P Plate Test | 5 Tips for success | Youth Central

Having your Learners is nice, but you know what's nicer? Having your Ps! Here are five easy steps to help you move from your Ls to your Ps.

1. Clock up 120 hours of driving

Before you can go for your Ps you'll need to have had at least 120 hours of supervised driving experience (including 10 hours of night driving).

People who can supervise you include:

  • parents
  • guardians
  • other family members.

If you're between 16 and 20 and you don't have access to a supervising driver or a vehicle, the L2P program works with local councils to help you get your 120 hours.

Minimum time for being on your Ls

On top of clocking up 120 hours, there's also a minimum time that you have to be on your Ls before you can go for your Ps:

  • if you're under 21 you have to be on your Ls for 12 months
  • if you're between 21 and 24, you have to be on your Ls for 6 months 
  • if you're 25 or older you have to be on your Ls for 3 months.

2. Book your tests

To get your licence you generally need to pass two tests:

  • the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) 
  •  the Drive Test.

To book these tests you can either:

If you make the appointment by phone or online, you'll need to pay immediately by card. 

3. Take the Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

The Hazard Perception Test shows you videos of traffic situations and requires you to make safe responses. It takes about 30 minutes.

You don't have to do the HPT if you've had a motorcycle license in the last 5 years.

You can register for the TAC's DriveSmart website to take a sample hazard perception test.

4. Take the Drive Test

On the day of the Drive Test you need to bring:

  • your learner permit 
  • your logbook
  • a clean, registered, roadworthy vehicle with L plates 
  • payment for your licence.

For more details about what to bring, visit the VicRoads How to get your Ps page.

Before the test you'll have your eyesight tested. You'll also need to let VicRoads know about any medical conditions that may affect your driving.

The Drive Test lasts for about 30 minutes and checks that you can:

  • correctly control your vehicle
  • obey the road rules
  • co-operate with other road users
  • drive safely.

During the test, your VicRoads Testing Officer will give you simple, clear instructions, like, "At the next street, turn right." They will mark you on how well you follow the instructions.

If you're unsure about an instruction, you can ask the Testing Officer to repeat it. 

If you do anything illegal or unsafe, the Testing Officer can stop the test. They can also stop the test if anyone interferes or tries to help you.

At the end of the test you'll get your results. If you've passed you'll need to pay for your new Probationary Licence. A list of licence fees is on the VicRoads website.

After you pay, you'll get a paper license to use straight away. Your photographic licence will be sent to you in the mail.

For more information about the Drive Test, visit:

5. Go for a drive!

If you pass all three tests, then congratulations! You're now officially a P-plater!

The first thing you'll need is a set of P plates. Whether you decide to buy, borrow or make your own, they need to meet the requirements listed on the VicRoads Displaying P Plates page.

Now it's time to familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations for probationary drivers. Visit our On your Ps page for more information.

Good luck and safe driving!

Links

TAC L2P Program
Matching learner drivers under 21 with supervising drivers and vehicles.

VicRoads - Your Ps
What you need to know about your P plate tests.

Vic Roads - Licences
Links, tips, information and answers to questions about licences and driving.

TAC - Road Safety
Tools to help you learn how to stay safe on the road.