Qualified Supervising Driver

A Learner’s Permit driver must be supervised whilst driving by a Qualified Supervising Driver.

The Qualified Supervising Driver requirement was introduced as part of the enhanced Graduated Licensing Scheme on 31 October 2005.

The qualified supervising driver is required to supervise the learner driver in the safe, efficient operation of the motor vehicle while complying with the road rules.

The qualified supervising driver who accompanies a learner driver must, at any time the learner is driving the vehicle (including during parking practice), be seated immediately next to the learner or, if the vehicle is a motor bike, be a passenger on the bike or in a sidecar attached to the bike.

Family members and others can supervise learners, providing they meet the following requirements.

What is a Qualified Supervising Driver (QSD)?

A Qualified Supervising Driver must have held a full unconditional licence for the preceeding 2 years applicable to the class of vehicle being driven and:

• cannot hold a provisional or probationary licence or be subject to the condition of 'good behaviour';
• must not have been disqualified in the previous 2 years;
• must not have a blood alcohol reading of more than 0.05 or the presence of THC (Cannabis) or Methylamphetamine (Speed) in their blood or oral fluid.
• In certain heavy vehicles must comply with the 'hours of driving' rules as if he or she was driving.

An exemption applies to drivers failing to meet the qualified supervising driver requirements due to a lapse in the 2 year period only because of failure to renew their licences on time. If this driver meets all other requirements and the licence was renewed within 3 months of expiry and the licence was held for a total period of at least 2 years (excluding any period of expiry) they are permitted to accompany a learner driver. Please note that a driver is permitted to drive or be a qualified supervising driver during any period between expiry and renewal.

Family members and others can still supervise learners, providing they meet these requirements.