Updated April 2026 13 min read

How to Get a Driver's Licence in Australia (State-by-State Guide)

One of the first things many new migrants need to sort out in Australia is driving. Whether you're a permanent resident, temporary visa holder, or international student, the rules around using your overseas licence and converting it vary significantly between states. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Overview: Driving in Australia

Australia drives on the left side of the road, which can be a major adjustment if you're from a country that drives on the right. The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle, and you'll need to get used to roundabouts, give-way rules, and strict speed enforcement.

Every state and territory in Australia manages its own licensing system, which means the rules for converting an overseas licence are different depending on where you live. This can be confusing for new arrivals, so we've broken it down state by state below.

The general rule is: temporary visa holders can usually drive on their overseas licence (with an English translation or International Driving Permit) for the duration of their visa, while permanent residents must convert to an Australian licence within a set period (usually 3-6 months).

International Driving Permits

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your overseas licence into multiple languages including English. It is NOT a standalone licence — you must always carry your original overseas licence with it.

Do You Need an IDP?

• If your licence is in English: You generally do not need an IDP in any Australian state. Your original licence is sufficient.
• If your licence is NOT in English: You need either an IDP or a NAATI-certified English translation to drive legally in Australia.

Where to Get an IDP

You must obtain an IDP from your home country before arriving in Australia. It cannot be issued in Australia. IDPs are typically issued by your country's automobile association (e.g., AAA in the USA, AA in the UK, JAF in Japan). They usually cost $15-30 USD and are valid for 1 year.

When You Must Convert

The deadline to convert your overseas licence to an Australian licence depends on your visa type and which state you live in:

State-by-State Conversion Guide

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW is managed by Transport for NSW. Permanent residents must convert within 3 months of becoming a resident.

• Recognised countries (no driving test): If you held a full licence for 3+ years from a recognised country (UK, USA, Canada, most EU countries, Japan, South Korea, and others), you can convert directly without a driving test — only a knowledge test (Driver Knowledge Test/DKT) is required.
• Non-recognised countries: You'll need to pass both the DKT and a practical driving test.
• Less than 3 years experience: You may be issued a provisional (P-plate) licence regardless of your age.
• Cost: DKT $49 + licence fee ~$60-190 (depending on licence duration) + driving test ~$48 if required.

Victoria (VIC)

Victoria is managed by VicRoads. Victoria gives you the longest conversion window — 6 months from becoming a permanent resident.

• Recognised countries: Direct conversion with no tests if you held a full licence for 3+ years from a recognised country.
• Non-recognised countries: Both a knowledge test (Learner Permit Test) and practical driving test (hazard perception test may also apply).
• Cost: Knowledge test ~$38 + licence fee ~$80-320 (1-10 year options) + driving test ~$55 if required.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland is managed by Queensland Transport. Permanent residents must convert within 3 months.

• Recognised countries: No tests required. Direct conversion with valid licence, identity documents, and proof of residence.
• Non-recognised countries: Written road rules test and practical driving test required.
• Cost: Written test ~$35 + licence fee ~$75-190 + practical test ~$65 if required.

Western Australia (WA)

WA is managed by the Department of Transport. Convert within 3 months of becoming a resident.

• Recognised countries: Direct conversion for experienced drivers. May need to complete a computerised theory test depending on your country.
• Non-recognised countries: Theory test and practical driving assessment required.
• Cost: Theory test ~$20 + licence fee ~$50-170 + practical test ~$70 if required.

South Australia (SA)

SA is managed by Service SA. Convert within 3 months.

• Recognised countries: Direct transfer with proof of 2+ years driving experience.
• Non-recognised countries: Theory and practical tests required.
• Cost: Theory test ~$24 + licence fee ~$60-180 + practical test ~$45 if required.

Tasmania (TAS)

Tasmania is managed by Service Tasmania. Convert within 3 months.

• Recognised countries: Direct conversion for experienced drivers.
• Non-recognised countries: Knowledge and practical tests required.
• Cost: Knowledge test ~$30 + licence fee ~$60-170 + practical test ~$55 if required.

Northern Territory (NT)

The NT is managed by Motor Vehicle Registry. Important: even temporary visa holders must convert within 3 months in the NT.

• Recognised countries: Direct conversion available.
• Non-recognised countries: Written and practical tests required.
• Cost: Written test ~$25 + licence fee ~$50-150 + practical test ~$45 if required.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

The ACT is managed by Access Canberra. Convert within 3 months.

• Recognised countries: Direct conversion for experienced drivers.
• Non-recognised countries: Road rules knowledge test and practical test required.
• Cost: Knowledge test ~$35 + licence fee ~$55-180 + practical test ~$50 if required.

The Conversion Process

Regardless of which state you're in, the general process for converting your licence follows these steps:

1. Gather your documents: Passport, visa grant letter, proof of address (utility bill or bank statement), current overseas licence, English translation or IDP (if licence is not in English), and identity documents (birth certificate or national ID)
2. Book an appointment at your local licensing centre (most states allow online booking)
3. Complete an eyesight test at the service centre (basic reading of a chart — no separate optometrist visit needed)
4. Pass the knowledge test (if required for your country) — usually a multiple-choice computer test about Australian road rules
5. Pass the practical driving test (if required) — a supervised drive of 30-45 minutes in real traffic
6. Pay the fees and receive your Australian licence (card posted within 1-2 weeks, interim paper licence issued immediately)
7. Surrender your overseas licence — most states require you to hand in your overseas licence, though some will return it stamped as "converted"

Knowledge & Driving Tests

Knowledge Test (Theory Test)

The knowledge test is a computer-based multiple-choice exam about Australian road rules. Key details:

• Questions: Usually 30-45 multiple-choice questions
• Pass mark: Typically 75-80% depending on the state
• Topics covered: Speed limits, give-way rules, roundabouts, school zones, alcohol limits, road signs, lane use, parking rules
• Study resources: Each state provides a free road rules handbook online — download and study it before the test
• Languages: Some states offer the test in multiple languages (NSW offers it in over 30 languages)
• Retake: If you fail, you can usually rebook after a waiting period of 1-7 days

Practical Driving Test

If you need to take a practical driving test, here's what to expect:

• Duration: 30-45 minutes of actual driving
• Route: You'll drive in real traffic conditions including suburban streets, main roads, and intersections
• Tasks: Lane changes, parallel parking, three-point turns, roundabouts, merging, hill starts
• Vehicle: You must provide your own vehicle (roadworthy, registered, and insured) or hire one through a driving school
• Supervised practice: Consider booking 2-3 lessons with a local driving instructor to familiarise yourself with left-side driving and local road conditions

Costs by State

These costs are approximate and apply if you need both tests. If you're from a recognised country and only need the knowledge test (or no tests at all), your total cost will be lower. Use our Cost of Living tool to factor licence costs into your overall budget.

Key Australian Road Rules

Australia has some road rules that may be different from what you're used to. Here are the most important ones:

Driving on the Left

Australia drives on the left side of the road. This means you overtake on the right, and the right lane on a multi-lane road is for overtaking. The most dangerous time for new left-side drivers is when turning — it's easy to instinctively turn into the wrong lane, especially on quiet roads or early in the morning.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts are extremely common in Australia. The key rule: give way to vehicles already in the roundabout (coming from your right). Always indicate when exiting a roundabout. Multi-lane roundabouts can be confusing — study the rules in your state's road handbook.

Speed Limits

• Residential streets: 50 km/h (default unless signed otherwise)
• School zones: 40 km/h during school hours (heavy fines for exceeding)
• Main roads: 60-80 km/h
• Highways/freeways: 100-110 km/h (some NT highways are 130 km/h)

Speed cameras are widespread in Australia, including fixed cameras, mobile cameras, and average speed cameras. Fines for speeding are steep — even 1-2 km/h over the limit can result in a fine in some states.

Alcohol Limits

• Full licence holders: 0.05 BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration)
• P-plate and learner drivers: 0.00 BAC (zero tolerance)

Random breath testing (RBT) is common. Police set up checkpoints and can stop any driver to test for alcohol. Drug testing is also increasingly common.

Mobile Phone Use

Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless it's in a cradle and used hands-free. Touching your phone at all while driving (even at traffic lights) can result in fines of $300-1,000+ and demerit points. Learner and P-plate drivers cannot use phones at all, even hands-free.

Seatbelts

All occupants must wear seatbelts at all times. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 are wearing seatbelts. Children must be in appropriate car seats/restraints based on their age.

Tips for New Drivers in Australia

1. Practice Before Your Test

Even experienced drivers should book a couple of driving lessons with a local instructor. They'll help you get comfortable with left-side driving, local road layouts, and the specific test route in your area. Budget $60-80 per lesson.

2. Download Your State's Road Rules Handbook

Every state offers a free digital road rules handbook. Read it cover to cover before the knowledge test. Focus on roundabout rules, give-way rules, and speed limits — these are the most commonly tested topics.

3. Get a Dashcam

Dashcams are increasingly popular in Australia and can protect you in the event of an accident or insurance claim. They're available from $50-200 at major retailers like Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, or online.

4. Understand Toll Roads

Major cities (especially Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane) have electronic toll roads. You need an e-tag or pass before using them, or you'll receive a fine. Set up an account with Linkt (national) or your state's toll provider within 3 days of using a toll road.

5. Watch for Wildlife

Kangaroos, wombats, and other wildlife are a real driving hazard, especially at dawn, dusk, and in regional areas. If an animal appears in your path, brake firmly but do not swerve — swerving at speed can cause a more serious accident than hitting the animal.

For more settling-in tips, read our First 30 Days in Australia guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Australia on an international licence?

Yes, if you're a temporary visa holder. You can drive on your overseas licence (with an IDP or English translation if needed) for the duration of your temporary visa in most states. Permanent residents must convert within 3-6 months depending on the state.

Do I need to take a driving test if I'm from the UK?

In most states, no. The UK is on the "recognised countries" list in every state, so if you've held a full UK licence for 3+ years, you can typically convert directly without a driving test. You may still need a knowledge test in some states.

What if my overseas licence has expired?

You cannot drive on an expired licence in Australia. If it recently expired, some states may still allow you to convert it without additional tests. If it expired more than 5 years ago, you'll likely need to start the licensing process from scratch (learner permit, then provisional licence).

Can I drive interstate on a state licence?

Yes. An Australian licence issued in any state is valid across all states and territories. If you permanently move to a different state, you should transfer your licence to that state within 3 months.

Will I get P-plates as a new migrant?

It depends on your driving experience. If you've held an overseas licence for less than 3 years, some states may issue you a provisional (P-plate) licence. If you have 3+ years of overseas driving experience and are from a recognised country, you'll typically get a full licence.

Is car insurance mandatory in Australia?

Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is mandatory and included in your vehicle registration (called "Green Slip" in NSW). This covers injury to other people. Comprehensive and third-party property insurance is optional but strongly recommended — it covers damage to vehicles and property.