Having your learners permit is nice, but you know what's nicer? Getting your Probationary Driver Licence (Ps).
Here are five steps to help you move from your Ls to your Ps.
1. Drive up to 120 hours
Learner drivers under the age of 21 must complete a minimum of 120 hours of supervised driving experience (including at least 20 hours at night) before they can take the drive test.
The supervising driver must have a full (not probationary) Australian driver licence (or an overseas licence that authorises them to drive).
These hours must be recorded in the myLearners app, or an official learner log book that’s signed by the learner driver and their supervising driver.
If you're between the ages of 16 and 21 (and in some cases 23) and you don't have access to a supervising driver or a car, the TAC L2P program can help you get your 120 hours.
Minimum time for being on your Ls
There is a minimum time to be on your Ls before you can go for your Ps. If you’re:
- under the age of 21 you have to be on your Ls for 12 months
- you're between the ages of 21 and 25, you have to be on your Ls for 6 months
- if you're 25 years of age or older you have to be on your Ls for 3 months.
Consider driving lessons with an instructor
When learning to drive, it may be helpful to take some lessons with a professional driving instructor. This isn't required but instructors are experts in teaching you how to drive and will help you to eventually pass your driving test.
2. Book your tests
To get your licence you generally need to pass three tests:
- an eye test
- the Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
- the drive test.
To book these tests you can either:
- visit the VicRoads online booking service
- call VicRoads on 13 11 71
- visit your nearest VicRoads customer service centre.
3. Take the Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
The Hazard Perception Test is computer-based and tests whether you can recognise and respond to potential hazards (dangers) safely. The test is done online and your first attempt to pass is free.
VicRoads has an online hazard perception practice test which allows you to practise your hazard perception skills as many times as you like, for free.
4. Take the drive test
The drive test is where you are tested on your driving skills. If you pass this test you get a driver’s licence.
On the day of the drive test you need to bring:
- your learner permit
- your logbook or completed hours in the myLearners app
- a clean, registered, roadworthy vehicle with L plates
- payment for your licence.
VicRoads’s how to get your Ps page has more information.
Before the test you'll have your eyesight tested. You'll also need to let VicRoads know about any medical conditions that may affect your driving.
The drive test lasts for about 30 minutes and checks that you can:
- correctly control your vehicle
- obey the road rules
- cooperate with other road users
- drive safely.
What to expect at your drive test
During the test, your VicRoads testing officer will give you simple, clear instructions, like, 'at the next street, turn right.' The officer will mark you on how well you follow the instructions.
If you do anything illegal or unsafe, the testing officer can stop the test. They can also stop the test if anyone interferes or tries to help you.
At the end of the test you'll get your results. If you've passed you'll need to pay for your new probationary licence.
A list of licence fees is on the VicRoads website.
After you pay, you'll get a paper licence to use straight away. Your photographic licence will be sent to you in the mail.
5. Go for a drive
If you pass all three tests then congratulations - you're officially a P-plater!
The first thing you'll need is a set of P plates.
Whether you decide to buy, borrow or make your own, they need to meet the VicRoads requirements for displaying P plates.
Now it's time to familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations for probationary drivers.
