The South Australia learner knowledge test

By the end of this topic you can

• You can describe the two parts of the in-office theory test and the pass mark for each.
• You can compare myLs with the in-office test, including cost of retakes.
• You can apply the give way rules to diagram questions.
• You can plan a study routine using official resources.

What you need to know and understand

• The in-office test has Part A: 8 give way diagram questions, all of which must be answered correctly.
• Part B has 42 multiple-choice questions on road rules and road safety; you need 32 correct.
• You must pass Part A before you can attempt Part B.
• myLs takes around four hours of learning, and its final learner theory test takes about 30 minutes.
• myLs gives you 12 months and unlimited test attempts for one fee; in-office tests are booked and paid for each attempt.
• Bring proof of age, address and identity when you sit an in-office test.

How the in-office test is built

The handbook's sample test shows two parts. Part A shows give way situations in diagram form, and there is no room for error: all 8 must be right. Part B covers wider rules and safety topics such as speed limits, alcohol, seatbelts, signs, overtaking and parking. You need at least 32 of the 42.

Because Part A is all or nothing, many learners spend extra time on intersections, roundabouts, T-intersections and slip lanes before the test.

myLs: learning and testing in one

myLs mixes short lessons with quizzes and challenges, then finishes with the learner theory test. You enrol at Service SA, then work through it on a phone, tablet or computer at your own pace. Once you pass, the test locks, but the course content stays open until your subscription ends, which is handy for revision while you learn to drive.

If you already hold a current Australian licence or learner's permit you do not need myLs, though you can use it as a refresher.

A study plan that works

1. Read the Road Rules and Your Road Safety Responsibilities sections of The Driver's Handbook, a section at a time.
2. Draw simple give way sketches: who goes first at a T-intersection, at a roundabout, when turning right against oncoming traffic, and at a slip lane.
3. Use the official practice theory test on the mylicence website when it is available; it draws random questions from the real test.
4. Learn the numbers: default limits of 50 and 100 km/h, 25 km/h zones, zero alcohol for learners and the 4-point limit.
5. Book the in-office test, or sit the myLs test, only when you score well every time in practice.

Common mistakes

• Guessing on give way diagrams. One wrong answer in Part A means you fail, so slow down and check every vehicle.
• Studying another state's rules online. South Australian learner rules, such as zero alcohol and the 100 km/h cap, are what you are tested on.
• Forgetting identity documents on test day and losing the booking.
• Rushing myLs lessons to reach the test. The course is meant to teach the material, not just get you through.

Test yourself: The South Australia learner knowledge test

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

Go deeper

• High-Powered Vehicles and the U Class Licence in South Australia
• Learning to Drive in South Australia
• South Australia Health Professional Reporting