You've passed your Hazard Perception Test (HPT), now you need more experience (the more the better). Get comfortable driving in different conditions and prepare for your Ps!
Step 4
Get experience
Drive supervised on different roads, in different weather and traffic conditions – both day and night.
The rules say you need 50 hours minimum, including five hours of supervised night-time driving. That’s 25hrs before your HPT, plus another 25 hrs over at least six months after. You should aim to do as much practice as possible to really get your experience up.
Why? Practice helps reduce your crash risk and makes you a more skilled driver.
As a learner remember:
Display your Ls when driving.
Carry your learner’s permit.
It’s a 0.00% BAC.
Demerit points apply.
No driving in Kings Park.
Freeway is okay, up to a max 100km/h.
Record everything in your log book.
Step 5 Pass your Practical Driving Assessment (PDA)
When you’re ready to sit your PDA you can book and pay for it at a Driver and Vehicle Services centre or a Post Office (in some regional areas).
About the test:
You must be 17 years of age or older and completed 50 hours of supervised driving, including five hours of supervised night-time driving.
It will take about 45 minutes.
The test has 5 sections.
A score is given for each section.
Your score will determine if you pass or fail.
After the test your assessor will go through your score sheet with you. If you don’t pass the first time, don’t panic! Get some more practice and book to sit the test again.
If you pass, smile for the camera (licence photo) and pay the fee for your Ps. Congratulations you're road ready!
Please note: From 9 October 2017, the Department of Transport has introduced a re-sequence which requires learner drivers to complete the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) before the Practical Driving Assessment (PDA). In addition applicants must be 17 years of age or older and have completed 50 hours of supervised driving, including five hours of supervised night-time driving, before being eligible to attempt the PDA. For more information visit the Department of Transport website.
Step 6
Provisional Licence (P-Plates)
Yay, you passed! This is the most important time to remember everything you’ve learned and put it into practice.
Driving on your own is a new experience - don’t rush, be ready in your own time.
You’ll be on Red Ps for six months and then Green Ps for another 18 months.
You’re on the road now, you’re independent. This exciting time is also when you’re most at risk of being in a crash. Assess the risks — make good decisions.
