Trams

By the end of this topic you can

• You can stop correctly behind a tram at a roadside tram stop.
• You can pass a tram safely when the rules allow.
• You can keep out of tram-only lanes.
• You can complete a hook turn where one is signed in Melbourne.

What you need to know and understand

• In Victoria, you must stop behind a tram stopped at a roadside tram stop, not passing its rear, while its doors are open or people are crossing.
• Once the doors close and the road is clear of passengers, you may pass at no more than 10 km/h.
• Where a tram stop has a safety zone (a passenger island in the road), you may drive past the stopped tram, but slow down and watch for passengers stepping out.
• Do not drive in a full-time tram lane, or in a part-time tram lane during its signed hours; tram lanes are marked with signs and continuous yellow lines.
• At some intersections in central Melbourne and South Melbourne, Hook Turn signs require you to turn right from the left lane.
• Trams and light rail vehicles are long and heavy and cannot steer around you.

When a tram stops at the roadside

1. Slow down as you see the tram braking for a stop.
2. Stop behind the rear of the tram.
3. Wait while doors are open and passengers are getting on, off or crossing.
4. When the doors close and the way is clear, move off and pass at no more than 10 km/h.
5. Watch for late passengers running for the tram.

How to do a hook turn

Hook turns are only required where Hook Turn signs are shown, mainly in central Melbourne and South Melbourne.

1. Approach in the left lane and signal right.
2. Move forward, keeping clear of any pedestrian crossing, until you are as near as possible to the far side of the road you are turning into.
3. Wait there, still signalling right.
4. When the lights on the road you are turning into change to green, turn right.
5. Complete the turn and cancel your indicator.

Light rail and trams in other states

In Sydney, Newcastle, Canberra, Adelaide and the Gold Coast, much of the track is separated from traffic, but trams still cross roads at intersections and run through shared streets in places. Obey light rail signals and signs, never stop on tracks, and look both ways for trams before crossing them. State handbooks explain any local rules.

Common mistakes

• Driving past an open tram door, where passengers step straight into the road.
• Turning right in front of a tram without allowing for its long stopping distance.
• Stopping on tram tracks in a queue.
• Using a tram lane during its signed hours.

Test yourself: Trams

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Digital Driver Licences in Australia