How to Apply for a Victorian Driver’s Licence: A Complete Guide

Getting your driver’s licence in Victoria is a big step towards freedom. Whether you’re a teenager itching to take the wheel or an adult finally ready to learn, this guide breaks it down for you — no stress, no fluff.

We’ll go through the whole process from getting your Ls to finally holding your full licence in your hand. Everything is written in simple terms, so you won’t need to go hunting for answers anywhere else.

Let’s get started.

Step 1: Getting Your Learner Permit (Ls)

First things first — the learner permit. This is where every driver in Victoria begins.

You can apply for your Ls once you turn 16. To do that, you’ll need to pass the Learner Permit Test, which checks your knowledge of road rules and safe driving practices. You can take the test either online or in person at a VicRoads customer service centre.

Before the test, it’s a good idea to go through the Road to Solo Driving handbook. It covers all the stuff you need to know — signs, laws, safety rules, and more.

You’ll also need:

Proof of identity (like your passport or Medicare card)
A residential address in Victoria
To be medically fit to drive
To pass an eyesight test
To pay the test and permit fees

Once you pass, you’re officially on your Ls and can start driving with a supervisor.

Step 2: Start Driving and Logging Hours

Now the real learning begins — driving practice.

If you’re under 21, you’ll need to complete at least 120 hours of supervised driving. That includes 20 hours at night. It sounds like a lot, but the more you drive, the better you get.

You can record your driving hours using the myLearners app or the official Learner Log Book. Just make sure every drive is logged accurately with the date, duration, conditions, and who supervised you.

Your supervisor must have a full licence. This could be a parent, guardian, or a qualified driving instructor. Getting some professional lessons along the way is also a smart move — instructors can spot bad habits early.

Step 3: Pass the Hazard Perception Test

Once you’ve held your Ls for at least 12 months and are 17 years and 6 months old, you can book your Hazard Perception Test (HPT).

This test checks how well you can spot and react to potential dangers on the road. It’s not about memorising rules — it’s about real-world awareness.

You’ll watch a bunch of driving videos and click when you think it’s safest to act — like slowing down or overtaking. Practice tests are available online to help you prepare.

You can book the HPT online or at a VicRoads office. You’ll need to pass this before moving on to the final test.

Step 4: Take the Driving Test

This is the big one — the practical drive test.

To take it, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have passed the HPT
Completed your 120 logged driving hours
Have your learner permit and log book ready

The test checks your skills in real driving situations. The assessor will sit next to you and watch how you handle the car, follow signs, obey traffic rules, and make safe decisions. Don’t worry — they’re not there to trick you.

Before the test, make sure your car is roadworthy. That means it should be clean, registered, have working lights, brakes, and indicators. If you’re unsure, you can use your driving instructor’s car instead.

On the test day, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring your Ls, logbook, and any other required ID.

Step 5: Get Your Probationary Licence (Ps)

If you pass the P’s drive test — congrats! You’ll get your probationary licence, also known as your Ps.

For the first three years (or four, depending on your age), you’ll need to follow some extra rules:

You must display red or green P plates
You can’t use your phone at all while driving
Strict limits apply to the number of peer passengers (for red P-platers)
You’ll face extra penalties if caught speeding or breaking other rules

These restrictions are there to keep you — and others — safe as you continue to gain experience.

Step 6: Move to Your Full Licence

After the probation period, you can apply for your full driver’s licence. This step is usually automatic as long as you’ve followed the rules and haven’t lost any points along the way.

You’ll need to pay the full licence fee, and you may be able to do it online through your myVicRoads account. You’ll also get the option to access your licence digitally through the VicRoads app — handy if you forget your wallet.

CHECK OUR DRIVING LESSONS:

Additional Tips You Should Know

Create a myVicRoads account early. It makes booking tests, checking your progress, and managing your licence much easier.
If you’re converting an overseas licence, check if you need to take the knowledge or drive test, depending on where it’s from.
Stay up to date on any changes to road laws. VicRoads updates rules regularly.
Don’t rush the process. The more you practise, the safer you’ll be.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Victorian driver’s licence takes time, patience, and a fair bit of practice — but it’s totally worth it. Take each step seriously, learn the rules, and drive as much as you can while you’re on your Ls. The more prepared you are, the easier the tests will feel.

And remember: once you’ve got that little plastic card in your wallet, the road is all yours — just don’t forget to stay safe out there.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to get your full licence in Victoria?
A: For most young drivers, it takes at least 4 years — one year on your Ls and three on your Ps.

Q: Can I take the Learner Permit Test online?
A: Yes, you can take it online or at a VicRoads office. Just make sure you’ve studied the handbook and have a stable internet connection.

Q: What happens if I fail the drive test?
A: You can book another test. Use the feedback from your assessor to practise your weak areas before you try again.

Q: Do I need to use a driving instructor?
A: It’s not required, but highly recommended. Instructors know what testers look for and can help improve your confidence.

Q: Can I drive with passengers while on my Ls?
A: Yes, as long as a full-licensed supervising driver is sitting in the front passenger seat. Others can ride along too.