If you’ve recently moved to New South Wales and need to convert your overseas driver’s licence, the process may seem complex—but we’re here to simplify it for you. Whether you hold a recognised licence that can be converted without a test or need to pass a knowledge test, this guide breaks down each step to ensure you meet all requirements. Follow our easy steps to get on the road legally and confidently in NSW.
Disclaimer: Information is subject to change; for the latest updates, please visit nsw.gov.au.
Step 1: Confirm which type of licence you have
Step 2: I know my licence type…which test do I have to do?
Step 3: What you need to be aware of for the driving test
Step 4: How do I make sure I pass my driving test?
Permanent Australian residents or permanent visa holders
What is the process to get my licence?
Exemptions from the driving test
You’ll need to do the Driver’s Knowledge Test (DKT) AND a Driving test to progress onto a full or provisional licence.
Want to ace your Driver Knowledge Test? Get our practice guide here.
This is the easiest step – book a lesson with us!
Our driving instructors are experts in driving and the driving test. We have helped thousands of overseas licensed students to pass their test first attempt. We’ll help guide you throughout this tricky process and give you tips about driving on Australian roads.
If you’re still confused just give us a call on 02 8748 4500 – we’re happy to help!
If you have a full driver’s licence from overseas, you’re able to drive with this licence for your first three months as a resident or permanent visa holder – after this you won’t be able to drive until you get your licence converted. You can also convert your licence during these three months if you’re keen to get your NSW licence as soon as possible.
You will need to:
Bring your overseas licence
Provide proof of your identity
Provide proof of Australian permanent residency
Complete the Licence application form
Pass an eyesight test
Pass a knowledge test unless you are exempt
Pass a driving test unless you are exempt
Pay the relevant licence fee
Once this is completed, you will then be able to obtain a full NSW Licence. You will not be able to hold more than one licence in Australia so your overseas licence will not be valid in NSW.
If you fail a driving test, your visiting driving privileges will be withdrawn. If you still want to continue to drive, you must get a learner’s licence. You can only re attempt the test after 1 week.
If you plan to stay in NSW for longer than three months but do not hold a permanent Australian residency, you can apply for a Temporary Overseas Visitor Licence.
If your licence meets these requirements you then don’t have to do any computer or driving test in order to convert your licence – just go to your local RMS and get it converted on the spot!
You do not need to get a NSW drivers licence if you follow these conditions:
Austria
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Canada (any State)
Croatia
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Guernsey
Ireland
Isle of Man (licences issued since 1 April 1991)
Italy
Japan
Jersey
Luxembourg
Malta (licences issued or renewed since 2 January 2004)
Netherlands
New Zealand, (except for paper licences)
Norway
Portugal
Singapore
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
United States of America (any State).
If you hold a licence issued by a country or jurisdiction not listed, you will need to pass knowledge and driving tests when applying for an equivalent NSW licence.
Disclaimer: Requirements are subject to change. Please visit the NSW government’s official website to find the most relevant information.
Austria
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Canada (any State)
Croatia
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Guernsey
Ireland
Isle of Man (licences issued since 1 April 1991)
Italy
Japan
Jersey
Luxembourg
Malta (licences issued or renewed since 2 January 2004)
Netherlands
New Zealand, (except for paper licences)
Norway
Portugal
Singapore
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
United States of America (any State).
Bulgaria
Republic of Cyprus
Czech Republic
Estonia
Hong Kong (Important: Hong Kong licence holders must have held a Hong Kong licence for a minimum period of 12 months)
Hungary
Latvia
Lithuania
Poland
Romania
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea (Republic of Korea)
Taiwan
Any countries not listed in Recognised Foreign Licensing Authority A, B or not within the specified dates of validity.
Testimonials
We value the driving experience of our students. Here’s what they have to say.
"LTrent has been the absolute best. Really encouraging and super helpful, I feel like my driving has improved drastically in a reality short amount of time!"
Nicky, 18
Pymble, NSW
"LTrent Driving School gave me the confidence to feel comfortable on Sydney roads"
Janine
Cronulla, NSW
"My LTrent Driving Instructor was amazing and made the entire experience fun and stress free"
Sonali
Erina, NSW
"After just a few lessons I passed the test first go with a 100% score!"
Ciara, 17
Manly, NSW
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