We know that navigating the Graduated Licensing System (GLS) can be tricky! There are specific rules that apply to different types of licence holders in Victoria, and this is regularly being updated.
So, to make this process easier, we’ve compiled and answered some of the most frequently asked questions of Learner and P-Plate drivers to help support you through this process.
We hope this helps clarify things for you – and if something is missing, please message us here and we will get back to you with an answer ASAP. Otherwise, the Department of Transport website is also a helpful resource for information on all Victorian road laws.
General GLS
GLS stands for Graduated Licensing System. This is the process that new drivers move through from their learners, P1 and P2 licence (that’s red and green P’s) to full licence. Through experience, restrictions, conditions and tests, the GLS is designed to prepare young drivers to be safer on the roads.
Some of the key features that Victoria’s GLS include:
- Compulsory 120 hours of logged supervised learner driving experience
- A challenging on-road driving test
- A two stage probationary licence – P1 (minimum one year) and P2 (minimum three years)
- A peer passenger restriction for P1 drivers
Nope, nup, nada. All drivers in the GLS cannot use their mobile phones in any capacity. This includes calling, texting, Bluetooth, hands-free, GPS, and music. Drivers in the GLS are still inexperienced and so a blanket ban on drivers using their mobile phones was found to be necessary to minimise distractions.
There are hefty consequences if you are caught using your mobile phones including a $545 fine and 4 demerit points.
GPS – You can use a classic NavMan or TomTom, or ask your mum and dad or whoever is in the passenger seat to provide directions. They are allowed to use their phone as a GPS to provide you with directions.
Music – Classic radio hits, CD’s or go acapella with back-seat singalongs.
Calling/texting – Put your phone on silent or do not disturb mode, and potentially adding an automated message letting people know that you are busy driving.
Social media – Snapchat and TikTok can wait.
MyLearnersApp – Have your supervising driver help you use this. If you need to interact with the app, making sure you use it before you turn your car on or after you turn your car off.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to use your phone, make sure you pull over safely on the side of the road and turn the ignition off before you grab it.
Nil – 0.00. Anything higher than this and you can lose your licence immediately, have to attend a behaviour change program and get an interlock installed in your car. Not fun.
Each year about 17 per cent of drivers killed in road crashes had a BAC of 0.05 or above. So make sure every time you hop into a car you know that the driver is sober and OK to drive.
Learner specific
There are two main ways you can prepare for the test. Number one is reading through the Road to Solo Driving handbook which is what the test is based upon. You can download a free copy of this handbook online here or purchase it from VicRoads, RACV, some newsagencies and post offices.
The second way to practice is through the VicRoads’ online practice learner permit test which will have questions similar to the ones you’ll find in the real test.
The computerised test has 32 questions total, and you will need to get at least 25 questions or 78% correct to pass.
You start with 0 on your licence, and once you get 5 points in a year or 12 points in 3 years as a learner driver you can risk losing your permit.
You must complete a minimum of 120 hours of supervised driving, including at least 20 hours at night. These hours should be recorded in your myLearners app.
P-Plate specific
- Had my 18th birthday
- If under 21, have held your Learner’s Permit for a minimum of 12 months
- Logged 120 supervising driving hours in MyLearnersApp, including a minimum of 20 hours of night driving
- Practice the Hazard’s test online
- Chosen a VicRoads testing location
- Have a professional driving lesson to make sure I’m adequately prepared and ready
- Read the following blog on what to expect
Here’s a list of the restrictions you have on your P1 or red P-Plate licence:
- Must carry driver licence when driving
- Must display red P plates
- Must not use a mobile phone of any kind
- Must not tow another motor vehicle or a trailer (unless you have a work exemption)
- Must not carry more than one peer passenger aged 16 to less than 22 years of age
- Must have zero blood alcohol content (BAC)
- Must drive an automatic vehicle if tested in an automatic vehicle
The main difference between red and green P’s is that your peer passenger restrictions are lifted on your green P’s.
Great question. As a P1 or red P-Plate driver, you can only carry one peer passenger between the age of 16 and 22. The exception is your immediate family members including spouses, siblings and step siblings, but this does not include cousins.
You start with 0 on your licence, and once you get 5 points in a year or 12 points in 3 years as a probationary driver you can risk losing your licence.
