Getting your driver’s licence in QLD means more independence on the road. This guide explains the four stages of the Graduated Licensing Scheme and what you need to do at each step to progress safely and confidently.
Getting Your QLD Learner Licence
Getting Your P1 Licence
Getting Your P2 Licence
QLD Open Licence
Interstate and Overseas Licences
Obtaining a driving licence in Queensland follows a structured process through Transport and Main Roads. The pathway has several stages. You begin with a learner licence, progress to a P1 licence, then a P2 licence, and finally reach the open licence. Each stage helps you build experience, understand road rules and prepare for the responsibilities of driving on Queensland roads.
This guide explains each step and outlines what you need to do to move forward with confidence.
The learner’s licence is the starting point. This stage focuses on building core road knowledge and preparing you for supervised practice on the road.
To obtain your learner’s licence, you must either complete PrepL or pass the written road rules test. PrepL is an online interactive program that covers road rules, hazard awareness and safe driving behaviour. The written test assesses similar knowledge but is completed at a TMR customer service centre.
Once you pass the PrepL or the written test, you can apply for a learner’s licence that is valid for three years. You must meet identity criteria, be at least sixteen, pay the fee and provide all required documents.
Learners must follow strict conditions to stay safe and gain experience.
This stage is all about building a solid foundation. Learners are encouraged to practise in a range of conditions, including night driving, wet weather, motorways and busy urban areas.
Once you have held your learner’s licence for at least twelve months and completed your logbook, you can progress to your P1 licence.
Before attempting your practical test, you must pass the Hazard Perception Test. This is an online test that presents real traffic scenarios and checks how well you can identify and respond to hazards.
After passing the HPT, you can book your practical test with Transport and Main Roads. The test examines your ability to control the vehicle, follow road rules, manage traffic situations and demonstrate safe driving decisions.
On passing, you will be issued a P1 licence. It includes several key rules.
After holding your P1 licence for at least twelve months, you can move to a P2 licence. There is no test required for this upgrade, but your driving record must meet the criteria set by TMR.
P2 licence rules include the following.
Once you have held your P2 licence for the required time and meet all eligibility rules, you can apply for your open licence. This stage removes the provisional limits and allows you to drive without P plates.
You must meet age requirements, hold your P2 licence for the minimum period and pay the relevant fee to upgrade. No extra tests are required for this step.
Open licence holders can supervise learners, drive without P plates and access a wider range of vehicles unless a specific condition is listed on the licence.
If you have moved to Queensland from interstate or overseas, you may be able to convert your licence.
You must apply for a Queensland licence within three months of moving. Service history from your previous state may allow you to move directly to an open licence.
Transport and Main Roads can confirm your eligibility before you apply.
Working through the QLD licensing stages can feel complex, yet the right support makes the journey far smoother. LTrent Driving School provides structured training that helps learners progress with confidence, from early lessons right through to the practical test.
Our instructors guide you through vehicle control, night driving, hazard awareness and real road scenarios. The aim is to help you pass your tests while becoming a safer and more capable driver for life.
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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