International driving permits in Victoria

International Driving Permits (IDP's) are recommended when you intend driving overseas.

In Australia, the Government appointed the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) as the only authority to issue permits. In Victoria, the RACV, as a constituent member of the AAA, is authorised to issue IDP's through its RACV shops (external website).

An IDP is a widely recognised document and is useful for photo identification purposes. You may also need one to rent a car overseas.

Using an International Driving Permit in Victoria
An international driving permit represents a translation of an overseas driver licence. It has no validity on its own and must accompany a current overseas driver licence issued from your home licensing authority overseas.
An international driving permit is only valid if it:

• complies with the UN convention for International Driving Permits, and
• is issued by the country the overseas driver licence is issued in; and
• is accompanied by a current overseas driver licence from the same country the permit was issued in.

Driving test in Vicroads

Pre-drive check
You must be able to start the engine, know where the controls listed below are and know how to use them. If any of these controls don’t work properly your test cannot continue.

• Indicators 
• Wiper/washer controls 
• Horn 
• Headlights (high and low beam) 
• Hazard lights 
• Demister 
• Handbrake
• Brake light

During the test you must keep your vehicle’s headlights on low beam, turn off any speed warning devices and turn off the cruise control.


First part – basic driving ability
The first part is designed to assess your safety as a driver in less challenging conditions. You will spend about ten minutes driving then stop the car while the licence test officer calculates your score. If you do anything unsafe, the drive test will be terminated and you will fail. Read more about how your driving is assessed.
The testing officer will give you simple, clear instructions during the test (eg. at the next street, turn right). You must follow their instructions and show that you can drive safely and efficiently. If you’re unsure of an instruction, ask for it to be repeated.
The first part may include:

• starting and stopping the car
• left and right at intersections
• changing lanes
• reverse parking
• doing a three point-turn.

Talk to your driving instructor or supervising driver if you’re unsure about how to do these.


Second part – driving on busier roadsIf you pass the first part you will progress to the second part. The second part is conducted in busier traffic. It is designed to assess your ability to safely execute normal, day-to-day driving tasks.  It will take about 20 minutes to complete.
The testing officer will give you simple, clear instructions during the test (eg. at the next street, turn right). You must follow their instructions and show that you can drive safely and efficiently. If you’re unsure of an instruction, ask for it to be repeated.
Part two may include:

• Driving in busy traffic 
• Changing lanes
• Merging with other traffic
• Driving on straight and curved roads.

If you do anything unsafe, the drive test will be stopped and you will fail. Read more about how your driving is assessed.


Feedback about your results The licence testing officer will give you feedback whether you pass or fail. You will be told if there are areas of your driving that need improvement.
If you fail, this feedback could help you in your next attempt. If you didn’t do well on one or two aspects of the test, you will know which areas to focus on and practice before your next attempt.  If you pass, this feedback will help you to become a safer driver.
Causes of failing could include:

• Creating a dangerous situation
• making serious errors during the test
• showing a pattern of risky behaviour.

Feedback like this suggests that you need more practice. People develop safe driving skills at different rates. Some learners need more practice than others before they are ready for the test.

How does SmartRoads work

What is SmartRoads?
SmartRoads is an approach that manages competing interests for limited road space by giving priority use of the road to different transport modes at particular times of the day.

All road users will continue to have access to all roads. However, certain routes will be managed to work better for cars while others will be managed for public transport, cyclists and pedestrians.

SmartRoads ensures that decisions about the operation of the road network support land use and transport planning and better consider the effects on the surrounding community, Victoria’s key activity centres and the environment.
SmartRoads uses a set of guiding principles to establish the priority use of roads by transport mode, time, and place of activity. These priority movements are then assigned to arterial roads across the network forming SmartRoads Network Operating Plan.

Under SmartRoads:

• Pedestrians will be encouraged by facilitating good pedestrian access into and within activity centres in periods of high demand.
• Trams and buses are given priority on key public transport routes that link activity centres during morning and afternoon peak periods. 
• Cars will be encouraged to use alternative routes around activity centres to reduce the level of ‘through’ traffic. 
• Bicycles will be encouraged through further developing the bicycle network. 
• While trucks will have full access to the arterial road network, they will be given priority on important transport routes that link freight hubs and at times that reduce conflict with other transport modes.

Your learner permit card or original evidence of identity documents

Category A documentsOne of the following documents must be current or expired by no more than two years:

• Australian photo drivers licence or permit photo card
• Victorian Marine licence photo card 
• Victorian Firearm licence photo card
• Victorian Security Guard/Crowd Controller photo card 
• Australian passport 
• An overseas passport. (If expired by no more than two years it is acceptable if accompanied by a current Australian visa (e.g. permanent residency or a temporary visa)  
• document of identity issued by the Passport Office (usually issued to travellers to Norfolk Island)
• Australian police force officer photo identity card 
• Consular photo identity card issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
• Full Australian birth certificate or change of name registration issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. (Note: Birth extracts and Commemorative birth certificates are not accepted)
• Australian naturalisation or citizenship certificate, or a Document for Travel to Australia or a Visa Evidence Card or after 1/04/2013 an ImmiCard, issued by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship or the Passport Office (read note 1)
• NSW Photo Card (issued by NSW RMS after 14 December 2008)
• Birth card (issued by NSW RTA (now RMS) prior to August 2008)
• Current photo image held by VicRoads regardless of date the photo was captured, provided the identity has previously been confirmed.
• A Community Detention Letter of Introduction issued by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship or the Passport Office is sufficient proof for both residence and identity.
• Resolution of Status (RoS) visa (previously known as Temporary Protection Visa (TPV)/Temporary Humanitarian Visa (THV)

Category B documentsOne of these documents:

• state or federal government employee photo ID card
• Medicare card
• Department of Veteran's Affairs card
• Pensioner Concession card
• current entitlement card issued by the Commonwealth
• student identity card
• any Australian or overseas credit card or account card from a bank, building society or credit union
• Working with Children Check card
• Australian Proof of Age card
• Australian Keypass card
• Australian Defence Force photo identity card (excluding civilian staff).

new driving course for young drivers

Young drivers will be offered the chance to learn more about road safety and reduce their logbook driving hours under a raft of changes by the NSW Government covering Learner licences.
Learners who take part in a new Safer Drivers Course and also have professional lessons will be able to reduce their compulsory supervised driving hours from 120 to 80.
Learners will also be allowed, from 1 July 2013, to travel up to 90km/h instead of 80km/h, giving them more supervised driving experience on higher speed roads in preparation for their graduation to P-Plates.
This follows a recommendation by the Auditor General to review learner speed limits.
Roads Minister Duncan Gay said the Safer Drivers Course, which will become available to Learners from July, will involve both theoretical and practical coaching.
“It also teaches learner drivers about gauging road conditions, seeing issues that could affect them and making safe decisions,” he said.
“This is a first step in rewarding the state’s younger drivers for learning safer behaviour behind the wheel.
“Young drivers are tragically over-represented in the NSW road toll and we want to ensure they are all given the opportunity to learn about road safety while they are still learning the basics of driving.”
Mr Gay said the course would be gradually rolled out based on community uptake and the availability of service providers.
“We’ve carried out market research with parents and learner drivers who believe the course will benefit them,” he said.
“They have told us it tackles the very aspects beginners face when they first start driving.
“The course deals with different road conditions, understanding factors beyond a driver’s control and also helps identify risks on the road.
“We recommend that learners enrol in the course when they have 50 hours completed in their logbook. By that stage they will have basic driving skills and will understand and appreciate the lessons they will be taught.
“This is a different approach to conventional driver training which focuses more on the mechanics of driving and road rules.”
A board of road safety experts including representatives from Centre for Road Safety, Roads and Maritime Services, NSW Police, road safety researchers and education specialists developed the course.
The course has also been supported by an advisory panel which included industry and community representatives including NRMA, driver trainer associations and community based road safety education providers.
“The course will help those young drivers who struggle to log 120 hours behind the wheel while on their L-plates while at the same time addressing safety issues they will face when they first drive solo,” the Minister said.
The cost of the course will be capped at an affordable price for each participant and any additional cost of delivering the course will be covered by the Community Road Safety Fund, which has been established to ensure infringement revenue directly finances road safety initiatives.
The board identified options to help young drivers from remote, lower socio-economic and Aboriginal communities meet the requirements to qualify for their P-plates.
Work on these options is underway. A pilot of a restricted provisional driver’s licence for young people in three remote NSW communities west of the Newell Highway will also begin in July.
Under 25-year-olds in those remote areas will be able to obtain a provisional drivers licence, only for the purpose of driving to work, education and medical appointments. They can only be given the restricted licence if they have passed the driving test and completed at least 50 supervised driving hours.

What the Safer Drivers Course involves

The Course will help you understand more about speed management, gap selection, hazard awareness and safe following distances and prepare you for when you drive unsupervised on your Ps.
You will also receive 20 hours of log book credit once you complete the Course.
To be able to attend a Course you must be on your Ls, completed 50 log book driving hours and be under 25.
This is 50 actual hours of on-road driving and does not include the hours that can be accrued through (3 for 1) structured professional instruction.
The Safer Drivers Course involves two modules:

1. A three-hour group discussion with other L platers for you to learn how to manage risks on the road.
2. A two-hour in-vehicle coaching session with a coach and another learner so you can learn a range of practical safe driving behaviours.

You don’t have to do both of these sessions in one day, however it is recommended you complete both sessions within one month.

Gaining credits on log book hours explained

With all the different ways you can make up log book hour credits, it is not hard to get information overload.
Before you can take a Driving Test, you need to record 120 log book hours. Here’s a break down on the different ways you can earn credits towards your 120 log book hours:

• You can get extra credit for driving lessons with a professional instructor.  For every hour of professional driving lessons you do, you’ll receive a bonus two hours credit. So a one-hour lesson counts for a total of three hours credit in your log book.  This is capped at a total of 10 private lesson hours (30 log book hour credits).
  
• Doing the Safer Drivers Course can get you extra credit too. Once you’ve completed 50 log book hours, you can choose to complete the Safer Drivers Course – this will give you 20 log book hour credits.
  

Holding yourdriving licence after you have turned 75

If you are a Queensland driver licence holder 75 years of age or older, you must only drive while carrying, and driving in accordance with a current Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver form (F3712). This is mandatory regardless of whether or not you have a medical condition.
If your doctor has recommended conditions for you when driving, your medical certificate must state those conditions. You must abide by these conditions when driving.
Fines apply for driving outside the conditions of your driving licence.

How long does my medical certificate last?

How long your medical certificate lasts depends on whether you have a medical condition, and how often that condition requires monitoring.
This is a decision that only your doctor can make. A medical certificate may be issued for a few months or for up to five years.
You will still be eligible to apply for a driver licence that lasts for up to five years, regardless of how long your medical certificate is issued for. However, you must ensure you only drive while carrying, and in accordance with a current medical certificate.
Fines apply for driving without holding a current medical certificate and driving outside the conditions of your licence.

Will I be reminded to get a medical certificate?

If you are turning 75 years of age and hold a current licence, you may receive a letter from the department approximately six weeks before your 75^th birthday advising you of the need to hold, and carry, a current medical certificate if you wish to continue driving.
When details of your medical certificate are recorded by the department, a reminder is generally forwarded approximately six weeks before the certificate’s expiry date.
However, the reminder is sent as a courtesy and should not be the only source relied upon as a reminder to obtain a new medical certificate.
The review/expiry date should be clearly documented on the medical certificate carried by you while driving.

Eligibility to qualify for a Victorian driver licence

The requirement to change your overseas driver licence to a Victorian driver licence depends on whether your stay in Victoria is temporary or permanent.
If you are in Victoria on a temporary visa, you can drive on your overseas driver licence for as long as it is current providing it is in English or accompanied by an English translation or International Driving Permit. There is no requirement to get a Victorian driver licence.
If you have entered Victoria on a permanent visa issued under the Migration Act 1958, you may drive on your overseas driver licence for:

• six months from the date you first entered Australia if the permanent visa was issued before you entered Australia; or,
• six months from the date when the permanent visa was issued to you if the permanent visa was issued to you whilst in Australia.

If you want to continue driving in Victoria after this time you must change your overseas licence to a Victorian driver licence.

New Zealand residents who hold a current licence are treated as interstate drivers.

Eligibility to qualify for a Victorian licenceVictorian full driver licenceTo obtain a Victorian full driver licence you must:

• be 21 years of age or older; and
• hold an overseas full driver licence; or
• have held an overseas probationary driver licence for at least three years from your 18th birthday (you must provide evidence).

Your overseas driver licence must be current or not expired by more than five years. Any period where you have been suspended or disqualified from driving is excluded when calculating the period of time you have held a licence.
Victorian probationary driver licenceTo obtain a Victorian probationary driver licence you must be at least 18 years of age. No exemptions apply.
An appropriate probationary period (P1 or P2) will apply, depending on your age and the amount of time your overseas driver licence has been held (you must provide evidence). Any period where you have been suspended of disqualified from driving is excluded when calculating the period of time you have held a licence.
You will be issued with a P1 probationary driver licence if you are under 21 years of age and have held an overseas driver licence for less than 12 months from your 18th birthday.

You will be issued with a P2 driver licence if you:
• are under 21 years of age and have held a driver licence for more than 12 months; or
• are 21 years of age or older and have held a driver licence for less than three years.

Victorian learner permit
You must be at least 16 years of age to obtain a Victorian learner permit (at least 18 years for a motorcycle). No age exemptions apply.

New driving Instructors

Overview of requirements

To become a driving instructor you must have completed all of the following requirements:

1. Documents and checks
2. Tests
3. Letter of eligibility
4. Instructor training course
5. Regulator Final Assessment

Requirements in detail

Documents and checks

• Driving instructor application (form 239).
• Pass a medical check (form 239).
• Pass Police and criminal checks; (forms 1183 & 1184 office use only).
• Two specimen signatures.
• Four passport size photographs.

Theory test

• Pass an extended driver knowledge test on road rules (90 questions).

Practical test

• Pass a Driving Test with a 95 per cent pass. The driving test must be passed before you will be issued with a letter of eligibility. If the driving test is passed in an automatic vehicle the Driving Instructor licence will have a condition that allows the instructor to only teach in automatic vehicles.
• A Motorcycle Operator Skill Test (MOST) with a 100 per cent pass.

Letter of eligibility
After all the above documents, checks, theory test and practical test have been completed Roads and Maritime Services will issue you a letter of eligibility. You cannot enrol in an instructor-training course unless you hold a current letter of eligibility.
Instructor-training course
The instructor training standards are nationally agreed and are included in the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).
Car driving instructors must pass the Certificate IV in Transport and Logistics (Road Transport - Car Driving Instruction) TLI41210.
Heavy vehicle driving instructors must pass the Certificate IV in Transport and Logistics (Road Transport - Heavy Vehicle Driving Instruction) TLI41310. HVDI courses equivalent to the Certificate IV in Driving Instruction NSW 91000 will continue to be accepted until 31 December 2009.
Motorcycle riding instructors must pass Roads and Maritime Services Pre-learner rider-training course as a student prior to commencing the instructor training with an approved course provider.
Generally most new driving instructors will take at least six months to complete the required qualifications.

Structured driving lessons

Learner drivers who complete a one hour structured driving lesson with a fully licensed driving instructor can record three hours driving experience in their Learner driver log book.
A maximum of 10 hours of lessons will be accepted and recorded as 30 hours in the Learner driver log book.
In addition, learner drivers who are aged 25 and over will no longer be required to present a Learner driver log book prior to attempting the driving test.

Note: These changes do not mean driving lessons are compulsory or that you should stop having lessons after reaching the 10 hours of training.

Structured lessons

A fully licensed driving instructor must develop each structured lesson in conjunction with the supervising driver and their learner driver using the Driving instructor structured lesson planner.
Driving instructors are required to keep a copy of each lesson plan completed in the Driving instructor structured lesson planner for auditing purposes. This is in order to ensure that learner drivers are receiving high quality structured lessons tailored to the needs of each learner driver.
Each lesson must aim to develop and enhance the learner driver’s practical application of low risk driving principles, as outlined in the Learner driver log book.
The Structured lesson record keeper is a summary of the structured lessons conducted on road by a fully licensed driving instructor.
Structured lesson record keeper inserts are available from Roads and Maritime Services Motor Registries, Roads and Maritime Services Contact Centres or you can download a copy by accessing the link at the bottom of this page.
This insert must be attached to the Declaration of Completion, on page 111 of the Learner driver log book.
Structured driving lessons are to be recorded on the Structured lesson record keeper in order to be recognised under this new scheme. In addition any lessons recorded in the Learner driver log book prior to 19 December 2009 can be transferred from the log book to the insert.
A Supplementary Declaration is included on the insert and must be signed by a supervising driver for the insert to be recognised under this new scheme.
Lessons conducted at night (between sunset and sunrise) count for only one hour of night driving towards the required 20 hours, with two hours to be added to day driving hours in the log book.

Road rules test

You may need to pass a written road rules test before you:

• get a learner licence
• upgrade your licence to a higher class
• apply to transfer your foreign driver licence to Queensland.

About the written road rules test

• You need to go to a customer service centre to take the test.
• You must complete an application form and provide evidence of identity.
• You can only take one written road rules test each day.
• Every time you take the test you must pay the fee. 
• Each test question will have a number of possible answers. You must choose the correct answer.
• You should allow yourself at least 30 minutes to take the test.
• Once you pass the test, your driving test result is valid for five years.

Prepare for your road rules test

Prepare for your road rules test by completing our practice road rules test. Practice test questions can also be found in Your Keys to Driving in Queensland.
You can find all of the Queensland Road Rules in the Transport Operations (Road Use Management—Road Rules) Regulation 2009. You can buy a hard copy of this regulation from the Queensland Government Bookshop.

Class C (car) general road rules test 

The general road rules test has 30 questions that will test your knowledge of the road rules. To pass the test, you must correctly answer:

• 9 out of 10 questions in the first section (which are all about giving way), and
• 18 of the 20 questions in the second section (which relate to road rules and driver licence requirements).

Class RE or R (motorbike) road rules test

The motorbike road rules test has 5 questions about road rules for motorbikes. To pass, you must correctly answer 4 out of the 5 questions.
If you already hold a Queensland class RE licence, and you want to upgrade to a class R, you will not need to pass another motorbike road rules test.

Class LR, MR, HR, HC or MC (heavy vehicle) road rules test

The heavy vehicle road rules test has 10 questions about road rules for heavy vehicles. To pass, you must correctly answer 8 out of the 10 questions.
If you already hold a class LR, MR, HR or HC (heavy vehicle) licence, and you want to upgrade to a higher class, you will not need to pass another heavy vehicle road rules test.

Learning to drive

Step 1 – before you get behind the wheel

Make sure you:

• have your learner licence with you
• review your road rules knowledge.

Who should I drive with?

You must only drive or ride while supervised by a person who holds and has held a current open licence for the class of vehicle you are learning to drive for at least 1 year.
If you are under 25 and learning to drive a car, make sure you record your driving experience in your learner logbook.

Step 2 – hitting the road

When learning to drive or ride, you must:

• clearly display L-plates at the front and rear of the vehicle (rear only for motorbikes)
• carry your learner licence with you and show it to a police officer when asked to do so
• obey any conditions stated on your learner licence
• not drive under the influence of illegal or prescription drugs
• not use a mobile phone. Passengers and supervisors are also restricted from using a mobile phone in loudspeaker mode while the car is being driven
• obey the zero alcohol limit (0.00).

Safe driving tips

• Familiarise yourself with the basic controls. Make sure you have passed the checklist for car controls.
• Take the time to adjust to different vehicles – some may have power steering, different brakes or mirrors.
• Avoid getting behind the wheel when your mind is not on the driving task.
• If you become tired while driving or riding, stop for a break.
• Try not to turn the radio on as it may distract you and your supervisor.
• Always allow extra time for travelling so you don't have to rush.
• Keep left unless overtaking.
• Remember to be considerate of other road users and how your driving or riding affects them.

The RACQ has developed maps for learner drivers* to ensure they gain a range of experience while learning to drive. By following the routes on these maps you will practice different skills and experience a variety of driving situations.

Step 3 – practice

More driving experience will improve your chance of passing your practical driving test on your first attempt.

Safe driving tips

• Weekly practice in a variety of situations is important in developing good driving skills.
• Make every effort to drive in different conditions – in the dry, in the wet, during peak hour, at dusk and at night.
• Always plan regular two-hourly breaks on a long journey.
• Drive at a speed appropriate for the conditions.
• Don't drive if you are tired or have been drinking.

The Road Rules Knowledge Test

The knowledge test comprises 35 randomly selected computer based objective questions.Some questions in the test such as those relating to drugs, alcohol, intersections and seatbelts, are mandatory questions and must be answered correctly.Applicants are required to answer at least 31 of the 35 questions correctly in the general ques tions area of the test to pass the assessment.

The driving test is conducted by Road Ready Centres located at Canberra Technology Park, 49 Phillip Avenue Watson (telephone 6162 5152,) and at 72 Townsend Street, Phillip (telephone 6282 8990). The Road Ready Centr es are open for business etwee n the hours of 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday,and 9.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m. on Saturdays. Applicants are not required to make a booking to undertake the test.

The knowledge test is only available in English, therefore,in special circumstances, an interpreter can be made available if the applicant is unable to read or understand English. In such cases, the applicant will need to contact the applicable Road Ready Centre to arrange for an interpreter to be present for the test. Licence applicants will find the ACT Road Rules in the ACT Road Rules Handbook, available at any ACT Canberra Connect Shopfront.

The Practical Driving Assessment

• After passing the knowledge test, applicants (where applicable) can make a booking for a practical driving assessment.
• The practical assessment comprises a 55-minute test, which includes all aspects of driving in city and suburban areas.
• Applicants have the option of undertaking the driver assessment with an ACT Government licence examiner or with an accredited driving instructor.

Government Assessment

• Applicants can book a driving assessment by attending at any ACT Canberra Connect Shopfront and pay the assessment fee.
• Where the assessment is undertaken with a Government licence examiner, the applicant must pass the assessment on the first attempt.
• If the applicant fails the assessment, the overseas licence is then classed as invalid for use in the ACT and the applicant is required to take out a learner licence and abide by the conditions of thatlicence.
• Upon passing the assessment, the applicant will be issued with a full driver licence

Proof of Identity and Residency:

• Full proof of identity and residency must be provided to any ACT Canberra Connect Shopfront before a driver licence will be issued.
• Some of the primary proof of identity documents are as follows:
• Australian Full Birth Certificate, Current Passport, Naturalisation or Citizenship Certificate,Immigration Papers.
• A complete list of documents for primary and secondary proof of identity and proof of residency can be found on pages 6 and 7
• of the ACT Road Rules Handbook

Renewing your licence

In Person
If the renewal notice indicates that you need a new image made and all the details on the renewal notice are correct, you need to take the notice to a Licence Photo Point* or a VicRoads Customer Service Centre and:

• provide your existing licence as evidence of identity. If your licence is unavailable, you must provide other documentation to prove your identity (see below)
• pay the licence fee
• have a new digitalised image made.

* If you renew at a Licence Photo Point, a new image will be made, even if VicRoads holds a recent digitalised image on its database.
You can pay by cash, cheque, EFTPOS or credit card (Visa or Mastercard). However, if you are renewing your driving licence at an agency, please check with them ahead of time to see what payment methods they accept.

If you have a new digitalised image made at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre or at a photo point, you will receive your new licence in about a week.
By Bpay, telephone or mail
If the VicRoads held digitalised image of you is a recent image (the renewal notice will indicate this) and if all the details on your renewal notice are correct, you can renew your licence by Bpay, telephone or mail and you will receive your new licence within five to seven working days.
By BpayCall your banking provider and follow the prompts.

By TelephoneCall VicRoads on 1300 554 853  and follow the prompts. This service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Drivers under 75 years of ageA 10 year licence renewal is automatically issued. However, you can request a 3 year renewal to be issued by calling VicRoads on 13 11 71 or visiting a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.

Drivers 75 years of age or olderIf you are 75 years of age or older, VicRoads at its discretion, will only grant a licence for a maximum of three years. At the end of each three year period, the licence will be renewed for a further three years.

Fees
Refer to the Driver Licence and Learner Permit fees page for information on the following fees:

• 10 year licence
• 3 year licence.

There are no fee concessions available for driver licence fees. However, you may be eligible for a discount under the Driver Reward Scheme

Turning

The rules outlined below are an overview, please refer to the rule references for more details.

IndicatingThe signal must be given for long enough to warn others that you are about to change lanes or direction.  You must signal for at least five seconds when moving from a stationary position at the side of the road or from a median strip parking area.

Right turns
To make a right turn you must:

• approach the intersection as close to the left of the centre of the road as possible
• turn just right of the centre of the intersection.

Left turns
To make a left turn you must approach the intersection as close to the left side of the road as possible, but give way to bicycles when crossing into a bicycle lane.  Where there is a slip lane, you must turn using the slip lane. But look out for cyclists on your left who may be going straight ahead.

Multi lane turns
On some multi-lane roads, arrows painted on the road will show you if turns can be made from more than one lane.  If road markings indicate how a turn is to be made, you must make a turn as indicated by the road markings.

Exception to the turning rules
Trucks or vehicles over 7.5 metres long displaying a Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle sign may use more than one lane to turn.

U-turn
When making a U-turn you must give way to all other vehicles and pedestrians.  U-turns are permitted at intersections with lights unless there is a ‘no U-turn’ sign.

Hook turns
A hook turn is a right turn from the left lane.  If turning right at an intersection with traffic lights and a ‘Right Turn from Left Only’ hook turn sign, you must make a hook turn so as not to delay trams.  To do a hook turn you must:

1. approach and enter the intersection from the left lane and indicate that you are turning right
2. move forward to the far left side of the intersection, keeping clear of the pedestrian crossings
3. remain stopped until the traffic lights on the road you are turning into have changed to green, then turn right.

www.darshandrivingschool.com.au

Travel times and roadworks and alerts

VicTraffic
VicTraffic is Victoria's premium traffic website that uses an interactive map to display the exact location of the following:

• Emergency road closures and traffic alerts
• Major roadworks
• Events impacting roads
• Congestion information for Melbourne and some regional areas
• Freeway travel times
• Live traffic images.

Tow truck allocations
The VicTraffic website is available on desktop computers and is fully scalable for viewing on tablets and mobile phones.  It can also be downloaded as an iPhone and Android application.

Never before have Victorian's has such easy access to traffic information.  Now before you leave home you can check VicTraffic to find out what incidents and delays are affecting the network, as well as what roadworks and events are planned in the future.

Features include:

• Fully accessible on smartphones and web-enabled mobile phones
• Updated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• User-friendly Google Maps interface
• Option to limit view to a certain region or municipality
• Accurate point-to-point closure and incident information.
  

VicRoads is the official source of road information during emergencies. This includes communicating information about local roads impacted by flood or fire via the VicTraffic website. www.darshandrivingschool.com.au

Continue to VicTraffic

Travel information for road users

VicRoads provides road users with a variety of travel information to help make safe and efficient use of Victoria’s road system. Information available to road users includes:
Drive time signsThe Drive Time system developed by VicRoads provides road users with estimated travel times and traffic condition indicators while on route via roadside signs. Drive Time trip information gives drivers an estimated time in minutes of how long it will take them to reach various freeway exits. As well as providing estimated travel times, a colour-coded indicator advises whether traffic flow is light (green), medium (yellow), or heavy (red).
Real-time travel information
Traffic Communications Officers work closely with Traffic Management Centre (TMC) staff to provide detailed information about incidents, estimated travel times and delays/congestion spots to road users through various websites and the media.
When there is an incident on the road affecting the safety of road users or traffic flow, Traffic Communication Officers in the TMC alert media of the incident and update the VicRoads websites with detailed information on
traffic conditions, detours and delays. Real-time information about emergency road closures and traffic alerts is available on the VicRoads Road Closures and Traffic Alerts web application. Other information to help you plan your trip, including travel times and planned works, is available on the VicRoads Travel Times and Roadworks web application. This information can also be accessed by web-enabled mobile phones at mobiletraffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au and via an iPhone application called VicTraffic. You can also follow us on Twitter for real-time traffic alerts 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Live traffic
Road users also have access to over 40 live traffic cameras to assist them to pre-plan their journey. Live traffic images are available 24 hours a day and display the current conditions at a number of key intersections and freeways locations.

Roadworks and planned eventsInformation on roadworks and events that might affect traffic conditions on the network is published in a daily Roadworks and Planned Events bulletin on the VicRoads website. This bulletin includes VicRoads works and other relevant activities notified by Councils and service authorities. Special events that are likely to affect traffic such as street festivals, sporting events and fun runs may also be listed.
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Driving with locusts

Victoria is facing one of the biggest locust plagues in 75 years and locusts can be a road hazard.

The Department of Primary industries (DPI) website has detailed and useful information about the locust plague, including regular situation updates.

The DPI has published information about staying safe when driving through a swarm of locusts.

The information highlights how locusts can affect driving and what to do in those situations.

An important tip is that if you are having trouble seeing the road because of locusts, reduce your speed by slowing down gradually, and if necessary stop where it is safe to do so. www.darshandrivingschool.com.au

The decision about whether it is safe to continue driving

With improved health care people are living longer and more active lives. This is rewarding for the individual and provides a wealth of knowledge and experience for the community to draw on. Staying active and participating in community life is vital for your health and wellbeing. Access to transport is necessary to staying active. If you don’t drive, it can present real challenges, but it is possible to get around and stay mobile.

The decision about whether it is safe to continue drivingUnlike other states, Victoria’s licensing policy is based on a person’s fitness to drive. There is no retesting for licence renewal based on the age of a driver. People can drive to any age as long as it is safe for them to do so. The decision to reduce or stop driving is often made by the driver. This may be because driving is becoming difficult or stressful, or following advice from a family member, friend or doctor.

Drivers of any age can develop medical conditions that affect their ability to drive safely. These conditions must be reported to VicRoads. Doctors can advise on which conditions need to be reported. Victoria’s licensing system also relies on the community to contact VicRoads about drivers who are considered to be unsafe. In these cases medical reports are requested and driving retests may be conducted. This may result in the licence being suspended or cancelled.

Dealing with the decision
Discovering that you can no longer drive can lead to feelings of loss of freedom and independence. It may also be frustrating and difficult to imagine life without driving. What is important is that you don’t allow the quality of your life to suffer. Explore the full range of options available to you and plan for how you can continue to socialise, maintain hobbies and interests, pay bills and shop.

There may be more than one solution to your transport needs. You may need to use different options depending on where you are going and when you are travelling. Use the information on this page to help you plan your trip. Help and advice is also available from the organisations listed on this page. www.darshandrivingschool.com.au

You are ready to attempt the test

• You have at least 120 hours of on-road supervised driving experience in a variety of traffic, road, and driving conditions, including experience in the wet, on high-speed roads and at least 10 hours at night.
• You can perform day-to-day driving tasks safely on different types of roads, including busy roads, multilane roads, roads with different speed zones, and in a range of traffic conditions.
• You can perform day-to-day driving tasks safely without the assistance of your supervising driver or instructor. That is, you can drive independently and make your own safe driving decisions.

You consistently demonstrate the following safe driving behaviours while driving in different traffic conditions:

• Observation – you are aware of other road users and road conditions at all times, using head
  checks and mirrors as well as looking ahead of your car and observing behind your car when
  demonstrating low speed manoeuvres
• Signal use – you communicate your intentions to other road users by using your signals
  correctly
• Gap selection – you choose the first safe gap when moving into traffic
• Speed choice – you always drive under the speed limit but not too slowly – that is, you choose
  a safe, efficient speed depending on traffic and road conditions
• Following distance – you always leave a safe distance in front of your car
  Lateral position – you choose the safest lane to drive in, steer a smooth path, and always stay
  within your own lane
• Stop Position – you stop your car fully in the correct position when at Stop signs, traffic
  signals, and pedestrian crossings
• Control – you are in full control of the car at all times and can drive smoothly

You can perform the following actions safely and legally in a range of traffic conditions:

• Right and left turns at different types of intersections
• Lane changes to the left and the right
• Merging with other traffic
• Reverse parallel parking and a three point turn
• Driving along straight or curved roads in different traffic
  conditions

You can drive in different traffic and road conditions without committing any serious safety errors such as:

• Colliding with the kerb when driving
• Causing a near miss with other cars or road users
• Exceeding the speed limit at any time
• Causing other road users to avoid a collision by failing to signal, observe, or give way
• Driving through a Stop sign or red traffic light
• Stopping the car in an unsafe position
• Driving too slowly for the conditions
• Failing to look or signal
• Blocking a pedestrian crossing
• Allowing a wheel to mount the kerb when parking or leaving a parking space
• Failing to come to a complete stop, in the correct position, at a Stop sign

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serious errors Driving test

Collision  Crashing into another vehicle or road user (eg. pedestrian or bicyclist) will immediately end your test and you will fail.  Even a small collision is a sign that you need to develop more safety-related skills before driving on your own.

Mounting the kerbHitting or running into the kerb or footpath is a serious safety issue. It puts pedestrians and other road users at risk and is a sign that you do not have safe control of the car. This will immediately end your test and you will fail. This penalty is less severe if you hit the kerb gently while performing a reverse-park. This error is a potential safety problem. It suggests you need more practice with this manoeuvre, but it usually doesn't place anyone in immediate danger.

Speeding
Driving too fast for the conditions and exceeding the speed limit causes crashes. Speed related crashes are a big problem for young drivers. The speed limit is the maximum safe speed at which you should drive. If you exceed the speed limit by more than 5 km/h during your test drive the test will be stopped and you will fail. This is regarded as a serious error because it creates an unsafe situation.
It is also a serious error to exceed the speed limit by any amount. Exceeding the speed limit by even a small amount may result in a penalty.
If the traffic is very busy and moving at a speed slower than the speed limit, you should choose an appropriate speed to fit into the traffic flow.  However you may be penalised if you drive too slowly for the conditions during the test because you are meant to be driving in normal, day-to-day driving conditions.

Failing to Give Way, Look, or Signal
Other drivers should not have to avoid a collision because of something you have done while driving.  It is your responsibility to choose a safe gap when you are entering traffic, turning at an inter-section, changing lanes, or merging.
If you fail to give way to another road user and they have to avoid a collision with you, the test will be terminated and you will fail. This is a serious, safety-related error.
Entering traffic, turning, or changing lanes without looking or signalling is obviously dangerous. Even if there are no other cars around, this type of behaviour increases the risk of a collision. For this reason it is treated as a serious error and you may fail the test if you don't look or signal when required.

Stopping the Car
When you stop the car – either to park or at an intersection – you must stop in a safe position.  This means that your car should not be in a position where other road users have to change their behaviour to avoid you.
You will fail the test if other drivers or road users do have to avoid your car, and you may fail if you stop in a location where other drivers or road users might have to avoid you.

Stop Signs and Traffic Lights
It is not unusual for licence applicants to fail the on-road test because they go through a Stop sign or traffic light without stopping. This is very unsafe behaviour. You are required to STOP at a Stop sign or red traffic signal.
If you do not stop at a red traffic signal or red arrow that applies to you, the test will be terminated and you will fail. This is extremely risky behaviour.
If you drive through a Stop sign the test will be terminated and you will fail.
Some experienced drivers do the wrong thing by slowing down at a Stop sign to observe for hazards without actually stopping the wheels of the car completely.  This is illegal and may not be safe – you will be penalised if you do this in the test. You will have a Critical Error recorded and may end up failing the test even if there were no potential hazards nearby. If you create an unsafe situation by doing this, the test will be terminated and you will fail.  You must Stop at a Stop sign.

Any Other Unsafe Situations
The licence testing officer is able to terminate the test if you do anything that creates an unsafe situation. The licence testing officer is able to terminate the test to prevent an unsafe situation occurring. You are being assessed on your ability to drive safely so you, your passengers, and any other road users are not put at risk. If you do something that creates an unsafe situation, this is a sign that you are not ready to drive on your own.
If someone else does something that creates an unsafe situation, you will not be penalised as long as you detect the problem and react safely.

Any Other Illegal ActionsThere are many road rules and you are expected to know them all and obey them – during the driving test and whenever you are driving.
If you disobey a road rule but it doesn’t put you or other road users (or property) at risk, a Critical Error will be recorded and you may end up failing the test. So it pays to be careful about obeying the rules.

Australian road rules

There are many laws governing road users. However, the most important point is that you must drive with care and consideration of other road users. Driving rules you must comply with are provided in the Driver's Handbook.
Most driving offences are covered by the Road Traffic Act 1961 and in regulations made under this Act - such as the Australian Road Rules 1999.
Discover more about the rules and how they apply to different kinds of roads, vehicles and road users in the reader's guide.

Visitors to South Australia

Welcome. We want you to enjoy your stay, but more importantly we want you to stay safe.
If you intend to drive in South Australia - make sure you're driving legally and safely by following these tips:

1. Check driver's licence requirements for temporary visitors and new residents.
2. Remember that we drive on the left-hand side of the road in Australia. If you’re from a country where vehicles are driven on the right-hand side, it can feel strange when driving in Australia.
3. Take extra care when driving, cycling and walking in Australia.
4. Practise driving left by using the online hazard perception test provided on the My Licence website.
5. The default speed limit in urban areas is 50 kph unless otherwise sign posted. The speed limit on most Australian highways is 100 kph; only a few roads allow you to travel at a maximum speed of 110 kph. Police regularly conduct speed checks using speed cameras, radar and lasers along all types of roads.
6. Wearing a seatbelt is a life or death matter both for you and your passengers. Drivers must ensure that they and any passengers in the vehicle are wearing a seatbelt or child restraint.

Speed limits in South Australia

Speed is a key factor in crashes and road trauma. The default speed limits in Australia have been set in response to research findings that have revealed direct correlation between travelling at speed and the increased risk of crash and trauma. In acknowledging safer speed limits and travelling at appropriate speeds on South Australian roads, we are all contributing to making our roads safer for all road users.

Know the speed limits

Speed limits indicate the maximum vehicle speed that is permitted on that road. These default driving speed limits are applied in South Australia and across Australia. Any road with a speed limit different to the default limit is signposted accordingly.
25 km/h

• between the signs at a children’s crossing when the alternating lights are flashing
• when passing, in either direction, a school bus that has apparently stopped to pick up or set down passengers
• on a portion of road within a School Zone when a child is present
• (or as indicated) when passing road works with signs displayed.

40 km/h

• some built up areas (eg residential areas) have a speed limit of 40 km/h indicated by signs on all roads leading to that area
• on the approach to a ‘wombat’ pedestrian crossing indicated by signs
• when passing, in either direction, an emergency services vehicle(s) that is stationary and displaying red/blue flashing lights

50 km/h

• is the general default speed limit in a built-up area
• is the maximum speed limit on roads within a built up area unless signposted differently.

80 km/h is the speed limit on some country roads around Metropolitan Adelaide.
100 km/h

• is the maximum speed limit on roads outside a built-up area where no other speed limit is signposted. 
• is the speed limit on most rural roads in South Australia.

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Speed facts of car driving

Vehicle travel speeds affect both the risk of crash involvement and the severity of crashes, and subsequent injuries. Speed is a critical factor in every serious crash, and speeding was identified as a contributing factor in an estimated 36% of fatal crashes (2007-2011). Reductions in travel speed save lives and injuries. Reductions in the average travel speed across the network is the most effective and swift way to reduce road trauma and would produce significant and immediate road safety benefits.

Why is speeding a problem?

If we all do the right thing and drive within the speed limit, lives will be saved and serious injuries will be prevented. A reduction of 5 km/h in average travel speed would reduce rural casualty crashes by about 30% and urban crashes by about 25%.  This is a significant saving of lives and injuries for South Australians.

Stopping distance

A critical factor in the relationship between speed and crashes is stopping distance. There are two components to stopping distance:

1. The distance travelled by the vehicle during the time it takes for the driver to react; and
2. The distance travelled once the brakes have been applied.

The impact of speeding on crash risk

The risk of a casualty crash approximately doubles with each 5km/h increase in speed on a 60km/h speed limited road, or with each 10km/h increase in speed on 110km/h roads.
It is illegal to drive at any speed above the speed limit.
Vehicle travel speeds affect both the risk of crash involvement and the severity of crashes, and subsequent injuries.
Driving over the speed limit:

• increases your chances of being involved in a crash
• means you have less time to react to avoid a crash
• takes longer to stop the vehicle to avoid a crash
• increases the severity of injury in a crash.

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Drinking alcohol can affect your driving

• Slowing down your reaction time – this can be crucial in an emergency situation
• Dulling your thinking processes, making it difficult to multi-task – an essential skill reducing your attention span – not noticing other drivers and/ or vehicles
• Causing short-term side effects such as blurred vision and reduced hearing – reducing your ability to drive safely and identify driving hazards.

What is BAC?

BAC is a measurement of the amount of alcohol in your body, expressed as grams of alcohol per 100ml of blood. Hence, for fully licensed car drivers the legal limit of 0.05 BAC means 0.05gm alcohol per 100ml of blood. For special licence categories such as learner and probationary drivers, taxi, bus, train and heavy truck drivers, the legal limit is zero (0) BAC or 0.02 (which in practice means no alcohol at all).

A driver’s BAC is measured by a simple breath test procedure. If tested by the police, drivers must be below their allowable legal limit. A glass of champagne (11.5 per cent alcohol), or a 375ml stubby or can of full strength beer (4.9 per cent alcohol) are all 1.5 standard alcoholic drinks.

To keep under the 0.05 BAC limit, males can drink no more than two (2) standard alcoholic drinks in the first hour (10gm of alcohol in each) followed by one (1) standard alcoholic drink every hour after that. However, females can drink no more than one (1) standard alcoholic drink every hour.

Danger increases the more you drink

0.02 to 0.05 BAC – your ability to see or locate moving lights correctly is reduced, as is your ability to judge distances. Your tendency to take risks is increased, and your ability to respond to several stimuli is decreased.

At 0.05 BAC drivers are twice (2) as likely to have a crash as before they started drinking.

0.05 to 0.08 BAC – your ability to judge distances reduces further, sensitivity to red lights is impaired, reactions are slower, and concentration span is shorter.

At 0.08 BAC drivers are five (5) times more likely to have a crash than before they started drinking. At 0.08 to 0.12 BAC – “euphoria” sets in – you overestimate your abilities, which leads you to drive recklessly, your peripheral vision is impaired (resulting in accidents due to hitting vehicles while passing), and your perception of obstacles is impaired. Drivers are up to ten (10) times more likely to have a crash.

How does alcohol affect me?

Alcohol is a drug that slows down your body, both physically and mentally. Excessive drinking affects your judgment, memory and reaction time. It takes much longer for your body to expel alcohol than to absorb it, so you can drink a large quantity of alcohol in the evening and still have alcohol present in your body the next day, affecting your driving and other activities.

It’s important to note that these guidelines are general and a range of factors can influence an individual’s BAC, such as your body size, age, level of fitness, liver health, gender, medication, when you last ate and the type of food you ate.

Driving instructor authority conditions

Conditions:

1.If one or more of the following condition codes are endorsed on the Authority, the holder must comply with the corresponding condition specified below:

a) Condition code G – the driving instructor authority holder must wear corrective lenses to meet the visual acuity standard (Snellen code) of at least 6/9 in the better eye and 6/18 in the other eye.

b) Condition code A – the driving instructor authority holder must only teach a person to drive pursuant to the Authority in a vehicle with automatic transmission.

c) Condition code MED – the driving instructor authority holder must undergo an annual medical review and provide a medical report to the TSC on each anniversary of the date the Authority was granted.

2. The driving instructor authority holder must advise the TSC within 28 days of being charged with or being found guilty of a criminal offence, or of being
made subject to reporting obligations under Part 3 of the Sex Offenders Registration Act 2004 (Vic) or an extended supervision order under Part 2 of the Serious Sex Offenders Monitoring Act 2005 (Vic).

3. The driving instructor authority holder must hold a current Working with Children Check issued by the Department of Justice to instruct students under the
age of 18 on a regular basis.

4. The driving instructor authority holder must return their Authority and identity photograph to the TSC within seven days if their drivers licence is uspended,cancelled, surrendered or expired.

5. When teaching a person to drive pursuant to the Authority, the driving instructor authority holder must produce his or her Authority and identity photograph for inspection if requested to do so by a member of the police or an authorised person.

6. The driving instructor authority holder must notify the TSC of any change in the information provided by the driving instructor authority holder to the TSC in his or her application.

7. The driving instructor authority holder must notify the TSC of any change in the information provided by the holder to the registered medical practitioner
for the purposes of the medical practitioner issuing a certificate provided to the TSC under Regulation 6(1)(b)

8. The driving instructor authority holder must keep all records specified by the TSC. The driving instructor authority holder must produce all records for inspection on request by an authorised person and must allow the authorised person to make copies of those records.

For the purposes of this condition, the TSC specifies that the driving instructor authority holder is required to keep, and produce on request, the following
records:

a) The driving instructor authority holder’s drivers licence.

b) The driving instructor authority holder’s Authority.

c) The driving instructor authority holder’s identity photograph.

d) The driving instructor authority holder’s current Working with Children Check.

e) For each person the driving instructor authority holder teaches to drive pursuant to the Authority:

– the name of the person
– the number and expiry date of the learner permit held by the person
– the date and time of every lesson

Road to Solo Driving handbook

This handbook will help you study for your learner permit and licence tests. It contains important road safety and road law information that will prepare you for safe driving. You may also be interested in reading about the Drive Test.
Availability and costAvailable for purchase from the Victorian Government Bookshop, by calling the Victorian Government Bookshop on 1300 366 356, attending a VicRoads Customer Service Centre, selected newsagencies, some libraries and other retail outlets (cost can vary between retailers). Please refer to Licence publications and products for information on the Road to Solo Driving Handbook fee.
Latest versionThe latest version (PDF only) of the English edition of this handbook is dated December 2012. The latest hard copy edition of this handbook is dated September 2012 and includes an addendum notifying the current requirements for evidence of identity.
Languages availableThe Road to Solo Driving handbook is available for purchase and to view online in English, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Turkish and Vietnamese.
View the Road to Solo Driving handbook
To make downloading easier, the English, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Turkish and Vietnamese versions of the Road to Solo Driving handbook have each been split up into smaller sections.

Traffic Signals SCATS

SCATS ( S ydney C oordinated A daptive T raffic S ystem) is a sophisticated and dynamic intelligent transport system. SCATS controls more than 3,700 traffic lights across Victoria, including regional areas such as Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Traralgon.

The aim of traffic light coordination is to improve traffic flow and safety for road users. The system is able to manage traffic according to predetermined programs for each individual intersection according to the time of day or day of the week. SCATS can also adapt traffic light timings to manage unexpected conditions and minimise delays caused by events or incidents. TMC staff use SCATS to manually change traffic light cycles for sporting and social events to improve access and traffic flow around major venues.

SCATS is also used to assist with the smooth and reliable operation of the public transport network – in particular trams and buses. Where a tram has priority at an intersection, SCATS will identify when the tram approaches and ensure the traffic light cycle gives the tram priority through the intersection. Over 500 intersections in metropolitan Melbourne have tram priority set in SCATS. At some key intersections SCATS is also used to give buses priority so they can clear the intersection and not delay, or be delayed, by other traffic.

Why its dangerous to use a mobile phone while driving

Research shows that dialling and talking on a mobile phone while driving can lead to:

• Riskier decision making
  Deciding when it is safe to turn in traffic is a complex task. Using a mobile phone while driving affects judgement and concentration and you may fail to choose a safe gap. When making a decision to turn across oncoming traffic, you also tend not to consider the environmental conditions such as, when it is raining or the roads are slippery. If you don’t make safe turns you could crash.
• Slower reactions
  You generally react slower when using a mobile phone, particularly when you’re deep in conversation. You may take longer to respond to traffic signals or completely miss them.
• Slower and less controlled braking
  During a mobile phone call your brake reaction time is slower, and you brake with more force and less control which results in shorter stopping distances available between yourself and the car in front.
• Wandering out of your lane You’re more likely to wander out of your lane when you’re using a mobile phone, even on a straight road with little traffic.
• Not being alert to your surroundings
  When using a mobile phone, you tend to spend less time checking your mirrors and what’s going on around you. This affects your ability to monitor and negotiate traffic safely.

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vicroads driving instructors

When is an instructor licence required?

Driving Instructors are covered under the Driving Instructors Act 1992, and Driving Instructors Regulation 2003. The legislation requires any person who teaches another person to drive for money or reward to hold an Instructor’s licence.
Prerequisites for a driving instructor licence

A person is not eligible to be issued with a driving instructor licence unless the person:
Has reached the age of 21 years, and

• Is the holder of a driver licence* of the relevant class**, and
• Has, for a period of not less than 3 years during the period of 4 years before the date of the application, held a driver       licence1. of the relevant class2., and
• Has been authorised by the Authority to undertake, and has passed, a course in driving instruction approved by the Authority and conducted by an organisation approved by the Authority.

* A drivers licence means a licence, other than a learner licence, a provisional licence, a probationary licence or a restricted licence.
** The relevant class means the class of vehicles for which the instructor licence is applied for.
Restricted driving instructor licence

Restricted driving instructor licence

Restricted driving instructor licences are available for providers of post-licence instruction.

The restricted licence is issued with the condition, "Restricted licence, the licensee is not permitted to instruct people who hold a learner driver licence", clearly displayed on the front of the licence.

To be issued with a restricted licence applicants must:

• Meet all existing eligibility requirements of the Driving Instructor Act and Regulations (minimum age, hold licence tenure etc).
• Complete all existing application requirements (Driving Instructor DKT, Medical, police checks etc).
• Be issued with a letter of eligibiity, in accordance with all existing requirements.
• Obtain one of the following qualifications: TAA04 or TAE10 or Diploma in Education or equivalent higher qualification (as approved by RMS).
• Pass an assessment on the Driving Instructor Act and Regulations assessed by RMS.
• Restricted licences are only available for car and motorcycle Driving Instructor licences. They are not available for any heavy vehicle driving instructor licences.

    Applicants for restricted licences are exempt from:

• TLI41207 Certificate IV in Driving Instruction.
• Impart Knowledge Test.

Driving Licence Holders Health and medicals

Do I need a medical test?

Certain licensees must submit a satisfactory medical report before their licence can be renewed or maintained.  Holders of a Mobility Parking Scheme (MPS) card may be required to provide a medical report when they apply for the issue, reissue, renewal or replacement of their licence if Roads and Maritime Services has not been advised of any medical condition on the licence. See Fitness to drive and MPS permits for more details.

Licence class C, LR, MR, HR, HC and Rider.

• Medical required at age 75 then annually.

Licence class MC.

• Medical required at age 21 then every 10 years.
• Medical required at age 40 then every 5 years.     
• Medical required at age 60 then every 2 years.
• Medical required at age 70 then annually.

All Licence Holders

The law requires the holder of a driver licence to notify, as soon as practicable, Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) of any long term injury or illness that may impair his or her ability to drive safely. RMS must be satisfied that all licence holders are medically fit to drive.  The medical standards for drivers are set by the National Transport Commission and AUSTROADS, and are set out in 'Assessing Fitness to Drive' (available from the AUSTROADS website). ‘Assessing Fitness to Drive’ was recently revised in 2012.  Frequently Asked Questions about the revision in 2012 can be found here.

A licence holder can be directed to have regular medical examinations because of a medical condition or because of advanced age. Some drivers must also have an annual driving test.

The rules apply to all licence holders, including people who have three or five year licences.

Medical Examinations

If you are required to have a medical examination, RMS will send you a letter approximately eight weeks before you are due for a medical examination. On the back of the letter is a medical report form to be completed by your doctor, indicating whether you are medically fit to drive.

You ask your doctor whether an appointment is required to have the form completed. If your doctor considers you medically fit to drive and hands the completed report to you, return it to a motor registry.

If you would prefer to restrict your driving, for instance, to certain times of the day or to within an area where you live, you should discuss it with your doctor at the time of your compulsory medical test.

If your doctor considers you medically unfit to drive or wants to refer your case to a second doctor, he or she will send the medical report directly to RMS. You will be notified of the decision about your licence by RMS soon after.

Note: Section G.13.1 of the Medicare Benefits Schedule states 'Medicare benefits be paid for the following categories of health screening: - age or health related medical examinations to obtain or renew a licence to drive a private motor vehicle'.

Disclosure of a medical condition for the first time

A customer who discloses to RMS for the first time that he or she suffers from diabetes, epilepsy, giddiness, blackouts, fainting or other sudden periods of unconsciousness, must provide a satisfactory medical report before he or she can receive or renew a licence.

A customer who discloses to RMS for the first time that he or she has monocular vision must provide a satisfactory eyesight report before he or she can receive or renew a licence.

Customers who have already declared these medical conditions to RMS can renew their licences provided that RMS medical review requirements have been met.

Customers with diabetes that is controlled by diet are no longer required to provide an initial medical report.

Customers who already hold a NSW driver licence can obtain a medical report form from any motor registry or by calling 13 22 13.

Driving Tests

If you need to pass a driving test as well as a medical examination it will be printed at the top of the letter. You can only take a driving test after a doctor has declared you medically fit to drive.

To avoid delays call 13 22 13 or go to your nearest motor registry to make an appointment as soon as possible.

RMS's A guide to the Driving Test is available for download or free from any motor registry. It tells you what is involved in a driving test and what you will be tested on.
Occupational Therapist Reviews

Drivers with certain health conditions may require a driving assessment by a suitably qualified occupational therapist before a licence will be issued or reissued.

Requirements to Become a Driving Instructor

A Driving Instructor is a person approved by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to teach another person to drive a motor vehicle (of the approved class) in exchange for fee, reward, salary, wages or other remuneration or consideration. Approval is valid for five (5) years, unless sooner cancelled/suspended or revoked.
To become a Driving Instructor in the NT you need to have held the relevant class of licence for a period of three (3) consecutive years immediately prior to application. You will also need to:

1. be certified as medically fit by a medical practitioner (in accordance with the Commercial Standards of the nationally agreed guidelines "Assessing Fitness to Drive");
2. pass a Police traffic and criminal history check, (the National Police Clearance and Complete Traffic History checks can be arranged through Safe NT or your local Police Station, clearly identifying that an employment check is required for the profession of a Driving Instructor);  and,
3. you must complete the required training course delivered by an Approved course provider (listed below are local NT providers and a link to interstate Accredited providers).

Driving Instructors are to comply with the Code of Practice for Driving Instructors in the NT.
There are currently two training courses (qualifications) that will allow you to become a driving instructor in the NT and these are:

• TLI41210 Certificate IV in Transport and Logistics (Road Transport – Car Driving Instruction)
• TLI41310 Certificate IV in Transport and Logistics (Road Transport – Heavy Vehicle Driving Instruction)

Only qualifications issued by an accredited course provider will be accepted for the issue of an NT Driving Instructor endorsement. Qualifications issued by non-accredited course providers will not be recognised as the course may not have been conducted to the standard required by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.

Safety barriers

In instances where a roadside hazard cannot be made safe, removed or relocated, it may be necessary to provide physical protection from the hazard. Safety barriers are available for a variety of applications and this section provides advice on selecting, installing and maintaining safety barriers.
The Australian Standard document "AS/NZS 3845:1999 Road Safety Barrier Systems" discusses various methods of roadside hazard protection and provides direction on the correct use of the different systems. The Standard has been the basis for a number of guidelines written by individual road authorities for use within their jurisdiction.
It should also be noted that the Austroads publication Safety Barriers (1987) is currently being reviewed and updated.
Decision to install a safety barrier
Safety barriers are a form of roadside hazard. When considering whether to install a safety barrier, it is important to remember that the barrier will present some danger to the occupants of errant vehicles, and especially to unprotected road users such as motorcyclists. A barrier should only be installed if collision with it will present less of an injury risk to vehicle users and occupants than would result from collision with the roadside hazard that is to be shielded by the barrier.
It is important to consider specifically the danger posed to motorcyclists by both the hazard and the intended safety barrier. As essentially unprotected road users, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to unforgiving roadside environments; any obstacle in the path of an errant motorcyclist has the potential to cause severe injury. If it is decided that a safety barrier is necessary at a site, attention should be paid to the design of the barrier to ensure that it poses as little risk as possible to colliding motorcyclists.
Barrier types
The following sections describe a number of roadside safety barriers and end-treatments. This list does not contain all available types of barrier, and the practitioner should be aware that manufacturers continually develop new or improved barrier designs. Accordingly, the information presented here refers to testing procedures, the results of which can be used to determine the suitability of proposed barriers. No barrier should be installed unless it has been shown to meet the applicable standards and can therefore be expected to perform satisfactorily.
Barrier types include rigid barriers, semi-rigid barriers and flexible barriers. Semi-rigid and flexible barriers are preferred as they generally cause less damage to vehicles during a crash, while a rigid barrier is suitable where space is limited and it is placed relatively close to the traffic lane (eg. narrow median).
Where a barrier is essential, the practitioner should bear in mind that barrier posts are the main cause of injury to motorcyclists. Other barrier attributes that are considered to be dangerous to motorcyclists (ATSB 2000) include upper and lower edges (particularly if jagged edges exist), protruding reflectors, low barrier mounting height (as motorcyclists can be thrown over the barrier) and rigid barriers.
Guards have been designed to reduce the severity of motorcycle collisions with barriers. These are available in a range of designs for various types of barrier.