LEVEL UNLOCKED: YOUR DRIVING TEST
It can feel a little nerve-wracking and you’ll probably heave a big sigh of relief once it’s over, but your Practical Driving Assessment is a key step to getting your P plates.
Your Practical Driving Assessment (or PDA) is not so scary when you feel prepared, so let’s zoom through the process.
TL;DR
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Eligible at 17 years old -
Have had your learner's permit for at least 6 months -
Have recorded at least 50 hours of supervised driving -
Have completed the hazard perception test
Eligibility for your driving test
To be able to take your driving test, you’ll need to:
- be at least 17 years old
- have had your learner's permit for at least 6 months
- have recorded at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 5 hours of night time driving (this last one is a requirement for anyone under 25 years old).
You’ll also need to have passed the Hazard Perception Test and feel confident about driving without a supervising driver. Brushed up on your parking, lane changes and traffic interactions? Let’s goooo!
Booking your test
You can book your driving test online via DoTDirect (you’ll need to create an account), or in person at a regional Driver and Vehicle Services centre or agent. Note that you can’t make an in-person booking at any metropolitan Driver and Vehicle Services centre.
On the day
On the day of the test, you’ll need to arrive with a licensed and roadworthy vehicle in the correct class – so beg or borrow, but definitely don’t steal. Arrive 15 minutes early and make sure you bring your completed DoT issued learner log book, ID and learner’s permit.
Oh, and be profile pic ready, because if you’re successful you’ll have your photo taken on the day for your provisional licence.
How to nail your test
There’s no cheat sheet to a Practical Driving Assessment. Just follow the assessor’s instructions and carry out the set exercises to the best of your ability.
It’s not all-or-nothing
Remember, if you fail you can book in another PDA after 7 days. But if you pass, you’ll pay your renewal fee, have your photo taken and most importantly, be issued your provisional licence. Woot woot!
One of the gang
Congrats, you’re a P plater now. Get to know the P plater rules (these vary with red and green plates), brag to your mates, and revel in that amazing newfound freedom. Endless adventures await.
See what’s up ahead
The test with unexpected turns
Think you can handle a hectic night out with friends, or an epic road trip? See if you’re fully equipped to be a Wheelmate.
Let's go