Introduction

To apply for a learner driver licence, you must be 16 years of age or older. You’ll need to visit a service centre to prove your identity, pass a Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) and have your eyes tested.

If you live with disability, before you attend the service centre, make an appointment with your medical specialist. They will be able to advise you if any additional information will be required, such as a medical assessment.

After passing the DKT, you can apply for a NSW Photo Card at the same time if you wish, and take advantage of paying a reduced application fee for it.

Eligibility

You need to be 16 years of age or older.

What you need

  • your Photo Card if you have one, or:
  • your concession card details (if applicable)
  • a completed medical assessment (if applicable)
  • your glasses or contact lenses (if you wear them)
  • your payment
  • the PDF form – 'Licence Application'.

Note: Original paper documents that have been laminated are not accepted as proof of identity.

How to apply

  1. Download and complete the Licence Application – PDF.
  2. Check the tick box to apply for a Photo Card (if applicable).
  3. Make sure you have all your documentation and any additional items (if applicable).
  4. Visit a service centre and submit your application.

Note: If you'd like to undertake the DKT when you visit the service centre, you must make a booking.

More information

  • You must not use any function of a mobile phone while you're driving or riding. This includes when you're waiting at lights, or stuck in traffic, and means texting, hands-free, speaker mode and GPS functions. The only time you can use your mobile is when you're safely parked out of the line of traffic.
  • You can practise for the Driver Knowledge Test online.
  • If you’re under 25, you must record your driving experience in a log book. You can choose to use a paper log book or a log book app. You'll receive the paper log book when you’re issued with your learner licence. You can download the free log book apps from your preferred app store.
  • If you are 25 years or older, you are not required to log your driving hours in a log book.
  • If you live with disability, visit Your driver or rider licence – for people with disability to find out the options that are available to you when getting your NSW driver licence.
  • You hold your learner licence for at least 12 months, and must complete 120 hours of supervised driving practice, including 20 hours of night driving. If you're 25 or older, you can apply for your provisional P1 licence at any time after obtaining your learner licence.
  • A list of licence fees can be found on the Transport for NSW (TfNSW) website.
  • When you apply for or renew a licence card or Photo Card at a service centre, it will be posted to you at no extra cost. Cards usually arrive within 10 working days.
  • If you have not received your card through the mail within 10 working days, please call us on 13 77 88.
  • The Photo Card is voluntary – you do not have to have one, but you may find it useful to prove your identity in situations not related to driving.
  • Renewal notices are mailed generally within 6 weeks of the card's expiry date.
  • For driver licence renewals or applications, a receipt is provided that allows you to drive until the card arrives in the mail. The receipt is valid for 30 days.
  • The Driver Licensing Access Program supports disadvantaged communities enter or re-enter the NSW driver licensing system. The program helps with the management of outstanding fines, literacy support, understanding road rules, preparation for licensing tests and driving experience.

Payment methods

You can review transaction payment options on our payment methods page.

Last updated: 28 November 2023