Introduction

You can apply for a provisional P1 driver licence if you've held a NSW learner licence for the required period of time, and passed the necessary tests. You can also apply if you've passed the driving test as a holder of an interstate learner licence, provisional licence or an overseas licence.

Applications for the licence are made at a service centre, and if you wish you can apply for a NSW Photo Card at the same time, and take advantage of paying a reduced application fee for it.

Eligibility

You must:

  • be at least 17 years of age
  • have held a learner licence for at least 12 months (if you're aged between 17 and 24)
  • have logged the required driving hours
  • have passed the Hazard Perception Test (HPT).

If you're 25 or older you can attempt the HPT and driving test at any time after obtaining your learner licence.

Note: If you live with disability, make sure you've talked with your doctor about a possible Occupational Therapist driving assessment before you apply for your P1 licence at the service centre. You may be eligible to undertake a Disability driving test.

What you need

  • the PDF form – 'Licence Application'
  • your current learner licence
  • proof of identity documents (if applicable)
  • your contact lenses or glasses (if you wear them)
  • an Occupational Therapist assessment report (if applicable)
  • your concession card details (if applicable)
  • your payment.

How to apply

  1. Select the 'Download PDF form' button.
  2. Complete the form.
  3. Check the tick box to apply for a Photo Card (if applicable).
  4. Gather the required documents.
  5. Take the completed form, required documents and contact lenses or glasses (if you wear them) to a service centre and lodge your application with your payment.

More information

  • You must not use any function of a mobile phone while you're driving or riding. This includes when you're waiting at lights, or stuck in traffic, and means texting, hands-free, speaker mode and GPS functions. The only time you can use your mobile is when you're safely parked out of the line of traffic.
  • If you're aged between 17 and 24 you must have held your learner licence for at least 12 months, but you're allowed to attempt the HPT after 10 months.
  • The Photo Card is voluntary – you don't have to have one, but you may find it useful to prove your identity in situations not related to driving.
  • Renewal notices are posted generally within 6 weeks of the card's expiry date.
  • For driver licence renewals or applications, a receipt is provided that allows you to drive until the card arrives in the post. The receipt is valid for 2 months.

Payment methods

You can review transaction payment options on our payment methods page.

Last updated: 1 October 2024

Rate the information on the page