Can I Learn to Drive in Australia if I Am Not Australian?

Australia welcomes thousands of international visitors, students, and new migrants every year. One common question they ask is:

“Can I learn to drive in Australia if I’m not a citizen?”

The answer is yes—but it depends on your visa type, residency status, and local licensing rules.

In this blog, we’ll explain what non-Australians need to know to legally learn to drive in Australia, including learner licence requirements, documents, and training options.



Who Can Learn to Drive in Australia?

You don’t need to be an Australian citizen to learn how to drive in Australia.

You can take driving lessons and apply for a licence if you are:

  • A permanent resident
  • A temporary visa holder (e.g. student visa, work visa)
  • A refugee or humanitarian entrant
  • A visitor staying for an extended period

The exact rules vary depending on the state or territory you’re in (e.g. QLD, NSW, VIC, etc.).

Learning to Drive on an International Licence

If you already hold a valid overseas licence, most Australian states allow you to:

  • Drive temporarily using your international licence
  • Learn to drive and convert your overseas licence to an Australian one

Note: Rules differ by state. For example, Queensland allows driving on an international licence for up to 3 months after becoming a resident.

Applying for a Learner Licence as a Non-Australian

If you do not have a driver’s licence from your home country, you must apply for a learner permit.

Here’s what’s generally required:

Basic Eligibility:

  • Minimum age (usually 16 years old)
  • Proof of identity (passport, visa, etc.)
  • Residency evidence (rental agreement, student ID, utility bill)
  • Pass a written road rules test

Once you get your learner licence, you can legally begin driving under supervision.

Can International Students Learn to Drive?

Yes, international students in Australia can legally take driving lessons and apply for a licence.

If you’re studying in Australia on a student visa (subclass 500), you can:

  • Take driving lessons with a certified driving school
  • Apply for a learner permit and eventually a full Australian licence
  • Use your international licence in the interim (if permitted by your state)

Many driving schools in cities like Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney offer multilingual support in languages like Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Mandarin, and more.

Documents Required for Non-Australians

To start learning, you typically need to provide:

  • Passport
  • Visa or immigration document
  • Proof of address in Australia
  • Medicare card (if applicable)
  • Tax File Number (TFN) or bank statement (for ID points)

Each state has its own "100-point identity check" system. Visit your state’s transport authority for full details.

Taking Driving Lessons as a Non-Citizen

You can take lessons from a licensed driving school even if you’re not an Australian citizen. In fact, professional instruction is highly recommended for first-time drivers or those unfamiliar with Australian road rules.

Look for schools that offer:

  • Qualified, friendly instructors
  • Practice tests and mock assessments
  • Lessons in your native language
  • Automatic or manual vehicle options

In Brisbane? Explore Driving School Brisbane, which offers car and truck driver training in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Tips for Non-Australian Learners

  • Learn the local road rules

Australia's rules differ from many countries (e.g., driving on the left side, roundabout usage, etc.).

  • Use an accredited driving school

You’ll increase your chances of passing the test on the first attempt.

  • Get comfortable with the driving test route

Practicing in common test areas builds familiarity and reduces nerves.

  • Check if your international licence can be converted

Some countries have licence agreements with Australia.

Final Thoughts

So, can non-Australians learn to drive in Australia? Absolutely.

Whether you’re a student, migrant, or skilled worker, you can start your driving journey by applying for a learner licence or converting your international permit. With the right documents, training, and preparation, you'll be ready to drive confidently on Australian roads.

Ready to Begin?

If you're in Brisbane and want expert guidance, book a lesson with Global Driving School Brisbane—specialising in car and HR truck driver training for non-native speakers and visa holders.

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