Learner and P-Plate Rules QLD

Navigating the road to getting a Queensland driver's licence involves understanding the specific learner and P-plate rules. This comprehensive guide outlines the key regulations and steps involved in this journey.

Obtaining a Learner Licence in QLD

To begin driving in Queensland, the first step is to obtain a learner licence. Eligibility criteria for a learner licence require the individual to be at least 16 years old and medically fit to drive. The process for obtaining a learner licence involves passing a road rules knowledge assessment, which can be completed either online through the PrepL course or in person at a transport and motoring service centre. The PrepL course, an interactive online program, can be enrolled in a month before turning 16, giving you ample time to get prepared and complete it. It's important to note that the learner's licence is valid for three years but is susceptible to suspension if the learner accumulates four or more demerit points within a 12-month period.

L-Plate Rules QLD

Learner drivers must adhere to specific restrictions to ensure their safety and that of others. These include the requirement of driving with a supervisor who has held a full car licence for at least one year. Learners must display L-plates on the vehicle and maintain a zero blood alcohol concentration. For those under 25, the use of mobile phones, including hands-free and loudspeaker functions, is strictly prohibited, a restriction that extends to supervisors and passengers, who also cannot use their phones on loudspeaker. Accumulating four or more demerit points within a year results in a three-month suspension of your learner licence.

Learners Licence Requirements QLD

Under Queensland regulations, learner drivers under 25 must complete 100 hours of supervised driving, which includes 10 hours of night driving. These hours must be recorded in the Queensland Learner Logbook. Additionally, learners are required to pass an online hazard perception test, which becomes available six months after obtaining the learner's licence. This test is a prerequisite for advancing to the P1 (red Ps) driving test.

Obtaining a P1 Provisional Licence (Red P-Plates) in QLD

To progress to a P1 provisional licence, one must be at least 17 years old and have held a learner licence for a minimum of 12 months. This stage also requires the completion of 100 logged driving hours and passing the hazard perception test. The practical driving test is a critical component for obtaining the P1 licence, which is issued to drivers under 25 years of age.

QLD P-Plate Rules

P1 Licence Restrictions in QLD

Like a learner licence, holding a P1 licence comes with its own set of restrictions. Drivers are required to display red P-plates and adhere to a zero alcohol limit, while the use of mobile phones while driving is forbidden, a rule that also extends to passengers regarding loudspeaker functions. P1 drivers are also restricted from driving high-powered vehicles and carrying more than one passenger under 21 who is not an immediate family member between 11pm and 5am. Accumulating four or more demerit points in a year leads to a choice between suspension and a good driving behaviour period.

Transition to P2 Provisional Licence (Green P-Plates) in QLD

Advancing to a green P-plate licence typically occurs after holding the red Ps for 12 months. However, individuals who are at least 25 years old when passing the practical driving test can obtain a P2 licence straight away. A significant change from the P1 licence is the removal of passenger restrictions and permission to use a hands-free mobile phone.

P2 Licence Restrictions QLD

The P2 licence (also known as your green p-plates), while less restrictive than the P1, still comes with a number of restrictions and crucial safety measures. Green P-plates must be displayed, and drivers are not allowed to operate high-powered vehicles. Similar to the P1, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.

Obtaining a Full Licence QLD

The final step towards full driving privileges in Queensland requires holding a P2 provisional licence for 24 months, or 12 months for those over 24 years old. Successfully meeting this requirement allows drivers to graduate to a full licence, signifying their readiness and responsibility on the road.

These regulations in Queensland are designed to ensure new drivers are adequately prepared and responsible for driving a car, gradually easing them into full driving privileges while prioritizing road safety for themselves and others. Compliance with these rules is not only a legal requirement but also a step towards becoming a safe and competent driver.

Hit the Road with Only Cars

Now that you have a clear idea of the requirements and restrictions for each licence type in Queensland, get ready to hit the road with Only Cars. For more information on applying for, renewing or replacing a licence, as well as information on the different licence types, visit the Queensland government transport licensing page by clicking here. For licensing restrictions and requirements for your state, read our other guides today. 

If you'd like to know more about other state laws, select your preference from the list below:

Australian Licence Laws

Learner and P-Plate Rules WA

Learner and P-Plate Rules ACT

Learner and P-Plate Rules Tasmania

Learner and P-Plate Rules SA

Learner and P-Plate Rules NT

Learner and P-Plate Rules Victoria

Learner and P-Plate Rules NSW

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