The practical driving test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can check whether you are eligible to book in your state.
• You can prepare a test car that meets the requirements.
• You can describe what the examiner is looking for.
• You can explain why an unsafe action ends the test.

What you need to know and understand

• NSW: minimum age 17. Under 25s need 12 months on their learner licence, 120 logbook hours including 20 at night, and a current HPT pass.
• Victoria: minimum age 18 for a probationary licence. You must pass the HPT first, and under 21s must prove 120 hours including 20 at night. An eyesight test is part of the drive test appointment.
• WA: the PDA can be booked from 17 once you have at least 50 hours including 5 at night.
• You supply the test car. It must be registered, roadworthy and safe. Victoria and WA require a centrally mounted handbrake the examiner can reach (Victoria, if you test without an instructor).
• In Victoria the drive takes about 30 minutes, with easier situations first, then a broader range of traffic. Any unsafe action stops the test.
• If you pass in an automatic, NSW limits you to automatics while on P1 (unless a full licence holder supervises you in a manual), and Victoria limits you for your whole probationary period unless you pass another test in a manual.

What the examiner watches

WA describes its PDA as judging the overall quality of your driving rather than how you perform separate skills. Directions are given clearly and examiners do not try to trick you.

• Control of the car: smooth steering, braking, gear changes and speed.
• Observation: mirrors, head checks and scanning for hazards.
• Following the road rules, including speed limits, give way rules and signalling.
• Safe gaps and following distances.
• Cooperation with other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
• Low speed manoeuvres such as parking or turning around, depending on the state.

Getting ready for test day

1. Check you meet the age, time on Ls and logbook requirements for your state.
2. Book online or by phone through your road authority, and note the cancellation deadline.
3. Do a mock test with an instructor in the weeks before.
4. Check the car: registration current, lights and indicators working, tyres sound, L plates fitted.
5. Bring your learner licence, logbook (or completed app declaration) and payment.
6. Arrive early. WA asks you to arrive at least ten minutes before your PDA and VicRoads suggests 15 minutes; if you are late you may have to rebook and pay again.

During the drive

Drive as you normally would with your supervisor: legally, calmly and with good observation. If you miss a direction, take the next safe option rather than making a sudden move. If you make a small mistake, put it behind you and focus on the next part of the drive.

In Victoria, your instructor can sit in if the car has dual controls and they hold a current instructor authority; otherwise only the testing officer is with you.

Common mistakes

• Booking before you have enough experience. Most fails come from too little varied practice.
• Turning up with an unsuitable car. Check the requirements so you are not turned away.
• Rolling through stop signs or creeping over the limit. Basic rule breaches cost marks or end the test.
• Skipping head checks when changing lanes or pulling out. Examiners look for these every time.
• Rushing after a mistake. Stay calm and keep driving safely.

Test yourself: The practical driving test

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.