How to Get Your Queensland Driver's Licence

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

The Queensland 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 Queensland DKT (30 questions, 80% pass = 24 correct) at a TMR Queensland service centre.

  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Pass DKT (80%+ = 24/30 correct)
  • Pass eyesight test
  • Provide 100-point ID
  • Pay learner licence fee
2

Step 2: Learner Licence (L Plates)

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum period: 12 months

Log 100 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night) using the QLD Traffic app or paper logbook. Must hold L plates for at least 12 months.

  • Display L plates
  • Supervised driving only
  • Complete 100 hours (10+ night hours)
  • Log hours in QLD Traffic app or paper logbook
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
  • No towing
3

Step 3: Provisional P1 Licence (Red Ps)

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum age: 17
Minimum period: 12 months

After 100 logged hours and 12 months on learner, pass the QLD on-road driving test to earn your P1 (red P plates) licence.

  • 100 logged hours
  • Minimum 12 months on learner
  • Pass the QLD on-road driving test
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
  • No more than 1 passenger under 25 between 11pm and 5am (under 25s)
4

Step 4: Provisional P2 Licence (Green Ps)

Minimum 12 Months
Minimum period: 12 months

After 12 months on P1 with no major offences, upgrade to P2 (green P plates).

  • 12 months on P1 with no major offences
Restrictions:
  • 0.00% BAC
  • No phone use
  • Max 100 km/h
5

Step 5: Open Licence

Age 18+
Minimum age: 18 (minimum)

After at least 12 months on P2, apply for your Queensland open (full) driver licence.

  • Minimum 12 months on P2
  • No disqualifications
Restrictions:
  • Standard 0.05% BAC limit

What to Bring to the DKT

You must provide identity documents totalling at least 100 points when applying for your learner licence at Department of Transport and Main Roads.

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 Department of Transport and Main Roads 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 Department of Transport and Main Roads 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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