Why US presidents aren’t allowed to drive
Despite the extensive power and privileges of his presidency, there’s one thing that’s completely off limits.
Being President of the US might come with private jets, sprawling estates and around-the-clock protection — but there’s one thing Donald Trump is prohibited from doing.
It’s a little-known fact that dates back more than 60 years, and it all stems from US presidents and their ability to drive.
While the rule isn’t an official law, it is highly enforced that all US presidents — current and former — are not allowed to operate vehicles on open roads.
Instead, they must be driven by their security team, who are trained in evasive and defensive driving manoeuvres.
It’s why President Donald Trump travels with a massive motorcade of over 50 vehicles, led by one of the most fortified cars on the planet.
At the centre of the convoy is The Beast — a bulletproof, bomb-resistant Cadillac weighing more than seven tonnes and worth over $US1.5 million ($A2.3 million). The car is hermetically sealed, fitted with its own oxygen supply, and reinforced with military-grade armour.
In fact, the Secret Service operates two identical Beasts, so no one ever knows which one the president is actually in.
MORE: Trump’s war on ‘world’s worst car feature’
Once a president exits the White House, they’re assigned a full-time security detail and chauffeur service.
While the rule might sound over-the-top, it’s all about mitigating risk. A former president’s political and symbolic weight means even a minor car accident could be a significant national incident.
Earlier this year, Donald Trump made headlines after purchasing a Tesla Model S. While he’s not allowed to drive it himself, Trump said he bought the EV as a “show of confidence” in Elon Musk’s company, which had been struggling with falling sales and a drop in share price.
By contrast, Australian prime ministers are legally allowed to drive, both during and after their time in office. But in practice, they rarely do, especially while serving.
Similar to the US, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is provided with Australian Federal Police protection and a government driver for security reasons.
MORE: First look – Car ready to take over Australia
Appearing on Nova FM’s Perth breakfast show in 2021, Anthony Albanese revealed he is “not allowed to drive” under current security arrangements.
“I can’t go anywhere — not to the sushi shop — without giving an hour’s notice and without there being a whole security exercise,” he said.
He isn’t the only one, former PM Scott Morrison was also chauffeured throughout his time in office.
Albanese’s driving privileges may also be shaped by personal experience.
In January 2021, the then Opposition Leader was seriously injured in a car crash in Sydney’s inner west.
MORE: The Yank tank cutting Australia in two
A 17-year-old P-plater in a Range Rover T-boned Albanese’s Toyota in Marrickville, leaving him hospitalised with spinal injuries he still suffers from today.
The PM has since said the crash changed his perspective on life and left him with lasting back pain that makes long drives difficult.
“It took me some time to recover physically and I still have damage to my spine,’’ the Prime Minister told news.com.au.
“So I have difficulty sitting in a car for long distances.”
So while Australia’s leaders technically can drive, and American presidents can’t, most ultimately leave it to the professionals either way.
Originally published as Why US presidents aren’t allowed to drive
Dumped: Famly car’s huge change
This popular SUV has undergone a ‘profound’ change to make it even more attractive to Aussie drivers but the manufacturer has left out one crucial element.
‘From Temu’: Cop stunned by sight on road
A Sunshine Coast woman’s unconventional mode of transporting her dog left her police officer speechless.