Applying for your first driving licence in Australia is a major step toward independence, and while requirements vary by state, the process follows a clear path from a learner permit to a full licence. Turning 18 means you’re eligible to progress into the provisional stage, but before you reach that point, there are structured steps to complete. This guide is designed to give young Australians an up-to-date, easy-to-follow process for securing their first licence without confusion.
Understanding the Licence Stages
Australia’s licensing system is graduated to ensure new drivers gain experience before receiving a full licence. While individual state rules differ slightly, here’s the universal progression:
- Step 1 – Learner Permit: Available from age 16 after passing a road rules knowledge test.
- Step 2 – Provisional P1 Licence: Typically obtained between 17–18 after completing the required supervised driving hours.
- Step 3 – Provisional P2 Licence: Achieved around 19–20 after holding P1 for the mandated period.
- Step 4 – Full Licence: Available at 21+ after successfully passing the advanced driving test.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply
- Book Your Knowledge Test
Go to your state’s transport department website—such as VicRoads, Transport for NSW, or Queensland Transport—to make a booking. - Prepare for the Test
Study your state’s official Driver’s Handbook that explains road laws, signs, penalties, and safety rules. Many states now offer online practice tests. - Pass the Knowledge Test
This may be done online or in-person, depending on your state rules. Passing grants you a learner permit. - Complete Your Logbook Hours
As a learner, you must record supervised driving hours—usually between 50 and 120 depending on your state—covering a variety of conditions like night driving and wet weather. - Book Your Driving Test
Once you meet the supervised hours requirement and minimum age, book the practical driving test. This includes a vehicle safety check, hazard perception test (in some states), and on-road assessment. - Obtain Your Provisional Licence
Passing the driving test upgrades you to a P1 licence. You must then comply with probationary driving restrictions until eligible for P2. - Progress to Full Licence
Hold P1 and P2 for the required periods, remain offence-free where possible, and pass the final driving assessment.
Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have:
- Birth certificate or passport for identity verification
- Proof of residential address (bank statement, utility bill, lease agreement)
- A completed medical fitness form if required
- Vision test results
Having these ready prevents delays during the application process.
Special State Differences
- NSW: Requires a Hazard Perception Test before moving to P1.
- Victoria: Offers online learner permit tests with ID verification before in-person driving tests.
- Queensland: Minimum of 100 hours logged, including 10 hours at night.
Always check your local transport authority website to confirm rules as they change periodically.
Tips for Learner Drivers
- Log hours as soon as you start learning—don’t leave entries until the last minute.
- Practice in varied traffic conditions and locations to build skill.
- Learn vehicle safety checks, as they are part of most driving assessments.
- Stay updated with new road laws relevant to your state.
- Drive defensively—early habits often last for life.
Age-Based Process Summary
| Stage | Minimum Age | Key Requirement | Licence Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 16 years | Pass road rules test | Learner Permit |
| Step 2 | 17–18 years | Complete supervised hours | Provisional P1 |
| Step 3 | 19–20 years | Hold P1 for required duration | Provisional P2 |
| Step 4 | 21+ years | Pass full licence driving test | Full Licence |
By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, turning 18 in Australia can mark the start of safe, independent driving. Careful planning, proper document organization, and a commitment to road safety will help you move from a learner to a full licence holder smoothly.