Hook turns explained: how to do a hook turn safely in Melbourne

What is a hook turn?

A hook turn is a right-hand turn made from the far-left lane of an intersection, rather than the right lane.

If a hook turn sign is present, instead of turning right immediately when the lights change, drivers must move into the left lane, enter the intersection, and wait until the traffic lights for the street they're turning into turn green. Only then do they complete the turn.

Hook turns are primarily used in Melbourne's inner city to keep right lanes clear for trams and reduce congestion.

Why does Melbourne use hook turns?

Hook turns exist for several practical reasons:

To prioritise trams

Melbourne has the world's largest tram network, and trams often travel along the centre of the road. If cars were allowed to turn right from the right lane, they would block tram lines and disrupt services.

Research from the Public Transport Research Group (PTRG) at Monash University estimates that having hook turns at intersections can save trams 11.25 to 15.64 seconds at each hook turn intersection. Without these time savings, more trams would be needed on the roads - at an estimated cost of between $15 million and $25 million.

To improve traffic flow

By moving turning vehicles out of the right lane, hook turns help keep through traffic moving more efficiently.

To enhance safety

Hook turns reduce the risk of collisions between turning vehicles, oncoming traffic and pedestrians crossing the road.

Are hook turns unique to Melbourne?

Although they're rare to find outside of Melbourne, hook turns used to be standard across Australia.

Up until the 1930s, it was normal to turn right from the left-hand lane in cities including Sydney and Adelaide. The hook turn was slowly phased out in these cities from 1939 onwards, with the unique turn being scrapped in favour of turning from the right lane.

Victoria, of course, didn't remove hook turns entirely when it began to phase them out in the 1950s. The rule to turn right from the left lane remained in place (and remains in place to this day) at intersections where tram lines cross.

Where are hook turns required?

Hook turns are only required at intersections where clearly indicated by signs reading 'right turn from left only'.

These are most commonly found in Melbourne's CBD and inner suburbs, particularly along major tram corridors such as Swanston Street, Collins Street and Bourke Street. There are also three intersections on Grattan Street in Carlton with hook turns introduced in 2024, even though there are no trams there - that's because there is a single lane and a right-turn would block through traffic.

If there is no sign, you should perform a standard right-hand turn.

How to do a hook turn: step-by-step

Hook turns might seem intimidating if you've never done one, but they're easier than you might think. Follow these steps:

1. Approach in the left lane

As you near the intersection, move into the far-left lane (unless road markings indicate otherwise). Look for signs showing a hook turn is required.

2. Enter the intersection on a green light

When the traffic light turns green, drive forward into the intersection.

3. Position your car correctly

Move as far left as possible within the intersection, keeping clear of pedestrian crossings.

• If hook turn lines are marked, follow them.
• If there are no markings, stop near the far side of the intersection, facing straight ahead (not angled).

Watch for bike riders on both sides, including those travelling through or setting up for a hook turn.

4. Wait for the next signal change

Remain stationary while traffic flows around you. Wait for the traffic lights of the street you’re turning into to change.

5. Complete the turn

When the traffic lights in front of you turn green, check for pedestrians and other vehicles, then turn right and proceed as normal.

If you’re the second car waiting to hook turn: Wait until the car in front moves off, then complete your turn. Do not turn at the same time as the first car.

More: Still not comfortable doing a hook turn? Book a lesson with RACV Drive School.

Common hook turn mistakes to avoid

Even experienced drivers can get hook turns wrong. Here are some frequent errors:

Turning too early

Some drivers mistakenly turn right as soon as they enter the intersection. This defeats the purpose of the hook turn and can cause dangerous conflicts with oncoming traffic.

Positioning incorrectly

Stopping too far into the intersection or at an angle can block traffic or create confusion for other drivers.

Ignoring pedestrians

Failing to give way to pedestrians is both unsafe and illegal. Always check crossings before completing your turn.

Hesitating too long

While caution is important, excessive hesitation can disrupt traffic flow. Be ready to move as soon as the lights change.

When should you avoid a hook turn?

You should not attempt a hook turn if:

• there is no sign requiring it
• road markings indicate a different turning method
• traffic conditions make it unsafe (e.g. a blocked intersection).

In these situations, follow standard turning rules or consider an alternative route.

Can motorcylists use hook turns?

Yes - motorcyclists should use hook turns just like a car would.

Can bike riders use hook turns?

Under the Australian Road Rules, it's legal for bike riders to make a hook turn at any intersection unless otherwise specified. It's often safer for cyclists than merging across multiple lanes of traffic. The process is similar: move into the left side of the intersection, wait, then proceed when the lights change.