Licensing and Learner Obligations
Core concepts
Victoria uses a graduated licensing system: learner permit, then probationary licence (P1, then P2), then full licence. A learner must be at least 16, pass the knowledge test and eyesight test, and hold the permit for a minimum period before attempting the hazard perception test and driving test. Learners must display L plates clearly, be supervised by a fully licensed driver, and carry their permit when driving.
Logbook and restrictions
Learners must record a minimum number of supervised driving hours, including a set number of night hours, in an approved logbook. Probationary drivers face restrictions on peer passengers, mobile phone use (hands-free only for P2, none for P1), and a zero blood alcohol concentration. Understand demerit points: accumulating too many results in suspension, and the thresholds differ between learner, probationary and full licence holders.
Traps
Questions often test the logbook requirement details, the exact night-hour component, and whether a particular supervisor is eligible. Another trap is assuming a learner can drive unsupervised "briefly" - never permitted. Watch for questions on licence suspension after demerit points, and on whether an interstate or overseas licence converts directly. Alcohol and drug obligations overlap here: a zero BAC applies to learners and probationary drivers, and refusing a test carries serious penalties.
Rule of thumb
If a question asks whether a learner may do something, the answer is usually no unless a fully licensed supervisor is present and the conditions are met.
Vehicle, Alcohol and Drug Obligations
Core concepts
Every driver must ensure their vehicle is roadworthy: tyres with adequate tread and correct pressure, working lights, brakes, seatbelts and a clear windscreen. Loads must be secured and not obscure vision or lights. Seatbelt rules apply to all occupants, and children must use an approved restraint appropriate to their age and size.
Alcohol and drugs
Victoria enforces a zero BAC for learners and probationary drivers, and a general limit for full licence holders. Police may conduct random breath tests and drug tests at any time. Refusing a test is an offence with penalties similar to or exceeding a high-range reading. Drug driving laws cover illicit drugs and, importantly, driving impaired by prescription or over-the-counter medication. Read medicine labels for warnings about drowsiness and driving.
Traps
Common traps include assuming a small amount of alcohol is acceptable for a learner (it is not), and believing that coffee, water or time in the car reduces BAC - only time metabolises alcohol. Another trap is the belief that a prescription medication is automatically safe to drive with; the warning label governs. Questions also test whether a passenger can be booked for not wearing a seatbelt - the driver is responsible for ensuring seatbelts are worn.
Worked example
A P1 driver has two drinks at dinner and feels fine. The correct answer is that any BAC above zero is an offence; feeling fine is irrelevant. The safe rule is no alcohol at all on a probationary or learner licence.