Sharing the Road with Cyclists in Queensland (2026 Guide)

Whether you're a learner driver or an experienced motorist, knowing how to safely pass cyclists is an important part of driving in Queensland. Here's what every driver needs to know.

Why Sharing the Road Matters

• bicycles are legally considered vehicles
• drivers must treat cyclists with patience and respect
• everyone has a responsibility to reduce crashes

Queensland's Minimum Passing Distance Laws

Speed Limit 60 km/h or Less

✔ Leave at least 1 metre when passing.

Speed Limit Above 60 km/h

✔ Leave at least 1.5 metres.

Can You Cross Centre Lines to Pass a Cyclist?

Most people don't know this.

• centre lines
• lane lines
• painted islands

only if it is safe to do so and while complying with the road rules.

Before You Overtake

✔ Check mirrors

✔ Check blind spot

✔ Check for oncoming traffic

✔ Signal right

✔ Move across early

✔ Leave enough room

✔ Return only when the cyclist is clearly visible in your mirror

Common Mistakes Drivers Make

Use icons.

❌ Passing too closely

❌ Overtaking before an intersection

❌ Turning left across a cyclist

❌ Opening a car door into traffic

❌ Not checking blind spots

Driving Beside Groups of Cyclists

Drivers should:

✔ be patient

✔ wait until safe

✔ never squeeze between cyclists and oncoming traffic

Roundabouts and Cyclists

Very important.

Drivers must give cyclists enough room.

Do not overtake within a roundabout.

Be patient until exiting.

Night Driving Around Cyclists

✔ dip headlights

✔ allow extra distance

✔ watch for reflective clothing

✔ look carefully before turning

At Got My L's Driving School we teach learner drivers how to confidently share Queensland roads with cyclists, pedestrians, buses and motorcycles—not simply how to pass a driving test.

Quick Safety Checklist

✔ Leave 1 metre below 60 km/h

✔ Leave 1.5 metres above 60 km/h

✔ Signal before overtaking

✔ Check mirrors

✔ Check blind spot

✔ Cross centre lines only when safe

✔ Never rush past a cyclist

✔ Be patient

Learn Safe Driving Habits with Leonie

Sharing the road safely is an essential part of becoming a confident Queensland driver.

At Got My L's Driving School, Leonie teaches learner drivers how to safely interact with cyclists, pedestrians, buses, motorcycles and other road users in real Queensland traffic conditions.

✔ Accredited Driving Instructor

✔ Automatic Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid

✔ Calm, patient instruction

✔ Defensive driving techniques

✔ Driving test preparation

📞 0449 250 106