, even at the lights, is a fine-worthy offence.

📣 2. Honk with Purpose

Using your horn to say hello to your mate or goodbye to a bin chicken? Technically illegal. The horn should only be used to warn of danger, not for social commentary or road rage.

🔐 3. Lock It or Risk It

Leave your car unlocked and walk more than three metres away, and you’re in breach. It must be locked, with windows secured. Your insurer may even reject a claim if it’s stolen while unlocked.

💡 4. No Flashing Warnings

Flashing your headlights to warn others of a speed camera? That’s a no-go under rules prohibiting dazzling other drivers or hindering police duties.

🔢 5. Keep Your Number Plate Clean

Mud, dust, or even a bike rack hiding your plate? You could be fined. Plates must be clearly visible from 20 metres away.

🚌 6. Mind the Splash Zone

Driving past a stopped bus and splashing passengers with muddy water is actually illegal. It’s a fineable offence—and just plain rude.

🔁 7. No U-Turns Without Permission

Unless there’s a “U-turn permitted” sign, don’t do it—especially at traffic lights or over unbroken lines. It’s one of those state-specific rules many forget.

🌫️ 8. Fog Lights Are for Fog

They may look slick, but fog lights are only legal in fog, smoke, rain, or dust. Misusing them (or failing to use them when needed) can result in a fine.

🚦 9. Park Away from Corners

You need to leave:

• 10 metres from an intersection (without lights)
• 20 metres from intersections with traffic lights or rail crossings It’s all about clear sight lines for safety.

🚢 10. Stay in Line at Crossings and Ferries

Queueing for a rail crossing or ferry? Stay in line and keep left. Pushing in or crossing over to get ahead breaks the rules (and might start a traffic tiff).

🦵 11. Feet Off the Dashboard

It’s not just unsafe—passengers with feet on the dash are breaking the law if it affects airbag deployment or the driver’s control.

🐶 12. Pets on Laps? That’s a No

Whether it’s a poodle or a parrot, animals must not sit on any lap while driving. They need to be properly restrained for their safety—and yours.

🔄 13. Blinker Timing Matters

Indicating late? That’s risky. Give clear notice—at least five seconds before pulling out. Early and consistent signalling is the law.

📺 14. No Screens in Sight

Your passenger’s Netflix session might land you in trouble. Screens can’t be visible to the driver unless used for nav, reversing or vehicle monitoring.

🎧 15. Headphones Can Be a Hazard

Wearing headphones? If it affects your ability to hear sirens, horns, or other traffic cues, it could be considered a loss of proper control under NSW Road Rule 297.

✅ Stay Sharp with Tynan Motors

NSW road rules are full of surprises—but most are grounded in common sense and safety. At Tynan Motors, we’re not just here to sell you your next vehicle—we’re your partner on the road to smarter driving.

Whether you're:

• Checking your lights
• Replacing your wipers
• Fitting a pet harness
• Or upgrading to a tech-savvy vehicle that helps you stay road-legal…

Tynan Motors is here to help.

Visit your nearest dealership for a safety check or explore our latest range of vehicles—equipped with the modern tech to keep you compliant (and confident) on every journey.

Tynan Motors – Driving smarter, one road rule at a time.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: MyNRMA.com.au