Converting an overseas driver's licence in Australia: state rules explained
Direct exchange vs. sitting tests
Australia’s approach to overseas licences varies by which country issued your licence and which state or territory you live in.
Countries that may qualify for direct exchange (no tests required): United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, USA, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Germany, and some others — each state maintains its own approved list. Check with your state road authority.
Vietnam is not on any state’s direct exchange list. Drivers from Vietnam (and most other countries) must sit theory and practical driving tests to obtain an Australian licence.
How long can you drive on an overseas licence?
| State/Territory | How long overseas licence is valid |
|---|---|
| NSW | Until you become a permanent resident or apply to live in NSW long-term — then you must convert within 3 months |
| VIC | 6 months from arrival, or until PR granted (whichever is sooner) |
| QLD | 3 months from the date you arrive in QLD |
| WA | 3 months from when you establish residency |
| SA | 3 months |
You must carry your original overseas licence AND either an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation in English (NAATI-certified translator or an Automobile Association in your home country).
NSW process — from overseas licence to full licence
NSW does not offer a direct knowledge test → full licence pathway for non-exchange-country drivers. The process is:
Step 1 — Knowledge Test (Driver Knowledge Test / DKT) Multiple-choice test on road rules. Study the Road Users’ Handbook (free on transport.nsw.gov.au). Book at a Service NSW centre.
Step 2 — Learner (L) Licence Pass the DKT → issued a Learner licence. You must hold it for a minimum period before proceeding (generally 12 months for under-25s; shorter for 25+).
Step 3 — Driving Qualification Test (DQT) / Hazard Perception Test Hazard perception computer test required before booking a driving test (applies to under-25s).
Step 4 — Driving Test Practical on-road test with a Service NSW examiner. Pass → issued a P1 (Provisional 1) licence.
Step 5 — P1 → P2 → Full licence P1 (red plates, 12+ months) → P2 (green plates, 24+ months) → Full licence.
Overseas driving experience may be recognised to shorten the minimum holding period — ask Service NSW about your eligibility when converting.
P1 and P2 restrictions
- P1 (red plates): 0.00 BAC, no mobile phone at all (even hands-free), speed limited to 90 km/h, passenger limits for under-25s.
- P2 (green plates): 0.00 BAC, no mobile phone at all, speed limited to 100 km/h.
VIC process
VicRoads assesses overseas licences individually. If you hold a full (non-provisional) overseas licence, you may be exempt from the Learner stage and sit the Hazard Perception Test → practical driving test directly. Bring your overseas licence and certified translation to a VicRoads service centre.
Costs (approximate — check current fees with your state authority)
| Item | NSW |
|---|---|
| Driver Knowledge Test | ~$25 |
| Learner licence | ~$25 |
| Driving Test | ~$100–$130 |
| P1 licence | ~$65 |