A Guide to Driving in Australia

Australia is a very vast and diverse country. To explore it properly you will need to have your own set of wheels, which means that you need to have the correct licence and be aware of the different rules of driving in Australia.

This can vary from state to state, so we’ll break this down to make it easier for you to see which driving rules you need to follow when moving to Australia.

Can I Drive in Australia on a UK Driving Licence?

There is an allowance to be able to use an overseas driving licence when you first arrive in Australia. If you then intend to move to Australia on a permanent basis and hold a permanent visa, you’ll usually need to get a local licence within 3 months of your arrival into the country. When you are using your UK licence, you will also need to carry your passport and make sure that you have the correct insurance in place.

Some insurance may not cover you for driving on “unsealed roads” which is one without a hard, smooth surface. In Australia, this can cover anything from a forest track, which could be smooth but not deemed “hard” surface, to nearly impossible to travel on, outback dirt tracks. Some of these outback tracks are crossed by rivers and have many potholes. If you aren’t covered for unsealed roads, you will need to research your route before setting out on a trip.

As well as checking your route before setting out on a trip, always check that you have spare tyres, maps, food, water and fuel, as well as having GPS fitted to your vehicle if you are planning a trip. Always tell someone where you are going, and how long you are likely to be, and then let someone know when you have arrived safely.

How to Get an Australian Driver’s Licence

If you’re moving to Australia and plan to drive long-term, you’ll need to convert your overseas licence to an Australian driver’s licence after a few months, depending on the state or territory. The process is generally straightforward, especially for UK licence holders. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Check State-Specific Requirements
   The timeframe for converting your licence varies by state (usually between 3 to 6 months). Ensure you know the deadline in your state of residence and any particular requirements that may apply. UK licence holders often don’t need to take additional tests unless under 25 or if their licence has expired.
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents
   When applying for an Australian licence, you’ll typically need:
   • Your current UK licence (valid or expired within 5 years)
   • Proof of identity (such as a passport)
   • Proof of residency in Australia (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.)
   • A completed application form (available from the relevant state transport authority website)
3. Visit a Licensing Centre
   You’ll need to apply in person at a state licensing centre. Depending on the state, this may be a Transport and Main Roads office, Service Centre, or a Driver and Vehicle Services Centre.
4. Tests and Exemptions
   In most states, if you’re over 25 and hold a valid UK licence, you’re exempt from driving and theory tests. Younger drivers, or those with an expired licence, may need to pass road rules tests, hazard perception tests, and sometimes a practical driving exam.
5. Pay the Licence Fee
   The cost of obtaining an Australian driver’s licence varies by state, but fees usually range from AU$20 to AU$50, depending on the type of licence and the length of its validity.
6. Eye Test
   You may need to pass an eye test, especially if your UK licence notes that you require corrective lenses. Be sure to bring your glasses or contact lenses if applicable.

Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your Australian driver’s licence. With it, you can legally drive across Australia and use it as a form of identification within the country.

Driving in Australia: What You Need to Know by State

If you’re moving to Australia and plan to drive, your UK licence is typically valid for a few months depending on the state, after which you’ll need to convert it to an Australian licence. Here’s a brief overview:

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): You must obtain an ACT licence within 6 months of residency. If you’re over 25 with a valid UK licence, no tests are required. Under 25s must complete tests, including a Pre-Learner course and practical driving test.
• New South Wales (NSW): You can drive for up to 3 months on your UK licence. To avoid taking tests, you need to be over 25 and have a valid UK licence or one that expired within the last 5 years.
• Northern Territory (NT): Drive on your UK licence for up to 3 months, and then transfer it by applying at a Motor Vehicle Registry office. No tests are required.
• Queensland: You can drive with a valid UK licence for 3 months before needing a Queensland licence. Normally, no tests are required unless special circumstances apply.
• South Australia: You have 90 days to drive on your UK licence before needing a South Australian licence. If under 19, you may need a provisional licence or learner’s permit.
• Tasmania: Drive for up to 6 months on a UK licence. If converting to a Tasmanian licence, no tests are needed unless your UK licence has expired.
• Victoria: You can drive for 6 months on a UK licence. As an approved country, the UK doesn’t require you to pass any tests when converting your licence.
• Western Australia (WA): Drive on your UK licence for 3 months before needing to convert to a WA licence, which doesn’t require any tests unless you need an eyesight check.

Driving Interstate in Australia
Once you have an Australian licence, you can drive interstate. However, be aware of some local variations, such as differing school zone speed limits or mobile phone use while driving. Always check specific state regulations before driving across state lines.

For more information on driving rules for the various states in Australia, as well as rules on how to obtain a drivers licence in these states, please see the relevant government website for your region below:

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
• New South Wales (NSW)
• Northern Territory (NT)
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

Hit The Road!

Driving in Australia offers an amazing opportunity to explore this vast and diverse country. By understanding the licensing requirements and unique road rules in each state, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your Australian driving adventure. So, grab your licence, familiarise yourself with the local regulations, and get ready to experience the freedom and excitement of the open road in Australia!

Safe travels!