This page contains general information sourced from Access Canberra and related government websites. For current requirements and official updates, please visit accesscanberra.act.gov.au.
A full licence in the ACT is the final stage in the ACT driver licensing scheme. It allows you to drive without P plates and without the restrictions that apply to provisional drivers. Once you hold a full licence, you are considered an experienced driver under ACT law and may drive any class of motor vehicle that your licence permits.
The Australian Capital Territory licensing pathway includes several stages: the pre-learner licence course, the learner licence, the provisional licence, and finally the full licence. Each stage is designed to help drivers build confidence, understanding of road rules, and safe driving skills before driving independently.
You can apply for a full driver licence once you have held your provisional licence for a minimum of three years and have not been suspended, disqualified, or cancelled during that time.
The eligibility requirements for a full licence in the ACT include:
If you have moved from another state, such as NSW or hold an overseas licence, you must transfer it to an ACT licence within three months of taking up residency in the Territory.
Applications for a full licence are handled by Access Canberra. You can apply in person at an Access Canberra Service Centre or online through the ACT Government website if your details are current.
If your provisional licence is lost, stolen, or expired, you must renew or replace it before applying for a full licence. Replacement cards can be ordered at a service centre or through the Access Canberra website.
Your new full licence will be printed with your photo and posted to your address within two weeks.
If your provisional licence has expired for less than five years, you can renew it by presenting your identity documents and paying the renewal fee. However, if it has expired longer, or if your licence has been cancelled or disqualified, you may need to undertake a driving assessment or provide new knowledge test certificates before progressing.
Drivers who have had their licence suspended or cancelled for serious offences will need to reapply under the ACT driver licensing scheme, which may include re-sitting the hazard perception test or the driving assessment with a government examiner.
Licence fees in the ACT vary depending on the duration and type of licence you choose. Options include one year, three years, or five years. Payment can be made at Access Canberra service centres, online, or by phone using credit or debit cards.
If you are a concession card holder, you may be eligible for discounted fees. Check the latest fee schedule on the official ACT Government website.
When attending an Access Canberra Service Centre, bring:
Make sure you arrive early for your appointment, as you may not be able to sit the test or complete your application if you are more than 10 minutes late.
A full licence must be renewed before its expiry date to remain valid. Access Canberra will send a renewal notice before your licence expires. You can renew your licence online, in person, or by post.
If your licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through Access Canberra by completing the driver licence application form, presenting proof of identity, and paying the replacement fee.
Failing to renew or carry a valid licence may result in fines or restrictions on your ability to drive.
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for a full licence, you may need to remain on your provisional licence for a longer period. The ACT Government may also require you to complete additional road safety courses, assessments, or tests before approving your full licence application.
Applicants who fail to provide correct documentation or proof of residency will be asked to reapply once all conditions are met.
In most cases, no. You only need to sit another driving assessment or knowledge test if your licence has expired for several years or was cancelled.
Yes. You can renew online through the ACT Government website as long as your details are current and your licence has not expired for more than five years.
You must transfer your licence within three months of moving to another state.
No. Once you obtain your full licence, you can remove your P plates.
Yes, if required by Access Canberra. This ensures you meet the vision standards to drive safely.
Yes. Your ACT driver’s licence is valid across all Australian states and territories.
At LTrent Driving School, we help drivers at every stage of their learning journey, from the pre-learner licence course through to obtaining a full licence in the ACT. Our ACT-accredited driving instructors focus on developing your confidence, understanding of road rules, and advanced driving techniques.
Whether you are a learner, a provisional driver, or upgrading to a full licence, our team will guide you through the entire process. We help you prepare for assessments, maintain safe habits, and build the driving experience needed to succeed on the road.
Our one-on-one lessons and structured training are designed to help you become a safer and more confident driver. With LTrent, you are not just learning to pass a test; you are learning to drive for life.
Book your driving lessons with LTrent today and take the final step toward earning your full ACT driver’s licence with confidence.
Ready to drive? Book your LTrent lesson now and start building confidence behind the wheel. Call us today to secure your spot and get started.
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