Introduction
If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or if you hold a New Zealand driver licence, you can drive in NSW on an overseas licence for 3 months. Within this 3-month period however, you'll need to visit a Service NSW Centre and transfer your overseas licence to a NSW Driver Licence.
You may need to pass a knowledge or driving test, depending on where your overseas licence was issued.
Drivers 75 years or older are required to undergo a medical review and may need to take a practical driving test.
If you're a temporary visa holder or you cannot provide proof of permanent residency, you can apply for a NSW licence as a temporary overseas visitor.
Note: Holders of licences from certain countries may be required to obtain a validation letter from the relevant consulate or licensing authority. For information regarding validation requirements, please call 13 77 88 or visit a service centre.
What you need
- the PDF form – 'Licence Application'
- your proof of identity
- your original overseas licence – if your licence is:
- not in English, a Transport for NSW-approved translation
- not available, an authorisation letter (in English) from the issuing country
- your licence validation letter (if applicable)
- your proof of Australian permanent residency
- your payment.
If applicable:
- a knowledge test
- a driving test
- a 'fitness to drive' medical
- your contact lenses or glasses.
Acceptable translations
If your licence or letter is not in English, you must provide a translation.
Transport for NSW only accepts translations from:
- Multicultural NSW
- Department of Home Affairs
- Consulate-General of the Republic of Korea – for driver licences issued in the Republic of Korea
- Taipei Economic and Cultural Office – for driver licences issued in the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Note: You must provide the original translation document. Photocopies are not accepted.
How to transfer
- Select the 'Download a PDF form' button.
- Complete the form and gather your supporting documents.
- Visit a service centre and provide the information in person.
Payment methods
More information
- Renewal notices are mailed generally within 6 weeks of the card's expiry date. This means you have plenty of time to plan ahead and renew early.