The Western Australia learner knowledge test
In Western Australia the learner knowledge test is called the Computerised Theory Test, or CTT. You must pass it before you can be issued a car learner's permit.
The test checks that you understand the road rules and safe driving practices before you ever sit behind the wheel. A good result comes from understanding the rules, not memorising answers.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can describe the format of the CTT and the pass mark.
- You can name the official book the questions are based on.
- You can explain what happens if you do not pass.
- You can use the official online practice quiz to prepare.
- You can plan your test visit so it starts in time.
What you need to know and understand
- The car CTT has 30 multiple choice questions. You need at least 24 correct to pass.
- Questions cover the road rules and safe driving practices in the Drive Safe handbook.
- You cannot use a mobile phone or other device, or look at the handbook, during the test.
- A pass is valid for 5 years.
- If you do not pass, you must sit the test again and pay a resit fee.
- The test must be started before 3.45 pm at DTMI centres.
- Students who completed Keys4Life at school can present their certificate instead of sitting the CTT.
What the CTT looks like
You sit the test on a computer at a Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) service centre or regional agent, usually on the same visit as your learner's permit application. Each question has several answers and you choose one.
The questions come from the Drive Safe handbook. Expect questions on speed limits, alcohol and drugs, seatbelts and child restraints, phones, giving way, signs and road markings, overtaking, parking and stopping rules, and what to do in emergencies.
A study plan that works
- Read the Drive Safe handbook from start to finish, one part at a time.
- Make short notes on numbers: speed limits, distances, BAC limits and time periods.
- Do the official Road Rules theory test quiz on the DTMI website.
- For every practice question you get wrong, find the matching page in the handbook and reread it.
- Repeat the quiz until you pass comfortably, then book your visit.
If you do not pass
Do not be discouraged. You will need to sit the test again and pay the resit fee, which DTMI listed as $19.20 at the time of writing, compared with $22.40 for the first attempt. Use the time to study the topics that caught you out. Our guide to the WA Computerised Theory Test has more on question styles and preparation.
Common mistakes
- Relying only on practice quizzes. The real test can ask about any part of the handbook, so read it all.
- Mixing up rules from other states or countries. Answer using WA rules only.
- Rushing. Read every option before choosing, as two may look similar.
- Arriving late in the day. The test will not be started after 3.45 pm at DTMI centres.
- Ignoring numbers such as stopping distances near crossings and bus stops. They are easy marks if you learn them.
Test yourself: The Western Australia learner knowledge test
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure WA: Take the Computerised Theory Test (CTT) page and Get your learner's permit page (fees as listed November 2026); Drive Safe: A handbook for Western Australian road users (revised 5 August 2026), Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure. Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your state or territory road authority.