Step-by-step guide for beginners
1.1 Driver Knowledge Test (DKT)
This is the first step to obtaining an Australian driver’s licence and can be done from the age of 16. You can schedule and take the test either in person or online – in both cases the fee is $57:
- In person: You book a date and time to take the test on a Service NSW computer. It consists of 45 questions, and you must get 12 out of 15 general knowledge questions correct and 29 out of 30 road safety questions correct. If you fail, you will need to pay the fee again to reschedule the test.
- Online: You can take the test from home, but before doing so you must complete a 4–6 hour online course before the final test. If you fail, you can retake the test at no additional cost after 12 hours.
When I did it, the online option didn’t exist, but I believe it’s the best choice for learning about the country’s road laws and preparing for the driving test. Besides the convenience of doing it from home, you can retake it at no extra cost if you fail. For those who prefer taking it in person, there are several websites and apps to practise the test questions.
Once you pass the theory test, you can obtain your Learner Licence.
1.2 Logbook – 120 hours of driving practice (under 25s)*
After getting your Learner Licence, you must complete 120 hours of supervised driving with a full licence holder. The hours must be recorded in the Logbook (a record book provided at Service NSW or through the official government app). You must complete 120 driving hours (including 20 at night) and hold your Learner Licence for at least one year before taking the practical test.
To speed up the process, you can:
- Take lessons with an instructor – the first 10 hours count as triple, so you record 30 hours for 10 lessons completed.
- Take the Safer Drivers Course, which lasts 5 hours but counts as 20 hours in your logbook.
*If you are over 25, the process is much quicker, as you don’t need to hold the Learner Licence for a year or complete logbook hours.
1.3 Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
A test done at Service NSW that assesses your response to risky situations.
- For those over 25, this test can be booked right after passing the theory test.
- For under 25s, it can be booked after 10 months with the Learner Licence.
Like the DKT, you can find websites and apps to practise before taking it.
1.4 Driving Test
The practical driving test is done at the chosen Service NSW location at your scheduled time. The test lasts around 35 minutes and assesses your ability to drive safely while following traffic laws. During the test, the examiner will give directions and evaluate how you meet the assessment criteria (yes, they’ll be taking notes the whole time). To pass, you need to meet 90% of the criteria without making any critical errors (F1 – F19).
Service NSW provides a guide of what will be tested.
If you pass, you’ll get your Red Ps (Provisional P1 Licence), which lasts for one year. After that, if you haven’t been suspended, you’ll progress to the Green Ps (P2 Licence) for two years, and finally to a Full Licence. Otherwise, you’ll remain on your Learner Licence and need to retake the test until you pass.
If you need lessons to learn how to drive and get logbook hours, I offer packages starting from 5 lessons. Count on my help during this process!