How to Get Your Northern Territory Driver's Licence

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

The Northern 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 NT Driver Knowledge Test (30 questions, 80% pass = 24 correct) at an MVR office.

  • 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 6 Months
Minimum period: 6 months

NT learner drivers under 25 must complete at least 50 hours supervised driving (5 hours night). Hold learner licence for at least 6 months.

  • Display L plates
  • Supervised by fully licensed driver
  • Under 25: 50 hours (5 night)
  • Log hours in official NT logbook
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
3

Step 3: Provisional P1 Licence

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum period: 12 months

Pass the NT on-road driving test to earn your P1 (red P plates) licence. You can drive independently with conditions.

  • 50 hours logged (under 25)
  • 6+ months on learner
  • Pass NT on-road driving test at MVR
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
4

Step 4: Provisional P2 Licence

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum period: 12 months

After 12 months on P1, upgrade to P2 (green P plates).

  • 12 months on P1 with no major offences
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone
5

Step 5: Full (Open) Licence

Age 18+ Minimum

After completing all provisional stages, apply for your full NT open driver licence through MVR.

  • 12 months on P2
  • No major 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 Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR).

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 Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) 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 Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) 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
AusDriving.com practice testsFREEUnlimited tests, no sign-up

Start Practising for Your NT DKT Today

Free practice tests — no sign-up, no cost, unlimited attempts.

Start Mini Test Full Practice Test