Dreaming of Driving? Here’s How Old You Must Be to Get Your Learner’s Permit in Victoria!

Dreaming of Driving? Here’s How Old You Must Be to Get Your Learner’s Permit in Victoria!

Learning to drive is an exciting milestone — but before you can hit the road in Victoria, Australia, you need to know if you’re old enough to apply for your learner’s permit (Ls). Here’s everything you need to know about the minimum age and steps to get started.

How Old Do You Have to Be?

In Victoria, Australia, you must be at least:

• 16 years old to apply for a learner's permit.
• You can actually start your online learner course and test when you’re 15 years and 11 months, but you won’t be able to get the permit card until the day you turn 16.

What Are the Other Eligibility Requirements?

To get your Ls in Victoria, you also need to:

• Live in Victoria.
• Be medically fit to drive (you may need a medical clearance if you have a condition that affects driving).
• Not be disqualified from holding a licence.
  
• Have no unpaid fines or licensing bans that prevent you from applying.
  

How to Get Your Learner’s Permit

You have two options to take the learner knowledge test in Victoria:

 1- Online Learner Permit Test

• Self-paced online course & test you can complete at home.
• Takes around 4–6 hours.
• You have 12 months to complete it after enrolling.
  
• Perfect for most new drivers.
  

2 -  In-Person at VicRoads

• Book a test at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.
• Great if you need interpreter services or have special requirements.

What You’ll Need

Once you pass your test (online or in-person), you’ll need to visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre to get your permit card. Bring:

• Proof of identity (e.g. birth certificate, passport).
• Proof of Victorian residency (e.g. utility bill, bank statement if not on your ID).
• Completed test certificate (if online).
  
• Pay the learner permit fee.
  
• Pass an eyesight check.
  

What’s Next After Getting Your Ls?

Once you have your learner’s permit:

• Always display L-plates when driving.
• Drive with a fully licensed supervising driver.
• Keep to a 0.00 BAC (no alcohol) while driving.
  
• Record at least 120 hours of supervised driving (including 20 hours at night) before going for your Ps if you’re under 21.
  

Your learner permit is valid for 10 years, but most people move on to their Ps well before then.

Why Start as Soon as You Can?

Getting your Ls at 16 gives you more time to build confidence, gain experience, and get ready for your P-plate test when you turn 18 or older. The earlier you start, the more comfortable you’ll feel behind the wheel!