Drive Test Details

drive test vic details

The Drive Test is a 30-minute on-road test taken with a VicRoads testing officer. The test assesses your ability to drive safely, control the car smoothly, obey the road rules and co-operate with other road users.

To attempt the test you must:

  • Be 18 or older
  • Have passed the Hazard Perception Test VIC
  • Have held your learner permit for at least 12 months
  • Have completed your log book (unless exempt)
  • Prove your identity
  • Pass an eyesight test
  • Pay the licence and test fees

It is important to remember that you are under no pressure to take the test as soon as you qualify. The most important thing is that you’re ready to drive unsupervised should you pass. As such, you can continue to practice on your learner permit until you feel confident in your ability to drive independently and safely. If necessary you can renew your learner permit.

When you attend your chosen test location at the time booked you will need to have a number of things with you:

  • Appointment number and/or appointment receipt
  • Completed Learner Driver Log Book to be checked (unless exempt)
  • A suitable, roadworthy vehicle (refer to guide summary for details)
  • Proof of identity (current learner permit card)
  • A method of payment should you pass
  • A supervising driver who can accompany you after the test should you fail

A testing officer and potentially a VicRoads monitoring officer or testing officer in training will accompany you (having more than a testing officer is rare). If present, a monitoring officer is there to watch the testing officer and not you – so don’t be worried.

If the provided vehicle has dual controls, a driving instructor with a Driver Instructor Authority number may accompany you in the front passenger seat during your test. The testing officer/s will then sit in the back seats. During the test, your instructor is not allowed to communicate with you or influence your driving.

Before the test you will be required to complete a pre-drive check that involves identifying and in some cases operating specific vehicle controls. You should consult the Drive Test Criteria and your driving instructor to ensure you will pass this section of the Drive Test.

During the Drive Test an officer will direct you through a set course of 2 stages, and record your performance on a score sheet. Your score is based on your performance in a range of situations and your ability to consistently demonstrate safe driving behaviours. You are assessed against the following key performance areas:

  • observation
  • signal use
  • gap selection
  • speed choice
  • following distance
  • lateral position
  • stop position
  • parking
  • control

Stage 1 involves simple tasks in a low-risk environment and takes about 10 minutes.
Stage 2 involves challenging tasks in busier situations and takes about 20 minutes.

At the end of Stage 1, the testing officer directs the applicant to pull over so scores can be totalled. Only applicants with a satisfactory score can proceed to Stage 2. This prevents potentially unsafe applicants creating danger in busier environments.

If you pass both stages, you’ll be issued with your red Ps or green Ps and can drive without supervision!

If you fail, you will be given feedback that should help you better prepare for your next test.

You should consult the VicRoads produced Drive Test Criteria to assist in preparing for the test. This document will provide you with a complete understanding of the test requirements, what you must do to pass and what you must do to avoid failing. 

Driving Test VIC provides a 39-page summary of this 72-page document. This summary focuses on the most relevant and vital information that can contribute to your success in the Drive Test and is a highly recommended resource as you prepare for the test.

For administrative details including fees and booking information, refer to the VicRoads website to ensure you access the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Check out the other resources available to help you pass the Drive Test and get your probationary licence:

For comprehensive information on probationary licensing and the Drive Test, please refer to the VicRoads website. The above information is a summary of this content and although current when published may now be outdated. To ensure you are accessing the most current and accurate information, use the VicRoads website or visit your nearest VicRoads Customer Service Centre.