To get a car licence in Victoria you have to pass more than one test. First of all, you need to get an “L” licence (Learner Permit). This is very easy because all you have to do is to read a book called “The Road to Solo Driving”. This book will teach you about traffic laws in Australia. You can buy this book at any VicRoads office or most newsagents’. The book is available in 20 major languages. There are 25 questions in the test and you need to get 78% to pass.
When you get your “P” licence (Probationary Licence), you will be allowed to drive a car alone on the road. After getting a “P” licence, it will be easy for you to get your full licence in 3 to 4 years. You must be 18 years of age or over to be able to apply for a “P” licence but you need to pass two tests before you get it. One test is done on a computer and it is called a Hazard Perception Test. The other test is a driving test where you drive a car on the road and someone from VicRoads will be in the car with you to see how well you can drive.
You can book an appointment for the computer test by visiting VicRoads’ web site on the internet if you know how to use a computer. Book an appointment by phone on 13 11 71. You have to call during business hours (Mon-Fri 8.30 – 5 pm) or on Saturday from 8.30 to 2 pm. You can also visit any VicRoads office and book your appointment there. You can pay in cash or use your bank card to book your appointment.
The computer test will cost you $30.50 and the driving test will cost $52.10. You can also book both appointments on the same day and pay only $67.30. You cannot use your concession card to pay less money for the tests.
You need to show your ID card. If you have a passport, a Medicare card, a student card or a bank statement, you can use them. One of these documents must have your signature. If you don’t show any of these documents, you will not be allowed to take the test and you will lose your appointment.
When you take the Hazard Perception Test on the computer, you will watch 28 videos. Each video runs for 30 seconds. This test will show if you understand what to do on the road. There are sample tests on VicRoads’ web site for people to have a look at before taking the actual test. You will need to get a score of 54% to pass the Hazard Perception Test on the computer. If you don’t, you will have to pay the money again and book another test.
The driving test is the final step before you get your “P” licence. It will show that you can control the car you are driving and obey traffic rules. It will show that you don’t put your life or other people’s lives at risk.
When you get your “P” licence, you will be able to drive a car alone. You must display red “P” plates so other drivers know that you are fairly new to driving. You must not have any alcohol in your blood when you drive a car. You must not use a mobile phone in your hand while you drive. You must carry your licence card at all times while driving.
