How to Drive a Car in Australia with an Overseas License

• Driving Tips,
• Sep 28, 2022

If you're moving to Australia from overseas, you may be wondering what the process is for driving with an overseas license. In this article, we'll outline the steps you need to take in order to drive with an overseas license in Australia.

On a side note, you may take a Driving theory test and hazard peception test  to make yourself familiar with the road laws of Australia. This test is a mandatory step in getting your license in Australia.

Can I use my international driver's license in Australia?

Varying jurisdictions have different restrictions on using an international license to drive in Australia. If you're a temporary tourist to Australia, you may often drive with an international driving license. You must have an official English translation of your permit or an international driver's license if it is not written in English.

New Zealanders are not covered by that regulation. After three months in Australia, Kiwis are considered interstate tourists and must seek a local license.

Also, keep in mind that the Northern Territory has separate legislation. If you're going there, read this page's section on the Northern Territory.

If you want to reside in Australia, you have a maximum of 3 months to operate on your foreign permit before you must obtain a local license. A few states require that you seek an interim driver's license if you plan to stay in Australia for more than three months.

Translations of Australian driver's licenses and licenses for foreigners

You must have an international driving license, often referred to as an international driver's permit, or a certified interpretation of your foreign license if it isn't written in English. When you operate, you must have your international driving license with you as well as the original copies of these papers.

Although it is a verified document, an overseas driver's permit is not a real driver's license. International driving licenses are often granted by reputable motoring organizations in the same countries as your license. For information on how to get one, contact the licensing authorities in your nation.

An authorized translator must complete official license translations. They could possibly originate from an Australian consulate. For additional information, contact the consulate of your nation in Australia.

Driving in Victoria

Depending on your immigration status, driving in Victoria may be permitted under different circumstances.

If you possess a temporary visa:

You don't need a Victorian driving license if you have a valid foreign driver's license;

For the duration of your visit, your foreign driver's license will be valid; and

Your license must be written in English. You must also have an official English translation or an international driving license.

If you possess a permanent visa:

If the visa was obtained prior to your arrival, you might operate in Victoria for a period of six months using your present foreign license; otherwise,

If it was provided following your arrival in Australia, you might drive in Australia for a period of six months from the day your visa was provided.

Permanent residents must submit an application for a Victorian driving license following the six months limit.

These are the things you need to keep in mind if you are thinking of using your overseas license in Australia. If you want to buy a used car in Australia to drive with an overseas license, a revs check may ease the process.