Moving to Australia and need to drive? Whether you're a permanent resident, temporary visa holder, or international student, understanding how to get an Australian driver's licence is essential. This comprehensive guide covers the requirements for all major Australian states, including important changes taking effect in 2025.
Quick State Comparison
| State | Time Limit to Convert | Tests Required (Recognised Country) | Tests Required (Non-Recognised) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | 3 months (PR) / 6 months (temp visa) | Usually none | Knowledge + Driving |
| Victoria | 6 months | Usually none | Learner + HPT + Driving |
| Queensland | 3 months | Usually none | Road rules + Driving |
| WA | 3 months | Usually none | Theory + PDA |
| SA | 3 months | Usually none | Theory + HPT + VORT |
Important 2025 Change: The "Experienced Driver Recognition" (EDR) exemption for drivers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and similar countries will end in 2025. If you hold a licence from these countries, convert before the deadline to avoid additional testing.
Understanding the Basics
Who Needs to Convert?
| Your Status | Driving Rules |
|---|---|
| Australian Citizen / PR | Must convert within 3 months of residency |
| Temporary Visa (staying 6+ months) | Must convert within timeframe (varies by state) |
| Tourist / Short-term Visitor | Can drive on overseas licence + IDP |
| International Student | Can use overseas licence while studying (most states) |
What You'll Need (All States)
- Valid overseas driver's licence (original, not expired)
- English translation (NAATI-certified if not in English)
- Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of Australian address (utility bill, lease)
- Visa documentation
- Passport-sized photos (some states)
- Application fee
New South Wales (NSW)
Time Limits
| Residency Status | Deadline to Convert |
|---|---|
| Australian citizen / PR | 3 months from arrival |
| NZ licence holder | 3 months from arrival |
| Temporary visa (arrived after July 2023) | 6 months from arrival |
| Temporary visa (arrived before July 2023) | Must convert by March 1, 2025 |
Testing Requirements
From a recognised country (e.g., UK, USA, Germany, Japan, NZ):
- No knowledge test required
- No driving test required
- Vision test only
From a non-recognised country:
- Knowledge test (road rules)
- Practical driving test
- Vision test
Age 75+:
- Medical review required
- Practical driving test may be required
Cost
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Licence application (1 year) | ~$59 |
| Licence application (5 years) | ~$196 |
| Knowledge test | ~$53 |
| Driving test | ~$60-80 |
Where to Apply
Visit any Service NSW Centre with your documents. Book online at service.nsw.gov.au for faster processing.
Victoria (VIC)
Time Limits
| Situation | Driving Rules |
|---|---|
| Staying less than 6 months | Can drive on overseas licence |
| Staying more than 6 months | Must convert to VIC licence |
| Permanent resident | 6 months to convert |
Note: The 6-month period starts from when you first begin living in Victoria, even if you leave and return.
Testing Requirements
From a recognised country:
- No tests required
- Verification of licence only
From a non-recognised country:
- Learner Permit Test
- Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
- Practical Drive Test
Age and experience factors:
- Under 18: Must apply for learner permit
- 18-22: May receive probationary licence
- Under 21 when first licensed: Probationary licence until 4 years total experience
Cost
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Licence application (10 years) | ~$318 |
| Learner permit test | ~$33 |
| Hazard perception test | ~$33 |
| Practical drive test | ~$88 |
Where to Apply
Visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. Book an appointment online at vicroads.vic.gov.au.
Queensland (QLD)
Time Limits
| Situation | Driving Rules |
|---|---|
| Visitor | Can drive on overseas licence |
| Resident (citizen or PR visa) | 3 months to convert |
Definition of Resident: An Australian citizen living in QLD for 3 months, OR a non-citizen granted a resident visa (permanent or special category) and living in QLD for 3 months.
Testing Requirements
From a recognised country:
- No tests required
From a non-recognised country or EDR country (after November 29, 2025):
- Road rules test (written)
- Practical driving test
Important 2025 Change
The Experienced Driver Recognition (EDR) pathway for countries like Taiwan and Hong Kong will end on November 29, 2025 in Queensland. After this date, licence holders from these countries will need to pass both tests regardless of age.
Cost
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Licence application (5 years) | ~$186 |
| Road rules test | ~$48 |
| Practical driving test | ~$67 |
Where to Apply
Visit a Transport and Main Roads (TMR) customer service centre, a QGAP office, or a licence-issuing police station (rural areas).
Western Australia (WA)
Time Limits
| Situation | Driving Rules |
|---|---|
| Visitor (temporary visa) | Can drive on overseas licence + IDP |
| Australian citizen / PR | 3 months to convert |
Testing Requirements
From a recognised country (e.g., UK, USA, Germany, Japan, NZ, Singapore):
- No theory test
- No practical driving assessment
- Eyesight test only
From a non-recognised country:
- Theory test
- Practical Driving Assessment (PDA)
- Eyesight test
Important 2025 Change
The EDR exemption ended on April 30, 2025, with a transition period until October 31, 2025 for WA residents from EDR countries. From November 1, 2025, drivers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, South Africa, and similar countries need both tests.
Cost
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Licence application (5 years) | ~$144 |
| Theory test | ~$21 |
| Practical driving assessment | ~$125 |
Where to Apply
Visit a Department of Transport (DoT) service centre or regional agent in person.
South Australia (SA)
Time Limits
| Situation | Driving Rules |
|---|---|
| Visitor | Can drive on overseas licence for up to 12 months |
| Permanent resident | 3 months to convert |
Testing Requirements
From a recognised country:
- No tests required
From a non-recognised country:
- Road rules knowledge test
- Hazard Perception Test (HPT)
- Vehicle On Road Test (VORT)
Important 2025 Change
From May 1, 2025, drivers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and similar countries will need to complete extra training to obtain a SA licence. These countries will no longer be eligible for test exemptions from April 30, 2025.
Cost
| Item | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Licence application (10 years) | ~$262 |
| Knowledge test | ~$36 |
| Hazard perception test | ~$36 |
| Practical test (VORT) | ~$125 |
Where to Apply
Visit a Service SA Centre with your documents.
Other States and Territories
Tasmania (TAS)
- Convert within 3 months of becoming a resident
- Most recognised country licences convert without testing
- Visit Service Tasmania
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Convert within 3 months of becoming a resident
- Recognised countries exempt from testing
- Visit Access Canberra
Northern Territory (NT)
- Convert within 3 months of becoming a resident
- Visit MVR (Motor Vehicle Registry)
Recognised Countries List (Most States)
These countries typically allow conversion without testing:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK |
| North America | Canada, USA |
| Asia | Japan, Singapore |
| Pacific | New Zealand |
Note: Taiwan, Hong Kong, and South Korea were previously under EDR exemptions but these will end in 2025. Check with your state authority for the most current list.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Check Your Eligibility
- Know your visa type and residency status
- Determine your state's deadline
- Check if your country is on the recognised list
2. Gather Documents
- Original overseas licence (valid, not expired)
- NAATI-certified English translation (if needed)
- Passport and visa
- Proof of Australian address (2-3 documents)
3. Get Translation (If Needed)
If your licence is not in English, get a NAATI-certified translation. Costs around $50-80.
4. Visit the Licensing Authority
- Book an appointment where possible
- Bring all original documents (no photocopies)
- Be prepared to pass an eyesight test
5. Complete Tests (If Required)
- Study your state's road rules handbook
- Book practical test in advance (often 2-4 week wait)
6. Receive Your Licence
- Some states issue temporary paper licence immediately
- Card licence mailed within 2-3 weeks
Tips for New Drivers in Australia
Understanding Australian Road Rules
- Drive on the left side of the road
- Speed limits are strictly enforced (cameras everywhere)
- Mobile phone use while driving is illegal without hands-free
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
- Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (zero for learners/P-platers)
Getting Car Insurance
Car insurance is separate from registration:
| Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| CTP (Compulsory Third Party) | Injury to other people (included in registration) |
| Third Party Property | Damage to other cars/property |
| Comprehensive | All damage including your own car |
Regional vs City Driving
- City driving: Heavy traffic, parking challenges, good public transport alternative
- Regional driving: Longer distances, wildlife hazards, fuel planning needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive on my overseas licence while my application is processed?
Yes, in most states you can continue driving on your valid overseas licence until your Australian licence is issued, as long as you're within the conversion timeframe.
What if my overseas licence has expired?
If it expired less than 12 months ago, most states will still allow conversion (with original documents). If more than 12 months, you may need to start the licensing process from scratch.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
For short visits, an IDP or certified translation is useful if your licence isn't in English. For permanent residents, you'll be converting to an Australian licence instead.
Can I drive interstate with my new licence?
Yes! An Australian licence from any state is valid to drive throughout Australia.
How First Migration Can Help
Understanding your visa status is essential for knowing your driver's licence obligations. At First Migration Service Centre, we can help clarify:
- Your residency status for licensing purposes
- Visa pathways that affect your time in Australia
- Documentation requirements for various applications
Ready to start your Australian journey? We invite you to submit a free visa assessment so we can understand your situation and provide tailored advice.
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Certified by the Migration Agents Registration Authority. Your trusted partner for Australian visa applications.
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