If you already have a foreign driver’s licence, the process is much faster. You only need to take the theory and practical tests.
Remember that you can use your foreign licence for up to 6 months after your first arrival in Australia.
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.
1.2 Driving Test
The practical driving test is done at your chosen Service NSW location at the scheduled time. The test lasts around 35 minutes, and they assess your ability to drive safely while following traffic laws. The booking fee is $70 per attempt.
To take the test, you must present:
- your foreign driver’s licence (or a consular declaration if lost).
- your learner licence (or the Australian Photo Card if you don’t have the learner’s– or your passport and a bank statement if you also don’t have the ID).
- the licence application form (available at Service NSW).
During the test, the examiner will give you directions and assess how you meet the criteria (yes, they’ll be taking notes the whole time). To pass, you must meet 90% of the criteria without committing any critical errors (F1 – F19).
Service NSW provides a summary guide of what will be required in the test.
If you pass, you will get the equivalent licence:
- Up to 1 year of foreign licence → Red P plates (Provisional P1).
- 1 to 3 years of foreign licence → Green P plates (Provisional P2).
- More than 3 years of foreign licence → Full Licence.
If you fail, you’ll need to get a Learner’s Licence (or remain on it if you already have one) and will receive the equivalent licence once you pass, regardless of the attempt.
Remember, the test is completely different from the way you drive in daily life. Even with experience, you might have habits or “shortcuts” that can harm your performance during the test.
I recommend taking at least one lesson beforehand to learn exactly what you need to do to pass. Count on me to help you through this process!