Learning to drive for the first time is an exciting, albeit sometimes anxiety inducing, experience for most young adults and teens. In many cases, there are a lot of questions that arise which may not always have a simple answer. We have taken some of the most frequently asked questions and provided our detailed answers to help you make a decision as you navigate the process of learning to drive.
What are the benefits to learning to drive a manual transmission?
New drivers generally want to learn to drive using an automatic transmission, as they are easier to drive right off the bat. This might not always be the best option. For one, learning to drive a manual will give you a feel for the car’s balance and control that you won’t get with an automatic. This will help make you a better and more in tune driver overall. Additionally, if you learn to drive in an automatic and then want to drive a manual vehicle later, then you will need to take a separate driver’s test in order to become licensed in driving a manual transmission. If you get your license driving a car with a manual transmission, however, you are licensed to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
Can I get my learner hours without using a driving instructor?
Technically, yes. You can learn to drive without the use of an instructor. For most young drivers, a driving instructor is an invaluable source of information and practice and it is highly recommended if you want to get an edge on passing your driving test the first time around. A good driving instructor will not only be highly trained in the areas you’ll need to study for the test, but you will also get firsthand knowledge on defensive driving and become more confident behind the wheel. Additionally, a driving instructor is less likely to make you nervous as you go out on your first few trips – something which probably can’t be said for most parents of new teen drivers.
Are the rules for learning to drive the same in every state?
New South Wales: https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/driver/learner/rules.html
Queensland: https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/getting/rules
Victoria: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences/your-ls/restrictions-on-learner-drivers
Tasmania: https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licensing/getting-a-licence
South Australia: http://mylicence.sa.gov.au/my-car-licence/learners-stage
Northern Territory: https://nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/229225/learner-drivers-guide-2015.pdf
Western Australia: https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/learn-to-drive-my-first-licence.asp
Can I buy a car with my learners permit?
Yes, you can buy a car when you only have a learner permit. You will not be able to drive the car without a licensed driver, however, until you have your own license.
Can a learner driver have passengers?
This varies from state to state. You will have to have a licensed driver in the front seat with you, but in some areas, you may not be able to have passengers in the other seats after a certain time of day, or there may be age restrictions on passengers.
What happens if a learner driver is caught speeding?
If you are caught speeding as a learner driver, then you will have the same consequences as any other driver caught going over the speed limit. You will likely have to demerit points taken from your license or you may have your license revoked entirely. This will vary from state to state.
Ready to book your drivers test?
Looking for more tips before you take your test?
- 5 tips for becoming a safer driver
- Get the right tyres for your terrain
- The car service cost you don’t know about
Find the best driving schools in Australia
- driving schools in Albury
- driving schools in Alice Springs
- driving schools in Ballina
- driving schools in Batemans Bay
- driving schools in Bathurst
- driving schools in Bega
- driving schools in Bundaberg
- driving schools in Caboolture
- driving schools in Cairns
- driving schools in Central Coast
- driving schools in Coffs Harbour
- driving schools in Darwin
- driving schools in Dubbo
- driving schools in Gladstone
- driving schools in Gold Coast
- driving schools in Gosford
- driving schools in Grafton
- driving schools in Gympie
- driving schools in Hervey Bay
- driving schools in Kunda Park
- driving schools in Lismore
- driving schools in Mackay
- driving schools in Maryborough
- driving schools in Mount Isa
- driving schools in Nambour
- driving schools in Newcastle
- driving schools in North Lakes
- driving schools in Nowra
- driving schools in Orange
- driving schools in Parkes
- driving schools in Port Macquarie
- driving schools in Rockhampton
- driving schools in Shellharbour
- driving schools in Sunshine Coast
- driving schools in Tamworth
- driving schools in Taree
- driving schools in Toowoomba
- driving schools in Townsville
- driving schools in Tweed Coast
- driving schools in Tweed Heads
- driving schools in Wagga Wagga
- driving schools in Whitsundays
- driving schools in Wodonga
- driving schools in Wollongong
More from Brit 
