Learner driver FAQs

Frequently asked questions related to learning to drive or ride a vehicle in Western Australia.

Index



Can I drive at night if I am a P-plater?

Full details on night time restrictions is available in our web on Rules for novice drivers (includes L and P Platers).

How do I apply for a Learner's Permit?

You can find an extensive range of information and resources for learner and novice drivers in our Learner drivers section.

How long do I have to wait between passing my PDA and taking the HPT?

Learner Drivers who were issued their Learners permit before June 29 2008 fall under the ‘old system’ and will NOT have to wait six months between passing their Practical Driving Assessment and taking the Hazard Perception Test. They will only have to do 25 hours of supervised driving and be a minimum age of 17 before completing the Hazard Perception Test.

Learner drivers who were issued a Learners Permit after June 29 2008 are on the new system and can only undertake a Hazard Perception Test (HPT) once a minimum of 6 months has elapsed since they passed their Practical Driving Assessment (PDA). Learner drivers will still be required to complete at least 25 hours of supervised driving prior to being eligible to sit the HPT.



How much does it cost to learn to drive?

Refer to the Payments, fees and concessions section of our website for a schedule of driver licensing fees (including learner driver fees).

What about demerit points for novice drivers?

Graduated demerit point limits apply for novice drivers.

New laws apply:

  • If a person who has not held a driver’s licence for at least one year (or periods adding up to one year) or a person who has never held a driver’s licence gains four or more demerit points they will be disqualified for three months, after which they will have to re-apply for a new licence.
  • If a person who has held a driver's licence for at least one year, but less than two years (or periods adding up to two years) gains a total of eight or more points, they will be disqualified for three months, after which they will have to re-apply for a new licence.
  • To make it fairer for people who already have some demerit points, the points accrued before the new law takes effect will NOT count towards the four or eight point limit, but they WILL still count towards a 12 point limit. (This means that no driver will ever be able to gain 12 or more points without being subject to demerit point disqualification.)

More information.



What do I need to know about Practical Driving Assessments?

For a full explanation on the Practical Driving Assessment, including how to book an assessment, how to prepare for the assessment, and what happens once you pass, please refer to the web page related to the type of licence you want to obtain:

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