Rules for learner drivers
There are special rules that apply to learner drivers. These rules are designed to keep you safe while you’re building your driving skills.
In addition to following the NSW Road Rules, you must:
Only drive cars
Be supervised at all times by the holder of a full (not learner or provisional) Australian driver licence
Have L plates displayed (black L on an orange/yellow background) clearly at the front and back of the vehicle, on the outside, or an L sign on the roof, when driving. The letter L on the plate must not be hidden
Observe a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h, and observe the posted speed limit where it is below 90km/h
Not tow any other vehicle
Not exceed zero blood alcohol concentration. This means you cannot have any alcohol in your system when you drive a vehicle. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs
Not supervise another learner driver
Only carry the number of passengers that can be properly seated in seats and restrained by approved seat belts or child restraints
Only drive vehicles that have a seat belt fitted to the driver’s position, and you must wear the seat belt
Not use any mobile phone, including hands-free devices or loud speaker, while driving, or while your vehicle is stopped, but not parked.
If in Sydney, not drive in Parramatta Park or Centennial Park.
Failure to comply is an offence and carries heavy penalties, including loss of licence.
You must comply with these NSW rules when you are driving interstate or overseas. You should also make yourself aware of any licensing or driving laws that another jurisdiction may apply to you as a visiting novice driver.
Demerit points apply to learner drivers.
Your learner licence will be suspended or refused, if you reach or exceed 4 demerit points in a three year period.