Title: A Guide to Buying and Processing an Australian Driver’s License (Legally and Safely)

Whether you’re new to Australia or just moving between states, understanding how to get your driver’s license sorted is a big step toward independence. While the phrase “buy Australian drivers license” may bring up some sketchy search results, this guide focuses on how to legally obtain and process your license across the different states and territories of Australia.

Let’s break it down.

Getting a Driver’s License in Australia: State by State

Australia has different licensing authorities for each state and territory. While the overall process is similar learning, testing, probation. Australian drivers license

New South Wales (NSW) – Service NSW

In NSW, the process starts with the Learner Knowledge Test, followed by supervised driving, then the Hazard Perception Test, and finally the Driving Test to obtain your provisional license. NSW drivers license

Victoria (VIC) – VicRoads

In Victoria, new drivers go through the Graduated Licensing System. You’ll need to pass the Learner Permit Test, then clock 120 hours of supervised driving before taking your Drive Test. read more

Queensland (QLD) – Transport and Main Roads

Queenslanders follow a similar process: a written road rules test, a logbook with 100+ hours of supervised driving, and then the practical driving test. read more

Western Australia (WA) – Department of Transport

WA uses a six-stage licensing system, starting from the Learner’s Permit and ending with a full license. You’ll need to pass the Hazard Perception Test and the Practical Driving Assessment. Visit  Western Australia drivers license

South Australia (SA) – Service SA

In SA, you’ll begin with a learner’s permit, followed by 75 hours of supervised driving, a Vehicle On Road Test (VORT) or Competency-Based Training, and then progression to your P1 and P2 licenses. read more

Tasmania (TAS) – Transport Tasmania

Tasmania’s licensing system involves three stages: L1, L2, and P plates. After passing the learner test, you’ll need 80 hours of driving before taking the Practical Driving Assessment. Visit Tasmania drivers license

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) – Access Canberra

In the ACT, learner drivers go through the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBT&A) or Government Driving Assessment. read more

Northern Territory (NT) – MVR (Motor Vehicle Registry)

In the NT, things are slightly more flexible. After getting your learner permit, you need to hold it for at least 6 months, complete supervised hours, and then pass a practical driving test. read more

What About Overseas License Holders?

If you already have a driver’s license from another country, you might be able to transfer it depending on where it's from. Most states allow you to drive on an overseas license for up to three months before requiring a transfer. If your license is from a recognised country, you might not need to take a driving test at all.