Once you have your restricted licence you can start gaining driving experience without a supervisor.

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Know the conditions of your restricted licence

To keep safe while you’re first driving on your own, there are important conditions (rules) that you must follow on your restricted licence. 

The Police enforce these conditions. That’s because you’re still learning and gaining experience – the conditions are designed to avoid the 2 most risky situations you face.

Condition 1: driving late at night

10pm to 5am: you’re not allowed to drive unless you have a supervisor in the front passenger seat.

5am to 10pm: you can drive on your own.

Condition 2: driving with passengers 

You can’t carry passengers without a supervisor, unless the passengers are:

  • your spouse or de facto partner
  • a child who you live with, who is under your care
  • your parent or guardian
  • a relative who lives with you and who is on a benefit
  • someone you look after as their primary caregiver.

More rules

Always take your restricted licence when you’re driving.

If you sat the restricted test in an automatic vehicle, you must only drive automatic vehicles unless you have a supervisor with you.

Breaching the conditions of your restricted driver licence could result in 35 demerit points and a fine of $100. If you reach 100 demerit points in a two-year period, you automatically lose your licence.

If you drink or use drugs, don’t drive

There are specific laws around alcohol and drug use while driving: 

  • Zero alcohol is the law for all drivers under 20. One drink will put you over the limit.
  • Drivers aged 20 or over: you must not drive with more than 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, or more that 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood.
  • Any and all illicit drug use before driving is illegal.
  • If you use counter, prescription or traditional healing medication, it is important to discuss with a health care professional how it may affect your ability to drive safely.

Alcohol and drugs, including some medicines from your doctor, can seriously affect your driving. Even a small amount can slow reaction time and affect your senses. Plan ahead. Catch a lift with a sober friend or call for a ride instead. 

Keep learning

Crashes are much more likely in your first 6-12 months on your restricted licence than any other time in life. You simply don’t have the same amount of experience as people who’ve been driving a long time.  

Keep your coach – ask them to come along if you’re driving in a new situation such as: 

  • long journeys
  • new routes
  • wet weather
  • heavy traffic. 

Plan your route before you get in the car and think ahead about hazards you may encounter and how you would respond.