What you need to do to get a learner's permit in Victoria

To get a learner's permit in Victoria, you must be at least 16 years old and pass a written knowledge test through VicRoads. The process takes about two to four weeks from the time you submit your documents. You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of age, and proof of your current address — all originals or certified copies. VicRoads will not issue a permit without these documents, so gathering them first saves time.

The knowledge test covers road rules, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to Victoria. You can study using the official VicRoads handbook or the free online learning modules on the VicRoads website. The test itself is multiple choice, taken at a VicRoads office or approved testing centre, and you need to score at least 80 percent to pass. Most people pass on their first attempt if they study the handbook thoroughly.

Once you pass the test, VicRoads issues your learner's permit, which is valid for five years. You can then legally drive on Victorian roads with a supervising driver who holds a full licence and is at least 21 years old. The supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat next to you.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 16 years old and provide original or certified copies of proof of identity, proof of age, and proof of address to VicRoads.
  • The knowledge test requires a score of at least 80 percent and covers Victorian road rules, signs, and safe driving practices from the official handbook.
  • You can study using the free VicRoads handbook or online learning modules before booking your test at a VicRoads office or approved testing centre.
  • After passing the test, your learner's permit is valid for five years and allows you to drive with a supervising driver aged 21 or over in the front passenger seat.

Gather your identity and address documents

VicRoads requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of age, and proof of your current address. Acceptable proof of identity includes a birth certificate, passport, or proof of age card. Proof of age can be a birth certificate or passport. Proof of address must be a recent document in your name — a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement dated within the last three months works.

Bring originals or certified copies to your appointment. A certified copy is a photocopy that has been certified by a lawyer, accountant, or other authorised person — VicRoads offices cannot certify documents for you. If you do not have all three documents, contact VicRoads before your appointment to confirm what alternatives they will accept, as some situations have exceptions.

Study the Victorian road rules and book your test

The knowledge test covers material in the official VicRoads handbook, which is free to read from the VicRoads website or to pick up in print at any VicRoads office. The handbook explains road signs, speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking rules, and safe driving practices. Most people spend two to four weeks studying before they feel ready to sit the test.

VicRoads also offers free online learning modules on their website that walk through the handbook section by section. These modules include practice questions and are designed to help you learn at your own pace. After you feel confident, book your knowledge test through the VicRoads website or by calling 13 11 71. You can choose a test date at a VicRoads office or at an approved testing centre in your area — both charge the same fee and run the same test.

Sit the knowledge test at your scheduled appointment

Arrive at least 15 minutes early with your proof of identity document. The test is multiple choice, taken on a computer, and takes about 45 minutes. You need to score at least 80 percent — that is 32 out of 40 questions correct. The test covers all sections of the handbook, so study all of it rather than focusing on one area.

If you pass, VicRoads will issue your learner's permit on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the testing centre. If you do not pass, you can sit the test again, but you must wait at least one week before your next attempt. Most people pass on their second try if they study the sections they found difficult the first time.

Understand the rules for driving with your learner's permit

Your learner's permit allows you to drive on Victorian roads only when a supervising driver is with you. The supervising driver must hold a full Australian driving licence, be at least 21 years old, and sit in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only passengers your own age.

While you hold a learner's permit, you must display L-plates on the front and back of the vehicle. You must not drive on motorways. You must not tow a trailer. Speed limits for learner drivers are the same as for other drivers, but you should practise in quieter areas first to build confidence. Your supervising driver can give you feedback and help you develop safe habits before you sit your driving test.

Know when your learner's permit expires and what comes next

Your learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can check the expiry date on your permit card. If your permit expires before you sit your driving test, you will need to sit the knowledge test again and get a new permit.

Once you feel confident driving, you can book a practical driving test with VicRoads. The driving test takes about 45 minutes and covers your ability to control the vehicle, follow road rules, and respond to traffic. You must pass the driving test to get your provisional licence. After that, you will progress through the provisional licence stages before reaching a full licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sit the knowledge test before I turn 16?

No. You must be at least 16 years old on the day you sit the test. VicRoads will ask for proof of age at your appointment, so bring your birth certificate or passport.

What happens if I fail the knowledge test?

You can sit the test again after waiting at least one week. There is no limit to how many times you can sit the test. Review the sections of the handbook you found difficult and use the online learning modules to practise those areas before your next attempt.

Do I need a supervising driver who is related to me?

No. Your supervising driver can be anyone who holds a full Australian licence and is at least 21 years old. They do not need to be a family member or a professional instructor.

Can I drive on a motorway with my learner's permit?

No. Learner permit holders are not allowed to drive on motorways in Victoria. You can only drive on motorways once you have passed your driving test and hold a provisional licence.

What if I lose my learner's permit?

Contact VicRoads to report the loss. You can request a replacement permit, which VicRoads will mail to you. There is a fee for a replacement permit. You can continue to drive while you wait for the replacement as long as you can show proof that you have reported the loss.