How to Get Your Australian Capital Territory Driver's Licence

A complete step-by-step guide to the Australian Capital Territory Graduated Licensing System — from L plates to full licence.

The Australian Capital Territory Graduated Licensing System

Australia uses a Graduated Licensing System (GLS) to give new drivers experience gradually and safely.

1

Step 1: Pass the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT)

Age 16+
Minimum age: 16 years

Pass the ACT DKT (30 questions, 80% = 24 correct) at an Access Canberra service point.

  • Be at least 16
  • Pass DKT (24/30 correct)
  • Pass eyesight test
  • 100-point ID
  • Pay fee
2

Step 2: Learner Licence (L Plates)

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum period: 12 months

ACT learner drivers under 25 must log at least 100 hours supervised driving (10 hours night). Hold learner for at least 12 months.

  • Display L plates
  • Supervised driving only
  • Under 25: 100 hours (10 night)
  • Log all hours officially
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
  • No towing
3

Step 3: Provisional P1 Licence

Minimum 2 Years
Minimum period: 2 years

Pass the on-road driving test to get your ACT P1 licence. The ACT has a 2-year P1 period.

  • 100 hours logged (under 25)
  • 12+ months on learner
  • Pass ACT on-road driving test
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone
  • Max 100 km/h
  • Passenger restrictions for under 25s
4

Step 4: Provisional P2 Licence

Minimum 1 Year
Minimum period: 1 year

After 2 years on P1, progress to P2 for 1 year before your full licence.

  • 2 years on P1 with no major offences
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone
5

Step 5: Full (Open) Licence

Age 20+ Minimum
Minimum age: 20 minimum

After completing P2 requirements, apply for your ACT full open driver licence. No more P plates!

  • 1 year on P2 with no disqualifications
Restrictions:
  • Standard 0.05% BAC

What to Bring to the DKT

You must provide identity documents totalling at least 100 points when applying for your learner licence at Access Canberra.

Primary Documents (70 points each)
  • Australian passport (current or expired <2 years)
  • Australian birth certificate
  • Foreign passport with valid visa (overseas visitors)
  • Australian citizenship certificate
Supporting Documents (25–40 points)
  • Medicare card
  • Bank or credit card
  • Utility bill with current address
  • Phone bill with your name and address
  • Government correspondence

Tips for Passing the DKT

  • Study the Official Handbook

    Download the Access Canberra road rules handbook. Every DKT question is based on this content.

  • Learn All Road Signs

    Use our Road Signs Guide — 30–40% of DKT questions involve road signs.

  • Practice Daily

    Take our mini practice test every day for a week before your real test.

  • Full Simulation

    When scoring 85%+ on mini tests, take a full practice test to simulate exam conditions.

  • Rest Well the Night Before

    Don't cram the night before — a good night's sleep helps memory recall.

Approximate Costs

Fees vary and change over time. Always check the Access Canberra website for current fees.

ItemApproximate CostNotes
Driver Knowledge Test fee~$30–$35Payable at service centre. Retests also incur a fee.
Learner licence fee (1 year)~$50–$70Includes test fee in some states
Provisional (P1) licence fee~$80–$120After passing the driving test
Driving test booking fee~$50–$65For the practical on-road driving test
Professional driving lessons$65–$100/hourRecommended for learners — improves pass rate
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