Learner and P-Plate Rules in Tasmania

In Tasmania, acquiring a learner's permit and progressing to a full driver's licence involves a series of stages, each governed by specific rules and regulations. This article outlines the essential regulations and requirements for learner and provisional drivers in Tasmania, providing a comprehensive guide for those embarking on the journey to become licensed drivers.

Obtaining a Learner Licence Tasmania

The journey to obtaining a driver's licence in Tasmania starts at the age of 16, when individuals are eligible to take the driver knowledge test (DKT). This test, which assesses knowledge of Tasmanian road rules and safety, can be taken either online through the Plates Plus course or in person at Service Tasmania. Upon successfully passing the driver knowledge test, individuals are issued a Tasmanian learner licence.

It's important to note that the rules and types of learner licences in Tasmania were updated on December 1, 2020, so those who started their licensing process before this date should refer to specific guidelines applicable to them.

Learner Licence Restrictions in Tasmania

Once a learner licence is obtained, several restrictions apply to ensure the safety of the learner driver and others on the road. These restrictions include:

• L-Plate Display: Learners must display L-plates on the front and rear of their vehicle, making their learner status known to other drivers.
• Supervised Driving: A supervisory driver with a full Australian car licence, held continuously for the past 12 months, must accompany the learner at all times.
• Speed Limit: Learner drivers are restricted to a maximum speed of 90km/h.
• Alcohol and Mobile Phone Use: There is a strict policy of zero alcohol in the bloodstream for learners, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
• Towing Restrictions: Learners are not permitted to tow anything.
• Demerit Points: Accumulating four or more demerit points within 12 months can lead to licence suspension.

Requirements While on a Tasmanian Learner Licence

During the learner phase, drivers are required to log a total of 80 hours of driving, including 15 hours of night driving, over a minimum period of 12 months. Participation in programs such as the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) program can contribute additional hours to the learner's logbook. Moreover, lessons with certified driving instructors and certain free lessons such as Keys2Drive offer the opportunity to gain extra hours towards the required total, subject to certain caps.

Obtaining a P1 Provisional Licence (red P-plates) in Tasmania

Transitioning to a P1 provisional licence requires the learner driver to be at least 17 years old, have completed the necessary logbook hours, and have held the learner licence for a minimum of 12 months. The key step to obtaining a P1 licence is passing a practical driving test, which can be booked with an authorised testing officer. The test assesses various aspects of the driver's driving skills and ability to safely navigate real-world driving scenarios.

P1 Licence Restrictions in Tasmania

P1 licence holders face certain restrictions to ensure their continued development as safe and responsible drivers. These include:

• P-Plate Display: Red P-plates must be displayed on the vehicle, including on the rear of any trailer being towed.
• Speed Limit: The maximum speed limit is 100km/h, where permitted.
• Alcohol and Mobile Phone Usage: Zero tolerance for alcohol and prohibition on using mobile phones while driving.
• Passenger Limitations: P1 licence holders are restricted from driving with more than one peer passenger aged between 16 and 21 years, with certain exemptions.
• Transmission Type: Licence restrictions vary depending on whether the practical test was taken in a manual or automatic vehicle.
• Demerit Points: Suspension is possible for accruing four or more demerit points within 12 months.

Obtaining a Tasmanian P2 Provisional Licence (green P-plates)

After holding a P1 licence for 12 continuous months without any restart offences, disqualifications, or suspensions, drivers automatically progress to a P2 licence. This transition does not necessitate a separate licence card, as the licence automatically renews provided it is current.

Tasmanian P2 Licence Restrictions

P2 drivers enjoy fewer restrictions compared to P1 drivers:

• P-Plate Display: Green P-plates must be displayed on the vehicle.
• Alcohol Consumption: A zero alcohol policy remains in effect.
• Demerit Points: The limit of less than four demerit points within 12 months still applies.
• Peer Passenger Restrictions: None, allowing P2 drivers to follow the same speed and mobile phone laws as full licence holders.

Obtaining a Full Driver's Licence

The duration required to hold a P2 licence before progressing to a full licence depends on the driver's age at the time of obtaining the P2 licence. The required holding period ranges from one to two years, based on whether the driver is below or above 23 years of age at the time of receiving the P2 licence.

The structured approach to licensing in Tasmania ensures that new drivers acquire the necessary experience and skills in a safe and controlled manner. Adherence to these rules and regulations is crucial for learner licence holders and provisional drivers as they work towards full licence privileges, ensuring their safety and the safety of other road users. Compliance with these guidelines is key to becoming a responsible and competent driver in Tasmania.

Start Your Journey with OnlyCars.com.au

Now you know what is required to progress through Tasmania's graduated licensing system, it's time to start your journey with OnlyCars.com.au. For more information on the various licence types, Plates Plus course, and hazard perception test, head to the Tasmanian government's Plates Plus website by clicking this link. And if you'd like to find out 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 SA

Learner and P-Plate Rules NT

Learner and P-Plate Rules Victoria

Learner and P-Plate Rules NSW

Learner and P-Plate Rules QLD

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