Graduated driver training
The driver training and licensing system is designed to ensure you get a wide range of supervised driving experience over a longer period of time before driving solo.
There are two phases in getting your driver's licence. Here are the steps to obtaining your provisional licence.
First step - learner's permit
You can apply for a learner's permit at any licensing centre of licensing agent any time after you turn 16. Before being issued with a learner's permit you will have to pass a theory test. This computerised test consists of 30 multiple choice questions on road rules and safe driving practice. You can practice on the online learner's quiz and read the Drive Safe book to help you pass the test.
Second step - learning to drive
This step is where you can begin lessons with a qualified instructor.
Third step - practical driving assessment
This stage is where you can take the practical driving assessment. You must be at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the driving assessment. To help you pass this assessment you should read the Candidate's Guide to Passing the Practical Driving Assessment which is available from licensing centres and licensing agents.
Fourth step - log book
When you have passed your driving assessment you can move to the next step to gaining your provisional driver licence. In this stage you still need to drive under supervision and you will also have to maintain a log book and accumulate a minimum of 25 hours of driving experience across a range of conditions.
You must take at least 6 months to accumulate the 25 hours of driving experience. (Some exemptions apply.) You will not be able to attempt the Hazard Perception Test until at least 6 months after passing your practical driving assessment and accruing at least 25 hours of experience.
You must still continue to display your L plates during this stage.
Fifth stage - Hazard Perception Test
On or after your 17th birthday, and once the log book has been checked at a licensing centre or agent you will have to pass the Hazard Perception Test to get your provisional licence.
The test is used to determine your ability to assess traffic situations and to make safe driving decisions. The test consists of a computer screen that displays a series of moving traffic scenes. You have to respond to each scene by clicking a mouse to indicate when it is safe to commence a manoeuvre or when it is necessary to take the appropriate action to reduce the risk of a crash for the traffic situation.
More information on the Hazard Perception Test is available on by downloading the brochure. A demonstration CD and booklet is available about the Hazard Perception Test (Please note not all computers will be able to run the CD).
Once you have passed the Hazard Perception Test you will be able to driver unsupervised. There are certain restrictions and conditions that P-platers must adhere to. Please see the Novice driver section for more information.
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