Getting your Ls or Ps in Victoria is a huge milestone. It means freedom, confidence, and let’s be honest—no more begging for lifts. But it also comes with a stack of rules that you really need to know.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve already got those red or green plates on, here’s everything you need to stay safe and out of trouble on Victorian roads.
L Plate (Learner) Driver Rules in Victoria
The minimum age to get your learner permit in Victoria is 16. Once you’ve passed the learner permit knowledge test, you’re officially on the road, but with a few strings attached.
You must always be supervised by a fully licenced driver (not on Ls or Ps) sitting beside you.
If you’re under 21, you’ll need to log at least 120 hours of driving, including 20 hours at night, before you’re allowed to book your driving test. That logbook? It has to be filled out properly. They do check.
Speed limit? Learners can drive up to 90 km/h, even if the posted limit is higher.
You cannot use your phone at all. No calls, no texts, no music apps. Not even on hands-free or Apple CarPlay. Yep—can P platers use Apple CarPlay Vic? Nope, not allowed for L or P1 drivers.
Also, you need to display your yellow L plates clearly on the front and back of your car. Forget to put them up? That’s a fine waiting to happen.
P1 Licence (Red P Plates) – What You Can and Can’t Do
Once you’ve passed the Hazard Perception Test and Drive Test, and you’re at least 18, you’ll get your red Ps. But with more freedom comes more rules.
You’ll be on P1 for at least 12 months, and during this time, you have to:
- Keep your BAC at zero (no alcohol, not even a sip)
- Stick to a maximum of 90 km/h
- Not use your phone at all, even with a phone mount
- Drive with only one peer passenger aged 16 to 21, unless they’re your sibling, step-sibling, spouse, or domestic partner
If you’re wondering, can P platers use phone mounts to navigate? Nope. Not even for maps. You’ll need a passenger to help or plan your route beforehand.
Another hot topic: can P platers listen to music? Yes, but only if you’re not touching your phone or controls to do it. So, if the music’s already playing through the car stereo when you start the car, that’s okay. But fiddling with playlists mid-drive? That’s a no-go.
Now let’s talk cars. A lot of new drivers want to know:
Can P platers drive V8? Can P platers drive turbo?
Generally, no. P1 and P2 drivers in Victoria cannot drive high-powered vehicles with a power-to-weight ratio above 130kW per tonne or those with turbo or supercharged engines. There are some exemptions for work or special cases, but you’ll need to apply through VicRoads.
And if you’re towing? That’s off-limits too, unless it’s part of your job and your boss asks, or a full licence holder is supervising.
P2 Licence (Green P Plates) – The Next Step
After holding your red Ps for 12 months (and not losing your licence), you’ll graduate to green P plates (P2). You’ll be on these for 2 years before you can apply for a full licence.
P2 drivers still have to follow strict rules:
- Zero alcohol; BAC must be 0.00
- No phone use while driving, including Apple CarPlay and mounts
- Can’t drive high-powered vehicles (same restrictions as P1)
- Speed limit is up to 100 km/h where allowed
If you’re under 21, the peer passenger rule still applies for the first year on green Ps, only one passenger aged 16–22 is allowed.
Towing is fine on green Ps. So if you’ve got a trailer or small boat, you’re good to go.
Mobile Phone and Technology Rules
Here’s where it gets strict. In Victoria, mobile phone detection cameras are now a thing. They automatically snap photos if you’re caught touching or even looking at your phone while driving. And yes, that includes Apple CarPlay if you’re using it by touching the screen or buttons.
So to answer some FAQs:
- Can P platers use Apple CarPlay Vic? Not legally—unless it’s entirely voice-operated and you don’t touch a thing.
- Can P platers use phone mount? No—not for anything. Even a mounted phone is off-limits unless you’re a full licence holder.
Learners and P drivers must avoid all mobile use while driving. It’s that simple.
READ MORE: The Truth About Drink Driving Limits: How Long After Drinking Can You Safely Drive?
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Well, apart from risking your safety—and others on the road—breaking L or P licence conditions can result in:
- Fines
- Licence suspension or cancellation
- Extended time on your current licence stage
- Demerit points
Not worth the risk, right?
Stick to the rules. Drive safely. Keep that licence clean.
Conclusion
Driving with your Ls or Ps is a big deal. It’s your first taste of freedom behind the wheel. But that freedom comes with a list of do’s and don’ts and every single one exists for a reason.
Stick to the rules, stay alert, and respect the road. That way, you’ll not only keep your licence, you’ll also build safe habits that’ll last a lifetime.
And if you’re ever unsure about what you can or can’t do? Always double-check with VicRoads. It’s better to be safe than sorry.