Getting your learner’s permit (Ls) and probationary licence (Ps) in Victoria comes with several costs, including fees for driving tests, appointment bookings, licence renewals, and permit reissues. These expenses can vary depending on whether you’re applying for the first time or updating an existing licence.
Understanding these charges in advance is important so you can plan your budget and avoid any surprises along the way.
In this guide, we break down how much Ls and Ps cost in Victoria, covering all the key fees you need to know as you move through each stage of the licensing process.
Highlights
- First-time learner permits (Ls) and probationary licences (P1 and P2) are currently issued at no cost in Victoria.
- Reissuing or renewing Ls and Ps incurs fees ranging from $28.60 for learner permits to $125.20 for 4-year probationary licences.
- Most practical and in-person tests include a separate appointment fee, which is charged again if you reschedule.
- Young drivers under 25 may be eligible for the Free Licence Scheme or other discounts, helping reduce overall costs for obtaining and maintaining a licence.
What Are the Fees for New Ls and Ps in Victoria?
| Type | Amount |
| Learner permit (Ls) | Free |
| Probationary P1 | Free |
| Probationary P2 | Free |
What Are the Costs to Renew or Reissue an L or P Licence?
If your learner permit or probationary licence expires, is cancelled, or needs to be replaced, VicRoads applies specific renewal and reissue fees.
| Type of Licence Update | When This Fee Applies | Cost |
| Learner Permit Replacement | When an L permit needs to be reissued after expiry or cancellation | $28.60 |
| Probationary Licence (P1 or P2) – Short Term | Renewal or reissue for a 3-year period | $94.00 |
| Probationary Licence (P1 or P2) – Long Term | Renewal or reissue for a 4-year period | $125.20 |
| Free Licence Option | Available to eligible drivers under 25 | $0 |
Certain licence fees for learner permits and probationary licences may not apply if the driver qualifies for approved discount programs, helping reduce the overall cost of getting or holding a licence. These exemptions are designed to support safer driving behaviour and make licensing more affordable.
In cases where a licence or permit needs to be issued again due to a break in holding a valid licence, additional steps may be required. Longer gaps without a valid licence can lead to further assessment requirements before a new licence is granted, ensuring drivers still meet safety standards.
What Are the Test and Appointment Fees for Ls and Ps?
| Test Type | Requirement | Fee (AUD) |
| Car Learner Permit Test – Online | First attempt | Free |
| Further attempts | $27.90 | |
| Car Learner Permit Test – In Person | In-person test | $27.90 |
| Appointment booking | $21.50 | |
| Hazard Perception Test – Online | First attempt | Free |
| Further attempts | $21.30 | |
| Hazard Perception Test – In Person | In-person test | $21.30 |
| Appointment booking | $21.50 | |
| Car Practical Driving Test | Practical test | $51.80 |
| Appointment fee | $21.50 |
| Action | Fee (AUD) | Notes |
| Change test appointment | $21.50 | Fee charged again on rebooking |
| Cancel test and rebook | $21.50 + test fee | Both appointment and test fees must be paid again |
Conclusion
While getting your Ls and Ps in Victoria can be affordable, especially for first-time applicants, additional costs may arise through tests, appointment bookings, renewals, and reissues.
Knowing these fees in advance allows you to plan confidently and move through each stage of the licensing process without financial surprises. Always check your eligibility for discounts and renew on time to avoid extra charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I haven’t held a licence for several years?
If you haven’t held a licence for over five years, you may need to retake tests before reissuing your licence.
How long is my learner’s permit valid before I need to renew it?
A learner permit is typically valid for up to 12 months. If it expires before you progress to a probationary licence, a renewal fee will apply.
Are licence fees the same for cars, motorcycles, and heavy vehicles?
Licence issue fees may be similar, but testing and assessment costs can differ depending on the vehicle type, especially for motorcycle and heavy vehicle licences, which may involve accredited providers.