Obtaining your Learner’s Permit, often referred to as your Ls, is the crucial first step in the journey towards getting your driver’s licence in Australia. This blog post will guide you through the entire process, from preparing for the learner permit test to taking your first solo drive. We’ll also answer common questions about the learner’s permit, such as age requirements and how to upgrade to a full licence.

What is a Learner’s Permit?

A learner’s permit is a restricted licence issued to beginner drivers who are learning to drive. It allows you to practice driving under supervision to gain the skills and experience needed to pass your driving test. To obtain your learner’s permit, you must pass a learner permit test, which assesses your knowledge of road rules and safe driving practices.

How to Prepare for the Learner Permit Test

Preparation is key to passing the learner permit test on your first attempt. Here are some steps to get you ready:

1. Study the Road Rules Handbook: Each Australian state has its own road rules handbook, which is the primary resource for the test. Make sure you thoroughly read and understand this handbook.
2. Take Practice Tests: Numerous online resources offer learner permit test practice questions. These tests can help you become familiar with the format and types of questions you will encounter.
3. Attend a Road Safety Course: Some states offer or even require a road safety course. These courses provide valuable information and tips for new drivers.

Tips for Passing the Learner Permit Test First Go

1. Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to study and take practice tests.
2. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify areas where you struggle and focus on improving your knowledge in those areas.
3. Stay Calm: On test day, stay calm and focused. Read each question carefully and don’t rush your answers.

How to Book the Learner Permit Test

Booking your learner permit test varies by state. We recommend that you download the Licence4Me Learner’s App, fill in the simple questionnaire, and then all the appropriate links and resources for your state will be at your fingertips.  The app will provide you with the appropriate link to book your learner permit test.

What You Get Once You Have Completed the Learner Permit Test

After passing your learner permit test, you will receive your learner’s permit. This allows you to start learning to drive under supervision. You may be issued a learner’s logbook to record your practice hours, which is a requirement in most states.  Read more about learner permit log books.

How Long It Lasts For

The duration of a learner’s permit varies by state:

• NSW: 5 years
• VIC: 10 years
• QLD: 3 years
• SA: 2 years
• WA: 3 years
• TAS: 3 years
• NT: 2 years
• ACT: 5 years

What the Learner Permit Allows You to Do

With a learner’s permit, you can drive under the supervision of a fully licensed driver. Each state has specific rules and restrictions:

• NSW: Must display L plates, drive under the speed limit of 90 km/h, and no mobile phone use.
• VIC: Must display L plates, no mobile phone use, and adhere to specific speed limits.
• QLD: Must display L plates and adhere to supervised driving conditions.
• SA: Must display L plates and adhere to a maximum speed of 100 km/h.
• WA: Must display L plates, drive under the speed limit of 100 km/h, and adhere to supervised driving conditions.
• TAS: Must display L plates, and no mobile phone use.
• NT: Must display L plates and adhere to supervised driving conditions.
• ACT: Must display L plates and adhere to supervised driving conditions.

What’s the Next Step After Getting Your Ls?

After obtaining your learner’s permit, the next step is to complete the required supervised driving hours. The number of hours required varies by state:

• NSW: 120 hours (including 20 hours of night driving)
• VIC: 120 hours (including 20 hours of night driving)
• QLD: 100 hours (including 10 hours of night driving)
• SA: 75 hours (including 15 hours of night driving)
• WA: 50 hours
• TAS: 80 hours (including 15 hours of night driving)
• NT: 50 hours
• ACT: 100 hours (including 10 hours of night driving)

It’s important to note that the age at which you can get your learner’s permit and the requirements for upgrading to a full licence vary. In most states, you can get your learner’s permit at 16 years old. However, you must meet certain criteria to upgrade from a learner’s licence to a provisional or full licence, typically involving passing a driving test.

We recommend that you download the Licence4Me Learner’s App, fill in the simple questionnaire, and then you can enter your total logged hours and answer a couple of extra questions (depending on the state) to calculate the actual hours you still need before you can go for your drive test.

The Licence4Me Learner app also provides valuable resources to help you pass your driving test and be a great driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Buy a Car with a Learner’s Licence in Australia?

Yes, you can buy a car with a learner’s licence in Australia. However, you will need to have a fully licensed driver to drive the car or supervise you while you are driving.

What Happens if I Drive with a Learner’s Licence?

Driving with a learner’s licence requires strict adherence to the conditions set by your state. Driving unsupervised or not displaying L plates can result in fines, demerit points, and potentially losing your learner’s permit.

Can I Get a Learner’s Permit at 25 Years Old?

Yes, you can get a learner’s permit at 25 years old. The age limit for obtaining a learner’s permit varies, but there is generally no upper age limit.

How Do I Upgrade to a Full Licence from a Learner’s Licence?

To upgrade from a learner’s licence to a full licence, you typically need to:

1. Complete the required supervised driving hours.
2. Pass a practical driving test.
3. Hold a provisional licence for a specified period without any major traffic offences.

Can I Get a Driver’s Licence at 16 Years Old?

In most Australian states, you can obtain a learner’s permit at 16 years old. However, the age to get a full driver’s licence varies, and you must meet the specific requirements of your state.

How to Ask Your Mum or Dad for a car, or for help to get your licence?

Asking your mum for a car or driver’s licence can be daunting. Here are some tips:

1. Be Responsible: Show that you are responsible and understand the responsibilities of driving.
2. Present a Plan: Explain why you need a car and/or driver’s licence and how it will benefit you.
3. Offer to Contribute: Offer to pay for some of the costs or contribute to the upkeep of the car.
4. Be Patient: Understand that it is a big decision and give your parents time to consider your request.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to get your Ls and begin your journey towards becoming a fully licensed driver in Australia. Good luck!