Convert your
international licence.
Moved to Australia? Book lessons with a verified local instructor to get comfortable with Australian road rules before your knowledge or driving test.
What converting a licence
usually involves.
The exact steps and time limits vary by state and country of origin — this is a general guide. Always confirm your specific requirements with your state road authority.
Step 1
Get your documents ready
Your overseas licence (with an English translation if needed), proof of residency, and identification documents as required by your state.
Step 2
Pass an eyesight test
Every driver converting a licence needs to meet the local eyesight standard — usually a quick check at the time of application.
Step 3
Complete a medical check, if required
Only needed if you have a medical condition that could affect your driving. Most applicants skip this step.
Step 4
Pass a knowledge test
A road rules test covering local signage and laws. The name and format vary by state — see the table below.
Step 5
Pass a driving test, if required
Some states require a practical test depending on your country of origin. Book a test package and use your instructor's car for the day.
Conversion window
& knowledge test by state.
Estimates only — always confirm current figures with your state road authority before relying on a deadline.
| State | Typical conversion window | Knowledge test |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident (or from arrival for some visa holders) — check with TfNSW for your exact situation. | Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) |
| VIC | Typically 6 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with VicRoads for your exact situation. | Learner Permit Knowledge Test |
| QLD | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) for your exact situation. | Road Rules Knowledge Test |
| WA | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with the Department of Transport WA for your exact situation. | Driver and Vehicle Knowledge Test |
| SA | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with Service SA for your exact situation. | Driver’s Handbook Knowledge Test |
| TAS | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with Service Tasmania for your exact situation. | Road Rules Knowledge Test |
| ACT | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with Access Canberra for your exact situation. | Road Rules Knowledge Test (RRKT) |
| NT | Typically 3 months from becoming a permanent resident — check with the Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) for your exact situation. | Knowledge Test |
Documents you'll likely need.
- Your overseas driver’s licence — plus a certified English translation if it’s not in English
- Proof of permanent residency (or your visa status, depending on your state)
- Two forms of identification, as specified by your state road authority
Requirements vary slightly by state — check with your local road authority before you apply.
Common questions
about licence conversion.
How much do driving lessons cost?
Pricing varies by instructor, location, and transmission type. Search your area to compare verified instructors and their rates side by side.
How many lessons do international licence holders usually need?
It depends on your experience and how different Australian road rules are from what you're used to — for example, adjusting to driving on the left. Most experienced overseas drivers book a handful of lessons to build local confidence rather than starting from scratch.
Can ACOFEL convert my licence for me?
No — licence conversion is handled directly by your state's road authority. ACOFEL connects you with a verified local instructor to help you prepare for any knowledge or driving test the conversion requires.
I don't need a full course, just a few lessons to adjust — is that OK?
Yes. Many international licence holders book our refresher lessons instead of a full learner course — a few sessions focused on local road rules and confidence.
Is a driving test always required to convert my licence?
It depends on your state and country of origin — some overseas licences are recognised without a practical test, others aren't. Check with your state's road authority to confirm your exact requirement.
Just need to adjust, not learn from scratch? Check out refresher lessons.
Ready to get
road-ready in Australia?
Search verified instructors near you, compare prices, and book lessons online in minutes.