How to get your licence?

Getting Your Licence in Perth – Step-by-Step Guide

Learning to drive in Western Australia involves several important steps designed to help new drivers gain the knowledge and experience needed to drive safely.

At PD Driving School, we guide learners through the licensing process and help them prepare for each stage with structured driving lessons and practical training.

Below is a simplified overview of the steps required to obtain a driver’s licence in Western Australia.

1. Pass the Theory Test

Before you begin driving lessons, you must pass a theory test at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) centre.

The test checks your understanding of road rules and safe driving practices.

Car (C Class) Licence Theory Test

• Includes 30 multiple-choice questions
• You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass
• The test content is based on the Drive Safe handbook

Moped (R-N Class) Licence Theory Test

• Includes 35 multiple-choice questions
• You must answer at least 28 questions correctly
• Questions focus on road rules and safe riding practices
• Study material is available in the Ride Safe handbook

LAMS Motorcycle (R-E Class) Licence Theory Test

• Consists of 35 multiple-choice questions
• A minimum of 28 correct answers is required to pass
• The test also follows the information provided in the Ride Safe handbook

If you do not pass the test, you can book another attempt. However, the test cannot be retaken on the same day and an additional fee may apply.

2. Apply for a Learner’s Permit

After successfully completing the theory test, you can apply for a learner’s permit.

The minimum age requirements include:

• Car (C Class): 16 years or older
• Moped (R-N Class): 15½ years or older
• LAMS Motorcycle (R-E Class): 16 years or older

During the application process, you will also complete:

• An eyesight test
• A declaration regarding medical conditions or medications

3. Start Learning to Drive

Once you have your learner’s permit, you can start learning to drive a car.

Learner drivers must be supervised by a fully licensed driver who has held their licence for at least four years.

Professional lessons with a qualified instructor can help learners develop safe driving habits and improve their confidence on the road.

When practising outside of lessons, learner drivers must display ‘L’ plates on the vehicle.

4. Take the Hazard Perception Test

The Hazard Perception Test (HPT) is a computer-based test that shows video scenarios of real traffic situations.

You must identify potential hazards and respond appropriately.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Holding your learner’s permit for at least six months
• Being 16 years and 6 months or older

For moped licences, the six-month waiting period may not apply once you have your learner’s permit.

5. Complete 50 Hours of Supervised Driving

After passing the Hazard Perception Test, learner drivers must complete a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving practice.

This includes: At least 5 hours of night driving between sunset and sunrise

All practice hours must be recorded in your Learner Guide and Log Book.

Professional driving lessons can help learners gain additional experience and prepare for the next stage of the licensing process.

6. Take the Practical Driving Assessment

Once you have completed your required practice hours and reached the minimum age of 17 years, you can book the Practical Driving Assessment (PDA).

During the test, an assessor evaluates your ability to:

• Follow road rules
• Control the vehicle safely
• Respond to traffic conditions

If the assessment is unsuccessful, you can book another test after a minimum waiting period of 7 days.

7. Receive Your Provisional Licence

After successfully completing the Practical Driving Assessment, you will be issued a P1 provisional licence.

Drivers must display red P-plates during the first stage of their provisional period.

After six months, drivers move to green P-plates, which must be displayed until:

• You have held your licence for at least two years, or
• You reach 19 years of age (whichever period is longer)

Once this period is completed, the licence is upgraded to a full driver’s licence.

Need More Information?

For the most up-to-date details about licensing requirements in Western Australia, visit the Department of Transport website.

You can also contact PD Driving School if you would like assistance preparing for your driving test or improving your driving skills through professional lessons.

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