Get a learner's permit

You need to sit the learner’s permit Computerised Theory Test (CTT) when applying for your learner’s permit, and must pass the test before driving.

The first thing to do is read the appropriate handbook and practice the relevant theory test. Ensure you’ll be confident sitting the test before you head into a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) centre or regional agent.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a minimum of 16 years of age for a car (C class) or LAMS motorcycle (R-E class) learner's permit.
• Be a minimum of 15 ½ years of age for a moped (R-N class) learner's permit.
• Submit a completed driver's licence application (Form DLA1).
• Bring your required proof of identification documents. 
• Pay the theory test fee, the application fee and the Learner Log Book fee (if you choose to log hours in the printed log book). There is no fee to use the Learn&Log app.
• Successfully complete a Computer Theory Test (CTT).

DoT recommends that all applicants applying for a C class apply for an unrestricted driver’s licence (C class). When you get a learner's permit to drive C class vehicles you can take your lessons and your practical driving assessment in a manual or an automatic vehicle. If you pass your driving test in an automatic vehicle, your licence will be issued as a C-A class.

Theory test

The theory test is a knowledge-based assessment of your understanding of the WA road rules. The Drive Safe and Ride Safe handbooks and other reference materials, including the use of mobile devices/phones, are not permitted during the test.

You will need to do a theory test at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) centre or regional agent. Theory tests must commence before 3.45 pm at Metropolitan centres. Regional agents may require earlier attendance to sit the test; please refer to our Contact search for details.

If you fail, you cannot attempt the test again on the same day - you’ll need to come back another day, pay a fee, and bring your proof of identity documents again.

The theory test must be completed within an allocated time limit. 

You must complete the test within the time limit specified for the test category undertaken. If you do not complete the test within the time allocated, the test will automatically be terminated and marked with a ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ result determined on the number of questions completed and answered correctly.

Should I book?

There is no requirement to book at any of our metropolitan DVS centres or regional Department of Transport centres. Regional agent sites may require a booking contact your local DVS agent to see if a booking is required.

Car licence theory test

The theory test for a car (C class) consists of 30 multiple choice questions on road rules and safe driving practices. To pass the test you must score a minimum of 24 correct answers. You have 35 minutes to complete this test.

Moped/Motorcycle licence theory test

The theory test for moped (R-N class) or for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) (R-E class) consists of 35 multiple choice questions on road rules and safe driving practices relating to motorcycles. To pass the test you must score a minimum of 28 correct answers. You have 35 minutes to complete this test.

Oral theory test

You may be eligible to complete the theory test orally, if you have:

• Very limited understanding of the English language.
• Difficulty reading English.
• Computer literacy limitations.

You will need to speak and understand English well enough to understand the testing officer and answer the questions. You need to get 24 out of 30 questions correct to pass the test.

Ask about an oral theory test when you apply for your learner’s permit and you feel you may meet the eligibility requirements.

Your eyesight test will be conducted at the same time and location as paying the application fee for your learner's permit.

If you need any visual aids to pass the eyesight test, your learner's permit will be endorsed with a condition to show that you must wear visual aids when driving. You'll need to have your visual aids with you.

You must declare on the application form whether you have any medical conditions and/or take any medication. You will be advised if you need a medical assessment before you are granted your learner's permit.

For more information refer to driving with and reporting a medical condition.

When you get your learner's permit you have a choice of using a printed Learner Log Book or you may opt to use the Learn&Log app to record your supervised driving hours.

Use of the Learn&Log app is free. If you choose to use the printed Log Book to record your hours, a fee applies.

You can switch from the printed Log Book to the app at any time by downloading Learn&Log from the App Store or Google Play. Make sure you keep your printed Log Book in a safe place at all times.