Driving as a learner in New South Wales (NSW) comes with specific conditions to ensure safety and skill development. Below is a detailed guide covering learner licence rules, requirements, and key restrictions.

💡
Thousands of unbeatable car deals are waiting for you at CarExplore.

Let our experts do the hard work so you can drive away with the best price. Start exploring today. Find out more!

Learner Licence Conditions

  • A learner driver must be supervised at all times by a full (unrestricted) licence holder.
  • If under 25, learners must complete 120 hours of supervised driving, including 20 hours of night driving.
  • The maximum speed limit for learners is 90km/h, regardless of posted speed limits.
  • Exceeding the speed limit results in demerit points and an automatic 3-month licence suspension.
  • Mobile phone use is strictly prohibited, including hands-free and GPS use.
  • Learners cannot tow trailers or any other vehicles.
  • Learner conditions apply even when driving in other Australian states or territories.
NSW Average Speed Camera Trial: What Drivers Need to Know
NSW to trial average speed cameras for all vehicles on two regional highways in 2025. 60-day warning period before full enforcement begins.
CarExploreDylan Anderson

Displaying L Plates

  • L plates must be clearly visible on the front and back of the vehicle.
  • Plates must be on the outside of the vehicle, with the L clearly displayed.

Zero Alcohol Policy

  • Learner drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
  • Any alcohol consumption before driving can result in penalties and licence suspension.

Mobile Phone Rules

  • Learners cannot use mobile phones in any capacity while driving.
  • The only permitted use is for:
  • Showing a Digital Driver Licence when requested by police.
  • Using wallet functions when parked.
💡
You'd be surprised how much you could save on a new car. Find out more!

Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS)

To progress to a full licence, learners must:

  • Pass the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) to obtain an L licence.
  • Gain supervised experience and log required hours.
  • Pass the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) before attempting the driving test.
  • Complete the Driving Test to obtain a P1 licence.
NSW Parking Fines: The Rules You Need to Know in 2025
NSW drivers lost over $200 million to parking fines in 2024. Learn the lesser-known rules and regulations that could save you hundreds in 2025.
CarExploreDylan Anderson

Safer Drivers Course

  • Helps learners develop hazard awareness and safe driving skills.
  • Completion earns 20 log book credit hours.
  • Available for learners under 25 with at least 50 log book hours.
  • Additional structured lessons with a professional instructor can earn more credits.

Supervising Learner Drivers

  • A free Supervising Learner Drivers Course is available to parents/carers.
  • Supports full licence holders in coaching safe driving behaviours.

3-for-1 Structured Lessons

  • One hour of structured lessons with a NSW licensed instructor counts as three log book hours.
  • Up to 10 structured lessons can be logged, providing a maximum of 20 bonus hours.

NSW Road Rules and Special Conditions

  • Learners must follow all NSW road rules, plus additional restrictions:
    • Must always have a supervising driver in the front passenger seat.
    • Learners cannot drive above 90km/h.
    • No towing is permitted.
    • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal.
    • No driving in Parramatta Park, Moore Park, or Centennial Park in Sydney.
  • These conditions apply when driving outside NSW, along with additional local road rules.

Demerit Points and Penalties

  • Learners have a 4 demerit point limit within 3 years.
  • Exceeding this limit results in licence suspension or disqualification.
  • Speeding, illegal phone use, or drink-driving can lead to immediate licence loss.

Getting Ready for a P1 Licence

  • Learners must pass the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) before taking the driving test.
  • The Driving Test assesses hazard awareness, decision-making, and practical driving skills.
  • Passing the test allows learners to move to a P1 licence.

For more details, visit the NSW Government website to check official learner driver resources and practice tests.

💡
Interested in a new car? Let us find you a deal. Find out more!
NSW Red P Plate Rules: Everything You Need to Know
Getting your Red Ps in NSW? Learn all the rules, restrictions, tests, and penalties for P1 drivers. Stay safe and keep your licence!
CarExploreDylan Anderson
1.4M NSW Drivers: Demerit Point Reward in 2026!
Want a demerit point removed from your NSW license? Learn how to qualify for the reward in 2026 by driving safely. Simple steps here!
CarExploreDylan Anderson