Graduated Licensing Scheme

Enhancements to the Graduated Licensing Scheme for new drivers have been introduced as part of the State Government's commitment to reduce road trauma in South Australia.

Statistics show that new drivers, particularly those between 16 and 20 years, are up to three times more likely to be involved in a serious road crash than other age groups. Research has also found that strengthening the driving experiences and supervision of new drivers through graduated licensing schemes can lead to significant reductions in crashes both before and after obtaining a driver's licence.

The following changes to the licensing scheme are aimed at providing new drivers with more extensive skills and experience to safely progress to a full driver’s licence; rewarding drivers who do the right thing; and penalising more heavily those who don't.

• all current and new Learner’s Permit drivers are to be supervised whilst driving by a qualified supervising driver. A qualified supervising driver is a person holding a current full driver’s licence (not subject to conditions) for at least two years without suspension. Family members and others can still supervise learners, providing they meet these requirements. “Applying for a Learners Permit”

• Learner’s Permit drivers will complete a logbook demonstrating they have completed at least 50 hours of supervised driving under a range of road conditions, including a minimum 10 hours at night. (Motorcycle learners are exempt). “Obtaining your Provisional Licence”

• new Provisional Licence drivers will:
• complete two stages - P1 and P2.
• pass a computerised Hazard Perception Test to progress from P1 to P2.
• progress from P1 to P2 after 12 months if demerit point free or have successfully completed an approved Driver Awareness Course (otherwise it takes two years)
• drivers who commit serious traffic offences will incur additional penalties including night curfews. “Points Demerit Scheme”

Frequently Asked Questions