Rules for Learner Drivers
Just because you have a licence, it doesn’t mean you have the same driving privileges as a Provisional or Open licence holder. With a number of driving restrictions on NSW Learner drivers, it’s important to know what they are and get comfortable with them.
As a NSW Learner driver, you must:
- Only drive cars.
- Be supervised at all times while driving, by the holder of an Open (not Learner or Provisional) Australian driver’s licence.
- Have L plates displayed clearly at the front and back of your vehicle, on the outside (or an L sign on the roof) when driving.
- Observe a maximum speed limit of 90km/h, and observe the posted speed limit where it is below 90km/h.
- Not tow any other vehicle.
- Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration (you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a car).
- Only carry the number of passengers that can be properly seated in seats and restrained by approved seatbelts or child restraints.
- Only drive vehicles that have a seatbelt fitted to the drivers seat (and you must wear the seatbelt).
- Not use any mobile phone, including hands-free devices or loudspeaker, while driving, or when your vehicle is stopped, but not parked.
- If in Sydney, do not drive in Parramatta Park or Centennial Park.
Visit the NSW Roads and Maritime website for all the NSW Learner driver guidelines.
Here’s Some Handy Pointers
Check out these basic tips to remember when starting out on the road. By getting these routines and habits down-pat, you’ll breeze through your 120 logged hours, and also make the road safer for yourself and others.
1. Buckle Up Every Time!
Get into the habit of putting your seatbelt on before you even start the car. You know what they say–safety first!
2. Check Your Mirrors
If a relative or guardian is teaching you how to drive (and they trust you enough to drive their car), you need to remember that the mirrors will be adjusted to their liking. This will be completely different to yours, so ensure you check your side and rear vision mirrors before setting off.
3. Start During the Day
You’re new to driving, so you’re new to all types of road conditions. Get confident driving in the daytime during clear, calm conditions before you up the ante and drive at night, in heavy traffic or in bad weather conditions.
4. Make Your Vehicle a Distraction-free Zone
There’s going to be enough distractions on the road, so put your phone away or out of the car and keep the radio off. You shouldn’t use your phone while driving anyway, but the vibration or ringtone may be too tempting. When taking your phone with you, put it on silent and in the glove box.
5. Listen to Your Instructor/Supervisor!
There will be times when you feel a little frustrated on the road. Take a moment to breathe, listen to your instructor and learn from their experience—especially when it comes to parking!
