Visitors (Short-Term Stay)

If you're in Australia temporarily, you can usually drive using your international licence as long as it''s valid.

Most states allow you to drive on your overseas licence if you:

• are visiting for a short stay
• hold a current international licence
• carry an English translation or International Driving Permit (if your licence isn't in English)

Visitors generally do not need to apply for an Australian licence unless they decide to stay longer.

Temporary Visa Holders

If you're living in Australia on a temporary visa (student, work, bridging, etc.), most states allow you to drive on your international licence for a limited period.

Common rules across states include:

• You may drive on your international licence for a set time after arriving (often 3-6 months).
• After that period, you may need to convert to a local licence if you continue living in that state.
• Driving after the allowed period without converting is considered unlicensed driving, which carries penalties.

Because each state sets its own timeframe, it's important to check the rules for the state or territory you live in.

Permanent Residents and Citizens

If you become an Australian permanent resident or citizen, all states require you to convert your international licence to a local licence within a set period after arriving.

This timeframe is usually between 3 to 6 months, depending on the state.

After that, you must hold a local licence to continue driving legally.

🇳🇿 New Zealand Licence Holders

New Zealand licence holders are generally treated differently from other international drivers.

Across most states:

• You can drive temporarily on your NZ licence
• You must convert to a local licence if you take up residence
• The conversion process is usually simpler and may not require testing

State-by-State Differences

Australia has eight licensing authorities:

• New South Wales (NSW)
• Victoria (VIC)
• Queensland (QLD)
• Western Australia (WA)
• South Australia (SA)
• Tasmania (TAS)
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
• Northern Territory (NT)

Each one sets its own rules for:

• how long you can drive on an international licence
• when you must convert
• whether you need to take a test
• what documents you must provide

Your exact requirements depend on where you live, not where you entered Australia.

Need Help Getting Ready to Drive in Australia?

AnyLicence supports international drivers with:

• refresher lessons
• local road rule preparation
• test-ready driving packages
• instructors who understand the needs of new arrivals
• flexible booking and multilingual support (depending on instructor)

How to get started

👉 Step 1: Choose your lesson or package

👉 Step 2: Book online with AnyLicence

We'll help you feel confident, safe, and ready for Australian roads — no matter which state you're in.