Queensland is a big old state with lots of remote areas that can be difficult to get to and from if you don’t have a car.
While the Translink public transport system is very good, in many parts of the Sunshine State it does operate on a limited basis. This makes it even harder to get around because you are limited to their timetable schedules.
Subsequently, it is important to learn how to drive, as doing so will give you the freedom, independence and ability to venture out and about as you wish.
However, the thought of learning to drive can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to actually taking the driving test.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
If you live in Queensland and want to pass your test on the first try, this guide will give you insight into how best to do that.
Understand the Process
In order to work towards passing your driving test, it is good to gain an early appreciation of what is involved in doing so.
The first thing you’ll need to do is get your learner licence, which will require you to pass a written test on road rules. You have to be a minimum of 16 years old to do this and also pay the licence fee. At present, this is $75 for three years.
Once you have your learner licence, you can start to learn to drive. You will need to complete at least 100 hours of supervised driving, of which a minimum of 10 hours must be at night if you are under 25. This needs to be logged in the official Queensland Learner Logbook app or on the paper version.
When you have done this, you will be able to book your driving test.
How to pass your driving test first time
Now that you understand how to pass your driving test in Queensland the first time around, let’s take a deeper dive into what this actually involves.
1. Learn the Road Rules
Although most states are similar in their legislation, Queensland has its own set of road rules. Therefore, it is imperative to fully understand them if you want to pass both your written and practical driving tests.
Make sure you take the time to familiarise yourself with the Queensland Road Rules Handbook. You could also take a few online quizzes or ask a parent or friend to test your knowledge.
In particular, you should be aware of the speed limits in different areas, the rules around give-way and stop signs, how to merge lanes and overtake safely, and the parking regulations.
2. Take Professional Driving Lessons
While it is good to brush up your driving skills with a parent or responsible friend, you should take lessons with a professional driving instructor in the first instance.
A licensed instructor knows exactly what the test will involve and can teach you good habits, as well as advanced techniques like reverse parking, hill starts, and lane changes.
To find an experienced one that comes highly recommended, check out Ezlicence to book driving lessons in your area.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice!
As mentioned, you will need to build up 100 hours of supervised driving before you can take a driving test. Therefore, you must do a lot of practice.
This can take you the best part of three to six months to do if you are only driving a maximum of an hour or two at a time.
When doing this, it is a good idea initially to drive around business or parks and university campuses at weekends, when there will be virtually no traffic.
As you gain more confidence, you can move on to quiet suburban streets, country roads, and hinterland areas.
It is good to build up your experience in various conditions, including very early in the morning, during rush hour and late at night.
Prior to your test, you might want to drive along the Bruce Highway or another main thoroughfare to get a feel for those types of roads.
4. Book your driving test
When you feel you are ready to take your practical driving test, you can apply to do so.
Here are some more details on how you can do that.
5. Take the Practical Driving Test
Once you have received the date of your driving test, you should ramp up the practice in the couple of weeks before it. You may even want to book a one—or two-hour driving lesson with your instructor just before it to help you prepare better.
Aim to get to the test centre at least 15 minutes before your scheduled test time to ensure a late arrival does not fluster you.
The driving test usually takes around 30 minutes, during which time it is important to stay calm.
It is worth remembering that your examiner is not there to fail you. Instead, they are looking for signs that you are capable of driving responsibly on Queensland roads under the rules imposed by state legislation.
Therefore, make them aware that you can smoothly handle the vehicle in terms of accelerating, braking, and steering. You should also regularly check your mirrors and blind spots, stay in the correct lane, avoid drifting, and make quick and safe decisions.
Most importantly, when the instructor asks you to do something, you should do it as soon as it at the first available safe opportunity.
Don’t drive as if you are competing in the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500!
