The NSW learner's permit test costs $43.50 as of 2024

The Learner Knowledge Test in New South Wales is administered by Service NSW and costs $43.50 per attempt. This is the written test you take at a Service NSW centre to prove you understand road rules before you can get your learner's permit. You pay this fee each time you sit the test, whether you pass or fail — there is no refund if you don't pass on your first try.

The test itself has 45 multiple-choice questions. You need to score at least 39 out of 45 (87 percent) to pass. The test takes about 45 minutes and covers road signs, speed limits, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices specific to NSW roads.

This fee covers only the test itself. You will also need to pay for your learner's permit card once you pass, which costs $30.50. If you need to replace a lost or damaged card later, that replacement costs $13.50.

Key Takeaways

  • The Learner Knowledge Test costs $43.50 per attempt at a Service NSW centre, and you pay whether you pass or fail.
  • You must score at least 39 out of 45 questions correctly to pass the 45-minute multiple-choice test.
  • After you pass the test, you pay a separate $30.50 fee for your learner's permit card.
  • You can book your test online through the Service NSW website or by calling 13 77 88.

Where to book and pay for the test

You book your Learner Knowledge Test through the Service NSW website or by calling 13 77 88. When you book online, you choose your preferred Service NSW centre and a time slot. You pay the $43.50 fee at the time of booking using a credit or debit card.

Service NSW centres are located across NSW in most towns and suburbs. You can find your nearest centre and check available test times on the Service NSW website. Some centres have more frequent test sessions than others, so booking ahead is wise if you want a specific date.

You can also walk into a Service NSW centre without booking, but you may have to wait or be turned away if no test slots are available that day. Booking online guarantees your spot and lets you know exactly when to arrive.

What you need to bring on test day

Bring a form of photo identification — your passport, Australian driver's licence, or proof-of-age card. You also need to bring your learner's permit process form, which you fill out before the test. Service NSW staff can help you complete this form if you arrive early.

Bring your mobile phone or a pen and paper if you want to take notes while you study in the waiting area. You cannot bring notes, phones, or any other materials into the test room itself — the test is supervised and invigilated.

Arrive at least 10 minutes early. The centre will check your identity, confirm your booking, take your payment if you booked by phone, and then direct you to the test room.

How the test works and what it covers

The test is computer-based and presented on a screen at the Service NSW centre. You read each question and select your answer from four options. The system shows you when ready whether you can move to the next question — you cannot go back to change previous answers.

The 45 questions cover NSW road rules, traffic signs, speed limits, parking rules, and safe driving practices. Questions test your knowledge of when you can and cannot drive, what your learner's permit restrictions are, and how to respond to different road situations. You will see questions about pedestrian crossings, roundabouts, lane discipline, and the road rules specific to learner drivers in NSW.

The test does not include a practical driving component — that comes later when you take your Practical Driving Test. This is purely a knowledge test of the road rules.

What happens if you don't pass

If you score below 39 out of 45, you fail and do not receive your learner's permit. You can sit the test again, but you must pay the $43.50 fee each time. There is no waiting period between attempts — you can book another test when ready if you want.

Most people pass on their first or second attempt. If you fail, the Service NSW staff can tell you which topic areas you struggled with so you know what to study before your next attempt. You can use practice tests and study materials to prepare between attempts.

You have no time limit on how many times you can sit the test, but each attempt costs $43.50. Some people choose to wait a week or two between attempts to study more thoroughly rather than retaking it when ready.

After you pass: getting your learner's permit card

Once you pass the test, you pay the $30.50 learner's permit card fee and receive your card on the spot at the Service NSW centre. Your learner's permit is valid for three years. The card shows your photo, name, date of birth, and the conditions you must follow as a learner driver.

As a learner, you must display L-plates on your vehicle, stay under the speed limit for learner drivers in your state, and always have a supervising driver with you. Your learner's permit card is proof that you have passed the knowledge test and are legally allowed to drive under these conditions.

You keep your learner's permit until you pass your Practical Driving Test and get your provisional licence. The practical test has its own separate fee and booking process.

Total cost from start to licence

The Learner Knowledge Test is the first paid step, but it is not the only one. Here is what you will pay in total to move from learner to provisional driver:

  • Learner Knowledge Test: $43.50 (per attempt if you need more than one)
  • Learner's permit card: $30.50 (one-time, after you pass the test)
  • Practical Driving Test: $93.50 (booked separately after you have held your learner's permit for at least six months)
  • Provisional licence card: $30.50 (after you pass the practical test)

The total for one successful run through all tests is $198, but this assumes you pass each test on your first attempt. If you need to retake the knowledge test or the practical test, you pay the test fee again for each attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I fail the test?

No. The $43.50 test fee is non-refundable whether you pass or fail. You pay the same amount each time you sit the test. There is no discount for multiple attempts or any other circumstance.

How long does it take to get a test appointment?

This depends on your location and how far ahead you book. In busy areas, you might wait two to four weeks for an appointment. In quieter areas, you may find slots available within a few days. Booking online shows you available times when ready, so you can see what is available in your area.

What if I lose my learner's permit card after I pass the test?

You can get a replacement card at any Service NSW centre for $13.50. Bring your photo ID and proof of your address. The replacement card is issued on the spot and has the same validity as your original.

Do I have to pass the knowledge test before I can book a practical driving test?

Yes. You must pass the Learner Knowledge Test and hold your learner's permit for at least six months before you can book a Practical Driving Test. The practical test cannot be booked until both conditions are met.

Can I sit the test in a language other than English?

The test is available in English and several other languages through Service NSW. When you book, you can request an interpreter or a test in another language. Contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 to arrange this before you book your test time.