When Can I Drive After Hip Replacement?
Driving is one of the milestones patients ask about most. The answer depends on which hip was replaced, what you're driving, and whether you're still on opioid pain medication.
Medically reviewed by Matthew Harb, MD · Orthopedic Surgery — Hip & Knee Replacement · Last reviewed August 13, 2026
The three real criteria
- Off opioids. Driving on opioid pain medication is unsafe and not allowed.
- Reaction time. You can perform a sudden emergency stop without hesitation.
- Mechanics. You can get in and out of the car comfortably and operate all pedals smoothly.
Left vs right hip
A left hip replacement with an automatic transmission typically allows driving sooner — sometimes within 1–2 weeks — because the right leg, which controls the pedals, is unaffected. A right hip replacement requires more healing because the operated leg directly operates the pedals.
A simple readiness test
Before your first drive, sit in the parked car and practice quickly moving your foot from the accelerator position to a firm brake press. If that motion is hesitant or painful, wait another week.
Getting in and out of the car
- Slide the seat all the way back.
- Sit down first, then rotate both legs into the car together.
- Reverse the motion to exit.
- Avoid twisting on the operated leg while bearing weight.
What to expect on the first drive
Start with a short, familiar route. You may feel some stiffness afterward — that is normal. Build up to longer drives over a week or two.
General guidance — recovery varies by procedure, by person, and by surgeon. Follow the instructions of your own surgeon and care team.
Frequently Asked Questions
The exercise program
Illustrated, phase by phase — what each movement is for and how it typically progresses. Starts with a printable sheet of the exercises most people begin with.
View the exercise programMore on Hip & Knee Replacement recovery
Hip Replacement Recovery Timeline: Week by Week
A realistic week-by-week recovery timeline after total hip replacement — walking, driving, sleep, return to work, and return to activity, based on modern direct anterior protocols.
Knee Replacement Recovery: Week by Week
A patient-friendly, week-by-week guide to recovery after total knee replacement: pain, swelling, range of motion, walking, driving, and return to activity.
Recovery After Hip Replacement
An overview of recovery after total hip replacement — the early weeks, walking and assistive devices, rebuilding strength, and the gradual return to the activities you enjoy.
Recovery After Knee Replacement
An overview of recovery after total knee replacement: pain control, swelling, physical therapy, walking, driving, and return to the activities you love.
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