Online testing for learner drivers
Gippslanders will be the first to sit their learner’s permit test without leaving home, with the state government launching the new learner permit test online.
The online program was launched last week, giving 500 prospective learner drivers from the Gippsland region who have existing test appointments to sit the new test online.
The new test includes a mix of theory, interactive videos and visual graphics to reinforce road safety messages.
The learners’ knowledge is tested through a number of learning modules focusing on road safety education including speed, drink and drug driving, seatbelts, fatigue, distractions and road rules.
Roads and Road Safety Minister Ben Carroll said the new course and assessment model provided new drivers with the best possible knowledge before they get behind the wheel.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said where a person lived shouldn’t be a barrier to being able to develop the skills and knowledge needed to obtain their learner’s permit and learn to drive safely.
To access the test, customers will need to create a myVicRoads personal account, pay a small test fee and have access to a compatible device.
The entire course and test will take between four and six hours to complete with prospective learners having 12 months to sit and pass the online test once they’ve registered.
When the online course and assessment has been successfully completed, learner drivers will need to attend a VicRoads customer service centre to confirm their identity, have their photo taken and complete an eyesight check.
After the initial group of learners completes the test, it will roll out from early May to 1000 applicants each week who also have existing appointments booked across both metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
The test will be available to all customers from late June removing barriers people face to getting their learner’s permit like transport, distance from a testing centre and limited appointment times.
Customers will still be able to sit the existing learner permit test at VicRoads centres – and those requiring interpreter services support will still need to sit the test in-person.