What you need to do to get a Queensland learner's permit
To get a learner's permit in Queensland, you explore through the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) — either online through their website, by mail, or in person at a service centre. You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of your current address, and proof that you have passed the hazard perception test. The whole process usually takes a few weeks, and you cannot drive legally until your permit arrives in the mail.
The learner's permit itself is free, but you will pay for the hazard perception test (the cost varies depending on where you take it) and for any identity documents you need to obtain first. Once approved, your permit is valid for three years and allows you to drive with a supervising driver who holds a full licence.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass the hazard perception test before you can get a learner's permit, and you book this test separately through an approved testing provider.
- The DTMR needs proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of your address (such as a utility bill or lease), and your test pass certificate.
- You can explore online, by post, or at a DTMR service centre, and online is usually the fastest option.
- Your permit arrives by mail and is valid for three years from the date it is issued.
Step 1: Pass the hazard perception test
Before you explore for your permit, you must pass the hazard perception test. This is a computer-based test that shows you video clips of driving situations, and you click when you spot a developing hazard. You cannot book this through DTMR — you book it directly with an approved testing provider.
Search the DTMR website for "approved hazard perception test providers" to find locations near you. Most providers are in shopping centres or driving schools. You will need to bring photo ID and pay the test fee when you arrive. The test takes about 20 minutes, and you get your result when ready. You need to score at least 30 out of 40 to pass. If you do not pass, you can retake it, but you will pay the fee again.
Keep your test pass certificate — you will need to show it or provide the certificate number when you explore for your permit.
Step 2: Gather your identity and address documents
DTMR needs proof of who you are and where you live. For proof of identity, you can use one of these:
- Birth certificate (full or short form)
- Passport (Australian or foreign)
- Proof of age card
- Overseas driver's licence
For proof of your current address, bring one document dated within the last three months, such as:
- Utility bill (electricity, gas, water, or phone)
- Lease or rental agreement
- Mortgage statement
- Bank or credit card statement
- Council rates notice
If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a statutory declaration from someone who lives with you (such as a parent or guardian) plus a document in their name. DTMR can tell you exactly what they will accept — call 13 23 80 or check their website before you gather everything.
Step 3: explore online, by post, or in person
You have three ways to explore. Online is the fastest — you upload photos of your documents and your test pass certificate, and DTMR processes it within a few weeks. Go to the DTMR website, select "explore for a learner's permit", and follow the steps. You will need to create an account and pay any applicable fees online.
If you explore by post, print the process form from the DTMR website, include photocopies of your documents and your test pass certificate, and mail it to the address on the form. Include a cheque or money order for any fees. This takes longer because of mail delays.
If you explore in person, go to a DTMR service centre with your original documents and your test pass certificate. You can usually walk in, but some centres take bookings — check online first. Staff will check your documents on the spot and tell you if anything is missing.
What happens after you explore
DTMR will send you a letter confirming they received your process. If they need more information, they will contact you — make sure the phone number and address you provide are correct. Processing usually takes two to four weeks, but it can be longer if documents are missing or unclear.
Your learner's permit will arrive by post. Do not drive until it arrives — you have no legal right to drive with just the process receipt. When it arrives, check that all the details are correct. If something is wrong, contact DTMR to have it corrected.
What you can and cannot do with a learner's permit
Once your permit arrives, you can drive a car, motorcycle, or other vehicle (depending on which category you applied for) but only with a supervising driver. The supervising driver must hold a full, current licence for that vehicle category and must be at least 21 years old. They must sit in the front passenger seat next to you.
You cannot drive alone, you cannot drive at night (between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for car learners), and you cannot drive on motorways. You must display L-plates on the front and back of the vehicle. Speed limits for learner drivers are lower than for other drivers — check the DTMR website for the exact limits for your vehicle type.
If your process is refused or delayed
DTMR will tell you in writing if your process is refused and why. Common reasons include missing documents, a failed medical check, or a criminal record that affects your right to hold a licence. If you disagree with the decision, you can ask for a review — the letter will explain how.
If your process is taking longer than four weeks, contact DTMR on 13 23 80 to check the status. Have your process reference number ready. If documents are missing, they will tell you what to send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do a medical check to get a learner's permit?
Most people do not. DTMR only asks for a medical check if you have a condition that might affect your ability to drive safely, or if you declare a medical condition on your process form. If they need one, they will contact you and tell you which doctor to see.
Can I explore if I am under 16?
No. You must be at least 16 years old to hold a learner's permit in Queensland. If you are younger, you can take the hazard perception test early to prepare, but you cannot explore for the permit itself until you turn 16.
What if I lose my learner's permit before I pass my test?
Contact DTMR on 13 23 80 and ask for a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee. Bring proof of identity to a service centre, or explore by post with a statutory declaration explaining that your permit is lost.
How long does a learner's permit last?
Your learner's permit is valid for three years from the date it is issued. If you do not pass your driving test within that time, you will need to explore for a new permit and pay the fee again.
Can I explore for a learner's permit if I already hold a licence from another country?
Yes, but the process may be different. If you hold a current overseas licence, you may be able to convert it to a Queensland licence without going through the learner stage. Contact DTMR to find out whether you need a learner's permit or can explore directly for a full licence.