Table of Contents
UK licence holders can usually convert their driving licence to an Australian licence without taking a driving test. Australia recognises UK licensing standards, so in most states and territories the process involves paperwork, an eyesight check, and a fee, completed after arrival.
Can I Drive in Australia on a UK Driving Licence?
Yes, you can drive in Australia on a full UK driving licence for a limited time.
Most Australian states allow new arrivals to drive on a full UK driving licence for a short period after entering the country.
Key points:
- UK licences are in English, so no translation or International Driving Permit is required
- This allowance is temporary
- If you live in Australia long-term, you’ll need to convert to an Australian licence
This is why most UK migrants convert their licence once they’ve settled.
Do UK Drivers Need to Take a Driving Test in Australia?
Most UK drivers do not need to take a driving test to get an Australian licence.
If you hold a full UK driving licence, conversion is usually test-free.
If you hold a full UK driving licence, you can normally convert it without:
- a theory test
- a practical driving test
You may be asked to complete a simple eyesight check at the licensing office.
A test is only required in limited situations, such as:
- an expired UK licence
- a provisional or recently issued licence
- medical or licensing conditions
For most UK drivers, the process is paperwork only.
How Do I Convert a UK Driving Licence to an Australian One?
The process is straightforward. In most states, you will:
- Visit the state transport office in person
- Present your UK driving licence, passport, visa, and proof of address
- Complete an eyesight check (if required)
- Pay the licence fee
In many cases, your Australian licence is approved the same day, with the card issued shortly after.
How Long Can I Use My UK Licence Before Changing It?
There is no single national rule.
Each Australian state sets its own timeframe, but in practice:
- You don’t need to convert immediately on arrival
- You do need to convert if you become a resident
- Rules are enforced at state level, not federally
To avoid any uncertainty, many UK drivers convert their licence early.
We have links below to the websites of the Australian states for more information, but here is a quick guide;
| State | Timeframe |
| New South Wales (NSW) | 3 Months |
| Queensland (QLD) | 3 Months |
| Victoria (VIC) | 6 Months |
| Western Australia (WA) | 3 Months |
| Tasmania (TAS) | 6 Months |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | 3 Months |
| Northern Territory (NT) | 3 Months |
What Australian Licence Will I Receive?
UK licence holders are usually issued a full Australian driving licence.
Your previous driving experience is recognised. You will not be placed on:
- learner plates
- provisional (P-plate) restrictions
Common Issues UK Drivers Run Into
The process is simple, but people sometimes:
- assume a UK licence can be used indefinitely
- wait too long to convert after settling in one state
- worry unnecessarily about retaking driving tests
These are easy to avoid once you know how the system works, and have checked the details for the specific state or territory that you are relocating to.
Official Government Licence Conversion Pages by State/Territory
- New South Wales (NSW): convert driver licence → Service NSW – Convert Overseas Licence
- Queensland (QLD): transfer licence info → QLD Transport & Main Roads – Transferring to a Queensland licence
- Victoria (VIC): overseas licence conversion → VicRoads – Convert Your Overseas Licence
- Western Australia (WA): recognised country transfer → Transport WA – Transfer a Licence from a Recognised Country
- Tasmania (TAS): convert overseas licence → Service Tasmania – Convert Overseas Driver Licence
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): see Access Canberra website
- Northern Territory (NT): see NT Government – Driving/MVR
Common Questions – FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit from the UK?
No. UK licences are accepted in English for both driving and conversion.
Is my Australian licence valid across the country?
Yes. Although issued by a state, it can be used nationwide.
What if I don’t have a full UK licence?
If you’ve never held a full licence, you’ll need to follow Australia’s standard learner process. This does not apply to experienced UK drivers.
What is the cost of converting a UK driving licence to an Australian one?
the cost is typically between AU$50 and AU$140, depending on the state or territory and licence duration. For more detail, see the above section entitled Official Government Licence Conversion Pages by State/Territory.
Bringing Your Vehicle to Australia
Many UK migrants convert their driving licence at the same time they arrange the shipment of their vehicle to Australia.
Autoshippers specialises in shipping cars, motorbikes, and personal vehicles from the UK to Australia. Their team regularly supports customers relocating from the UK and can help you understand how vehicle import rules, registration, and licensing timelines fit together once you arrive.
Planning both your licence conversion and vehicle shipment early can make the transition smoother and help you get back on the road sooner.
