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Getting an Australian driver's licence — state by state
Each state and territory issues licences separately. Conversion rules, recognised-country lists, when the clock starts when you become a PR, and demerit points on overseas licences.
Published 17 May 2026 · Last reviewed 17 May 2026
Each state and territory issues driver's licences separately. Rules for converting an overseas licence depend on the country and the state. The general pattern:
If you're a temporary visa holder
- You can usually drive on your overseas licence as long as it's valid. Some states need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified English translation if your licence isn't in English.
If you become a permanent resident or citizen
- You must convert to a local licence within a set window — 3 to 6 months depending on the state.
State by state (as of May 2026 — verify on the linked sites)
- NSW — Service NSW handles licences. Convert within 3 months of becoming a permanent resident. https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/get-driver-licence
- VIC — VicRoads. Convert within 6 months of becoming a PR. https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/
- QLD — Department of Transport and Main Roads. Convert within 3 months. https://www.qld.gov.au/transport
- SA — Service SA. Convert within 90 days. https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport
- WA — Department of Transport. Convert within 3 months. https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/
- TAS — Transport Tasmania. Convert within 3 months. https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/
- ACT — Access Canberra. Convert within 3 months. https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/
- NT — MVR. Convert within 3 months. https://nt.gov.au/driving
"Recognised country" lists
- Each state has a list of countries whose licences convert without a practical test. Common recognised countries include UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Canada, USA (some states), Japan, South Korea, Singapore.
- If your country isn't recognised, you'll need to sit a Hazard Perception Test (computer) and a practical driving test.
Common gotchas
- Driving on an overseas licence is fine when you arrive, but the clock starts when you become a PR / citizen. Plan around the test if needed.
- Demerit points apply even when you drive on an overseas licence in most states. Your overseas record can be checked.
- The road rules booklet (separate per state) is the practical-test bible — read it cover to cover.
For the road rules themselves (speed limits, drink driving, mobile phones, cameras) see driving rules and getting a licence.