It is mandatory for all licence holders in NSW over 75 years of age to undertake a medical examination on an annual basis in order to maintain a driver licence. An on-road driving assessment is required every two years from 85 years of age to maintain an unrestricted licence.
Heavy vehicle (MC) licence holders need an annual Driving Test from age 70.
Studies show that many older drivers compensate for their age-related decline in driving competency by self-restricting and limiting their driving, for example, by driving in local areas or avoiding complex, difficult situations.
If an older driver no longer requires a full driver licence, they can opt for a modified licence without the need for a practical driving assessment. A modified licenceallows theholder to drive in their local area where they are familiar with the traffic conditions. The limits on the modified licence are negotiated with the local service centre manager, based on the driver’s essential weekly journeys.
A modified licence cannot be issued if a general practitioner has requested the licence holder to undertake an aged driving test.
I just want to thank you for your patience and understanding when it came to my driving lessons. You were so informative while on the road. Other than my family you were very supportive and helpful all the way from lessons to me sitting the driving test. I can’t thank you enough any person lucky to click on your sight to book lessons will be rewarded with not only good prices but a happy easy going driving instructor.
Almost 500 customers will earn their keys to the road each week with Service NSW’s new dedicated driver testing centre opening in Sydney’s west.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government said the facility at 75-105 Mamre Road, St Marys would boost the number of driving tests completed each week after impacts caused by COVID-19 restrictions.
“The centre will offer more than 450 driving tests each week for customers as well as more than 1000 computer-based examinations including driver knowledge tests,” Mr Dominello said.
“Whether customers are trying to get their L Plates or aiming to graduate to their P Plates, the centre will get more customers out on the road sooner.”
“The NSW Government is investing $3.47 million into the St Marys Driver Testing Centre, a new Mobile Testing Centre and the creation of jobs to help tackle the testing backlog.”
“More than 38 staff including 20 driver testers will work across the St Marys Driver Testing Centre and Mobile Testing Centre to conduct testing and assist customers with their transactions.”
Mr Dominello said the new Mobile Testing Centre, a 12.5-metre-long bus, is due to be operational from late October 2022 and would support customers across Sydney.
“The vehicle which has the capacity to include up to 10 computers for knowledge testing and facilitate driver testing would be deployed to various locations across Sydney where there is a demand for testing,” he said.
“The Mobile Testing Centre would have the capacity to complete up to 350 computer-based examinations and up to 320 driving tests each week for customers.”
“Service NSW appreciates customers’ patience and understanding while the team has worked to get driver testing back on track.”
“COVID-19 safety measures remain in place for driving tests to ensure the safety of staff and customers. Both driver tests and customers are required to wear masks for the duration of the examination.”
The St Marys Driver Testing Centre will be open from 8.00am-4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Yes, ONLY if the phone is either:Secured in a cradle fixed to the vehicle; orCan be operated without touching any part of the phone, (e.g. Bluetooth controls)
No.
Use music or audio functions
Use as a driver’s aid (e.g. navigation, Speed Advisor app or dispatch system)
Yes, ONLY if the phone is secured in a cradle fixed to the vehicle
No.
Access a Digital Driver Licence
Yes, ONLY after a police officer has asked you to do so.
Use wallet functions (make a transaction, show a coupon or voucher, or to access an area)
Yes, ONLY if the vehicle is:Stationary; andOff the road (such as in a carpark, driveway or drive thru)
Illegal mobile phone use
All other functions including video calling, texting, emailing, social media, web browsing and photography are prohibited unless parked.
It is also illegal to hold and use a mobile phone at any time while driving or riding.
Using a Digital Driver Licence
It’s illegal to access your Digital Driver Licence when driving, including when stationary, unless you’re asked to do so by a police officer. Penalties apply.
Learner, P1 and P2 licence holders
Restricted licences holders including learner, P1 and P2 drivers and riders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding. This includes use of hands-free and Bluetooth functions.
Illegal mobile phone use will result in heavy penalties including demerit points and fines, which could mean the loss of your licence.
Tip: Avoid temptation and keep your phone in your bag or glovebox.
Unrestricted licence holders and all bicycle riders
Full licence holders and bicycle riders are permitted to use particular mobile phone functions. These include making or answering a phone call, or playing audio, if the phone:
Is secured in a cradle; or
Can be used without touching any part of the phone (e.g. Bluetooth).
This also includes using a mobile phone as a driver’s aid (e.g. navigation) if the phone is secured in a cradle.
Tip: Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Consider the traffic conditions before using your phone.
Mobile phone detection cameras
The mobile phone detection camera program enforcing illegal mobile phone use by drivers commenced on 1 December 2019.
The program includes fixed and transportable cameras that operate at locations across the network. Coupled with ongoing enforcement by NSW Police, these cameras target illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime.
Warning letters relating to camera-detected offences will be issued for the first three months. Following this period, the penalty for offending drivers is five demerit points and a $344 fine ($457 in a school zone). The penalty increases to 10 demerit points during double demerit periods.
1. Can use my phone to make a call, use GPS or listen to music?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
2. Can I use my phone to make a call, use GPS or listen to music if it’s in a cradle?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
3. Can I use my mobile phone if it is on loudspeaker and in my lap?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
4. Can I use my phone to text?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding, including any texting functions.
5. What do I need to do to use my phone?
If you would like to use your phone for any function – including calling, texting, emailing, playing audio or using social media – your vehicle must be parked out of the line of traffic.
6. Do I need to be parked with my ignition off to use my phone?
To use a mobile phone, you must be parked out of the line of traffic. However, the ignition does not need to be turned off.
7. If I have a Digital Driver Licence and I’m pulled over by NSW Police, when is it OK to pick up my phone to show my licence?
You can only use your mobile phone to access your Digital Driver Licence after being requested to do so by a police officer. It’s illegal to touch your phone before an authorised officer instructs you to do so. For more information on the Digital Driver Licence, please visit the Service NSW website.
8. Am I able to access my mobile phone wallet functions if my vehicle is stationary and off the road?
Yes, if you are required to use a mobile phone wallet function to make a transaction, show a coupon or access an area, then you may do so providing your vehicle is stationary and off the road, such as in a carpark, driveway or drive-thru.
9. Can I use a GPS device that is not a phone?
Yes. A GPS device that is not a mobile phone is permitted for all drivers, as long as the device is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and does not obscure the driver’s view of the road.
10. Will the introduction of mobile phone detection cameras affect me?
Yes, restricted licences holders are not permitted to use their phone while driving or riding. Mobile phone detection cameras enforce illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime across the NSW road network.
11. Is there a warning period for the start of the mobile phone detection camera program?
Yes, warning letters will be issued for the first three months (from 1 December, 2019), during which time drivers caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera will be issued with a warning letter to encourage them to change their behaviour.
Fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who commit an offence after the three-month warning period concludes.
Please note NSW Police provide ongoing police enforcement of illegal mobile phone use.
12. How will I know if I’ve been caught using my phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera?
Warning letters will be issued for the first three months, during which time drivers caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera will be issued with a warning letter to encourage them to change their behaviour.
Fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who commit an offence after the three month warning period has concluded.
13. What is the penalty for being caught for illegal phone use?
The fine for illegal mobile phone use is $344, or $457 if detected in a school zone. There is a five demerit point penalty for illegal mobile phone use, which increases to 10 demerit points during double demerit periods.
Learner and provisional P1 licence holders will exceed their demerit point threshold and lose their licence if caught illegally using their mobile phone. All learner and provisional P1 and P2 licence holders will exceed their demerit point threshold and lose their licence if they are caught using a mobile phone during a double demerit period.
These penalties apply to both camera-detected offences and infringements issued by NSW Police.
14. Do double demerits apply for mobile phone offences detected by a mobile phone detection camera?
Yes, double demerits apply to mobile phone offences during double demerit periods, during which the penalty increases to 10 demerit points.
Unrestricted licence holders (drivers and motorcyclists) and bicycle riders
No. It’s illegal to hold and use your phone while stationary at traffic lights or stuck in traffic.
2. Can I touch my phone if it is in a cradle?
If your phone is secured in a cradle, you can only touch your phone:
To make or receive a phone call;
For audio playing functions; or
For using a driver’s aid (such as navigation).
Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Consider the traffic conditions before using your phone.
3. Can I dial a number if my mobile phone is in a cradle?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone to make or receive audio phone calls if it is secured in a mounting (i.e. cradle) fixed to the vehicle.
Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Please consider if the call is urgent and the traffic conditions before using your phone.
4. What do I need to do to use other functions of my mobile phone (e.g. texting, emailing, social media)?
If you would like to use your phone for any of these functions, your vehicle must be parked out of the line of traffic.
5. Do I need to be parked with my ignition off to use my phone?
To use a mobile phone, you must be parked out of the line of traffic. However, the ignition does not need to be turned off.
6. If I have a Digital Driver Licence and I’m pulled over by NSW Police, when is it OK to pick up my phone to show my licence?
You can only handle and use your mobile phone to access your Digital Driver Licence after being requested to do so by a police officer. It’s illegal to touch your phone before a police officer instructs you to do so. For more information on the Digital Driver Licence, please visit the Service NSW website.
7. Am I able to access my mobile phone wallet functions if my vehicle is stationary and off the road?
Yes, if you are required to use a mobile phone wallet function to make a transaction, show a coupon or access an area, then you may do so providing your vehicle is stationary and off the road, such as in a carpark, driveway or drive thru.
8. Can I have my mobile phone in my pocket if I’m using Bluetooth to make or receive a call?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone to make or receive calls if it is in your pocket and it does not require you to touch the phone in any way.
9. I’m a ride share driver. Can I use the dispatch system app on my phone if it’s mounted in a cradle?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone as a dispatch system as long as it is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and doesn’t obscure your view of the road.
10. Can I use a GPS device that is not a phone?
Yes. A GPS device that is not a mobile phone is permitted for all drivers, as long as the device is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and does not obscure the driver’s view of the road.
11. Where can I attach a cradle to my vehicle?
The cradle (also known as a mounting) must be fixed to the vehicle in a manner intended by the manufacturer. It must not obscure your view of the road (in front and to each side). Find more information in our Windscreen mounted phones and GPS fact sheet (PDF, 56Kb) .
12. Will the introduction of mobile phone detection cameras affect me?
Yes, unrestricted licence holders are not permitted to hold and use their phone while driving or riding.
Mobile phone detection cameras enforce illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime across the NSW road network.
13. Is there a warning period for the start of the mobile phone detection camera program?
Yes, warning letters will be issued for the first three months (from 1 December, 2019), during which time drivers caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera will be issued with a warning letter to encourage them to change their behaviour.
Fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who commit an offence after the three month warning period has concluded.
Please note NSW Police provide ongoing police enforcement of illegal mobile phone use.
14. What is the penalty for being caught for illegal mobile phone use?
The fine for illegal mobile phone use is $344, or $457 if detected in a school zone. There is a five demerit point penalty for illegal mobile phone use, which increases to 10 demerit points during double demerit periods.
These fines and demerit point penalties apply to both camera-detected offences and infringements issued by NSW Police.
15. Do double demerits apply for mobile phone offences detected by a mobile phone detection camera?
Yes, double demerits apply to mobile phone offences during double demerit periods, during which the penalty increases to 10 demerit points.
‘STOP’ signs and ‘STOP’ lines (continuous line) are used at intersections to
control traffic.
When you come to a STOP sign you must stop completely before reaching the
STOP line, and as close as possible to the line. Where there is no STOP line, stop
before reaching, and as close as possible, to the intersection.
A STOP sign or a STOP line means you must give way to all vehicles travelling in,
entering or approaching the intersection, whether vehicles are turning left or right,
or going straight ahead. You must give way to any pedestrians crossing the road
into which you are turning.
Giving way at a STOP sign means the driver must remain stationary until it is safe
for the driver to proceed.
Fees differ across licence types. They depend on the class of licence, the amount of time you renew your licence for, and whether you are a learner or provisional licence holder.
The fees for heavy vehicle licences and rider licences are the same as driver licences.
If you have a good driving record and are an unrestricted licence holder, you may be eligible for a 50% discount under the Fair go for safe drivers scheme. For more information about concessions and discounts for licences, see Conditions and discounts.
Item
Amount
Learner licence
$26
Replacement learner licence
$23
Provisional P1 licence
$60
Provisional P2 licence
$94
Unrestricted licence (gold)
1 year: $60 3 years: $140 5 years: $190 10 years: $352Note: 10-year licences only available for unrestricted licence classes C (car) and/or R (rider), holders age 21 to 44.
National Heavy Vehicle Driver licence (magenta)
1 year: $60 3 years: $140 5 years: $190
Replacement licence (P1, P2 or unrestricted)
$28
Test fees
The table below shows the fee amounts for driver and rider tests.
Item
Amount
Driver Knowledge Test
$47 each attempt
Special Mobility Vehicle Knowledge Test
$47 each attempt
Driving Test
$59 (inc GST) each attempt
Riding Test (non-declared areas)
$59 (inc GST) each attempt
Hazard Perception Test
$47 each attempt
NSW Photo Card fees
Fee amounts for Photo Cards depend on whether you hold a NSW Drivers Licence and when you apply for one.
Customer type
Issue
Renewal
Replacement
Eligible pensioner, senior or carer, whether or not holding a driver licence
$0
$0
$0
No NSW driver licence
5 years: $5610 years: $99
5 years: $5610 years: $99
$14
Applying for Photo Card at the same time as applying for NSW driver licence
5 years: $510 years: $5
5 years: $510 years: $5
$14
Holder of a NSW driver licence applying for a Photo Card at another time
5 years: $1410 years: $14
5 years: $1410 years: $14
$14
Handbook and log book fees
All handbooks are available for free download. If you would like a hard copy, you’ll need to pay $13 at a service centre.
The Road User Handbook is also available in Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Greek, Korean, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. See Driver licencing publications.
Learner driver log book
When you get your Learner licence, you are issued with a physical copy. If you lose your log book, you need to get a new one.
The replacement fee for a Learner Driver Log Book is $18.
Replacement exemption letter (lost, stolen, destroyed)
$13
Disability parking permits
The table below shows the fees for Disability Parking permits.
Item
New/Renew
Replacement
Individual
$45 (Eligible concession $0)
$14 (Eligible concession $7)
Temporary
$14 (Eligible concession $0)
$14 (Eligible concession $7)
Organisation
$45 (Concession not available)
$14 (Eligible concession $7)
Note: There is no cost for an individual or temporary permit replacement for reasons such as the card being faulty, or if personal details have changed. Check with Service NSWlaunch if you’re unsure.
Requests for information fees
You might need to ask Transport for information about your driving record, licence or an upcoming court case. There are different fees according to the type of information request.
General information from Transport for NSW records
For general information about Transport’s records (for example, about your licence, vehicles or vessels) the fee is $23.
Evidentiary certificates
An Evidentiary Certificate of Information, also known as a certified record, is a document that is certified by Transport. These records are typically used for official matters, including court cases. The fee for this type of information is $32.
Yes, ONLY if the phone is either:Secured in a cradle fixed to the vehicle; orCan be operated without touching any part of the phone, (e.g. Bluetooth controls)
No.
Use music or audio functions
No.
Use as a driver’s aid (e.g. navigation, Speed Adviser app or dispatch system)
Yes, ONLY if the phone is secured in a cradle fixed to the vehicle
No.
Access a Digital Driver Licence
Yes, ONLY after a police officer has asked you to do so.
Use wallet functions (make a transaction, show a coupon or voucher, or to access an area)
Yes, ONLY if the vehicle is:Stationary; andOff the road (such as in a carpark, driveway or drive thru)
Illegal mobile phone use
All other functions including video calling, texting, emailing, social media, web browsing and photography are prohibited unless parked.
It is also illegal to hold and use a mobile phone at any time while driving or riding.
Using a Digital Driver Licence
It’s illegal to access your Digital Driver Licence when driving, including when stationary, unless you’re asked to do so by a police officer. Penalties apply.
Learner, P1 and P2 licence holders
Restricted licences holders including learner, P1 and P2 drivers and riders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding. This includes use of hands-free and Bluetooth functions.
Illegal mobile phone use will result in heavy penalties including demerit points and fines, which could mean the loss of your licence.
Tip: Avoid temptation and keep your phone in your bag or glovebox.
Unrestricted licence holders and all bicycle riders
Full licence holders and bicycle riders are permitted to use particular mobile phone functions. These include making or answering a phone call, or playing audio, if the phone:
Is secured in a cradle; or
Can be used without touching any part of the phone (e.g. Bluetooth).
This also includes using a mobile phone as a driver’s aid (e.g. navigation) if the phone is secured in a cradle.
Tip: Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Consider the traffic conditions before using your phone.
Mobile phone detection cameras
The mobile phone detection camera program includes fixed and transportable cameras that operate at locations across the network. Coupled with ongoing enforcement by NSW Police, these cameras target illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime.
From 1 March 2020 mobile phone detection cameras will be enforcing illegal use of mobile phones while driving or riding. The penalty for offending drivers is five demerit points and a $352 fine ($469 in a school zone). The penalty increases to 10 demerit points during double-demerit periods.
NSW Police continue to enforce illegal mobile phone use and issue infringements as part of regular operations.
1. Can use my phone to make a call, use GPS or listen to music?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
2. Can I use my phone to make a call, use GPS or listen to music if it’s in a cradle?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
3. Can I use my mobile phone if it is on loudspeaker and in my lap?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding.
This applies regardless of whether the phone in use is being handled, resting on any part of the body, secured in a cradle or is being used hands-free (i.e. via Bluetooth). None of these uses are permitted.
4. Can I use my phone to text?
No. Restricted licence holders are not permitted to use their phone at all while driving or riding, including any texting functions.
5. What do I need to do to use my phone?
If you would like to use your phone for any function – including calling, texting, emailing, playing audio or using social media – your vehicle must be parked out of the line of traffic.
6. Do I need to be parked with my ignition off to use my phone?
To use a mobile phone, you must be parked out of the line of traffic. However, the ignition does not need to be turned off.
7. If I have a Digital Driver Licence and I’m pulled over by NSW Police, when is it OK to pick up my phone to show my licence?
You can only use your mobile phone to access your Digital Driver Licence after being requested to do so by a police officer. It’s illegal to touch your phone before an authorised officer instructs you to do so. For more information on the Digital Driver Licence, please visit the Service NSW website.
8. Am I able to access my mobile phone wallet functions if my vehicle is stationary and off the road?
Yes, if you are required to use a mobile phone wallet function to make a transaction, show a coupon or access an area, then you may do so providing your vehicle is stationary and off the road, such as in a carpark, driveway or drive-thru.
9. Can I use a GPS device that is not a phone?
Yes. A GPS device that is not a mobile phone is permitted for all drivers, as long as the device is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and does not obscure the driver’s view of the road.
10. Will the introduction of mobile phone detection cameras affect me?
Yes, restricted licences holders are not permitted to use their phone while driving or riding. Mobile phone detection cameras enforce illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime across the NSW road network.
11. Was there a warning period for the start of the mobile phone detection camera program?
Warning letters were issued for the first three months (from 1 December, 2019), during which time drivers caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera were issued with a warning letter to encourage them to change their behaviour.
From 1 March 2020 fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who are caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera.
Please note NSW Police provide ongoing police enforcement of illegal mobile phone use.
12. How will I know if I’ve been caught using my phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera?
Fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who are caught using their mobile phone illgally by a mobile phone detection camera.
13. What is the penalty for being caught for illegal phone use?
The fine for illegal mobile phone use is $352, or $469 if detected in a school zone. There is a five demerit point penalty for illegal mobile phone use, which increases to 10 demerit points during double demerit periods.
Learner and provisional P1 licence holders will exceed their demerit point threshold and lose their licence if caught illegally using their mobile phone. All learner and provisional P1 and P2 licence holders will exceed their demerit point threshold and lose their licence if they are caught using a mobile phone during a double demerit period.
These penalties apply to both camera-detected offences and infringements issued by NSW Police.
14. Do double demerits apply for mobile phone offences detected by a mobile phone detection camera?
Yes, double demerits apply to mobile phone offences during double demerit periods, during which the penalty increases to 10 demerit points.
Unrestricted licence holders (drivers and motorcyclists) and bicycle riders
No. It’s illegal to hold and use your phone while stationary at traffic lights or stuck in traffic.
2. Can I touch my phone if it is in a cradle?
If your phone is secured in a cradle, you can only touch your phone:
To make or receive a phone call;
For audio playing functions; or
For using a driver’s aid (such as navigation).
Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Consider the traffic conditions before using your phone.
3. Can I dial a number if my mobile phone is in a cradle?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone to make or receive audio phone calls if it is secured in a mounting (i.e. cradle) fixed to the vehicle.
Using a mobile phone legally can still be distracting. Please consider if the call is urgent and the traffic conditions before using your phone.
4. What do I need to do to use other functions of my mobile phone (e.g. texting, emailing, social media)?
If you would like to use your phone for any of these functions, your vehicle must be parked out of the line of traffic.
5. Do I need to be parked with my ignition off to use my phone?
To use a mobile phone, you must be parked out of the line of traffic. However, the ignition does not need to be turned off.
6. If I have a Digital Driver Licence and I’m pulled over by NSW Police, when is it OK to pick up my phone to show my licence?
You can only handle and use your mobile phone to access your Digital Driver Licence after being requested to do so by a police officer. It’s illegal to touch your phone before a police officer instructs you to do so. For more information on the Digital Driver Licence, please visit the Service NSW website.
7. Am I able to access my mobile phone wallet functions if my vehicle is stationary and off the road?
Yes, if you are required to use a mobile phone wallet function to make a transaction, show a coupon or access an area, then you may do so providing your vehicle is stationary and off the road, such as in a carpark, driveway or drive thru.
8. Can I have my mobile phone in my pocket if I’m using Bluetooth to make or receive a call?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone to make or receive calls if it is in your pocket and it does not require you to touch the phone in any way.
9. I’m a ride share driver. Can I use the dispatch system app on my phone if it’s mounted in a cradle?
Yes. You can use a mobile phone as a dispatch system as long as it is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and doesn’t obscure your view of the road.
10. Can I use a GPS device that is not a phone?
Yes. A GPS device that is not a mobile phone is permitted for all drivers, as long as the device is secured in a mounting fixed to the vehicle and does not obscure the driver’s view of the road.
11. Where can I attach a cradle to my vehicle?
The cradle (also known as a mounting) must be fixed to the vehicle in a manner intended by the manufacturer. It must not obscure your view of the road (in front and to each side). Find more information in our Windscreen mounted phones and GPS fact sheet (PDF, 56Kb).
12. Will the introduction of mobile phone detection cameras affect me?
Yes, unrestricted licence holders are not permitted to hold and use their phone while driving or riding.
Mobile phone detection cameras enforce illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime across the NSW road network.
13. Was there a warning period for the start of the mobile phone detection camera program?
Warning letters were issued for the first three months (from 1 December, 2019), during which time drivers caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera were issued with a warning letter to encourage them to change their behaviour.
From 1 March 2020 fines and demerit point penalties will be issued to all drivers who are caught using their phone illegally by a mobile phone detection camera.
Please note NSW Police provide ongoing police enforcement of illegal mobile phone use.
14. What is the penalty for being caught for illegal mobile phone use?
The fine for illegal mobile phone use is $352, or $469 if detected in a school zone. There is a five demerit point penalty for illegal mobile phone use, which increases to 10 demerit points during double demerit periods.
These fines and demerit point penalties apply to both camera-detected offences and infringements issued by NSW Police.
15. Do double demerits apply for mobile phone offences detected by a mobile phone detection camera?
Yes, double demerits apply to mobile phone offences during double demerit periods, during which the penalty increases to 10 demerit points.
Driving is a complex task. Anything that takes your mind or eyes off the road, or your hands off the wheel, not only compromises your safety, but that of everyone else on the road.
Make sure you know the rules about mobile phone use when driving and watch our animated video.
Mobile phone detection cameras operate across NSW targeting illegal phone use. The program includes both fixed and transportable trailer-mounted cameras. Along with regular enforcement operations by NSW Police, these cameras target illegal mobile phone use anywhere, anytime.
Being distracted increases your chances of having a crash. It slows down your reaction times and puts you in danger of failing to see hazards such as traffic lights, stop signs or other road users, including pedestrians and bicycle riders. Avoid the temptation of using your mobile phone illegally while driving:
Use a mobile phone cradle fitted in your vehicle
Get Bluetooth set up or installed in your vehicle
Get a passenger to answer your messages/calls
Put your phone on silent
Activate the ‘Do not disturb while driving’ function on your phone (e.g. Apple iOS or Android)
Tell others not to call or text you when you’re driving
Divert your calls to voicemail
Pull over when and where it’s safe and legal to do so
Our Get your hand off it campaign warns drivers of the dangers of illegal mobile phone use and the serious consequences of taking your eyes off the road.
The Safer Drivers Course helps young drivers on their L-plates prepare for driving solo when they graduate to provisional licences. Our video Preparing for your Ps shows how the course helps learner drivers with practical advice and safety strategies.
The course teaches learners how to reduce road risks and includes ways to cope when you have your mates in the car or if you’re running late by developing safe driving behaviour.
It’s also designed to help you understand more about speed management, gap selection, hazard awareness and safe following distances, which your parents, supervising drivers or professional driving lessons may not have covered.
Earn credit hours
As well as becoming safer drivers, you can earn a bonus of 20 hours of log book credit once you complete the course, so you only need to finish 100 hours of supervised driving outside the course.
The course has been designed for a learner to attend once, and therefore, the 20 hours of bonus log book credit will only be deducted once.
If you also take 10 hours of professional driving lessons, you’ll receive a further 20 hours of credit on top of the 10 hours you drive during those lessons.
Learner driver
Credit
Supervised driving hours
Logbook total
Safer Drivers Course
20hrs
100hrs
120hrs
10hrs of professional lessons
20hrs*
100hrs
120hrs
Safer Drivers Course and 10hrs professional lessons
40hrs
80hrs
120hrs
*This is in addition to the 10 hours spent driving during the lessons. Professional lessons totalling more than 10 hours will not provide additional credit.
More information on the course
To complete a course, you must be on your L-plates, aged under 25 and have completed at least 50 log book hours of driving.
The course costs no more than $140 and includes a three-hour group discussion with other learners and a two-hour in-vehicle coaching session with another learner. The course is available in almost 250 locations across NSW.
The NSW Government is offering 1000 free places on the Safer Drivers Course each year to help young learner drivers from disadvantaged backgrounds and Aboriginal communities. The fee exemption allows those who are financially disadvantaged to benefit from the road safety outcomes of the Safer Drivers Course.
To be eligible for a free place you need to:
Hold a valid learner licence
Be aged under 25 years
Have completed a minimum of 50 log book hours of actual on-road driving (excluding any 3-for-1 bonus hours) and should include night driving
Hold a current Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Department of Human Services – Centrelink
Have been or are currently in Out of Home Care (OOHC)
Be a current or former participant of a Driver Licensing Access Program (DLAP).
To apply for a free place you need to contact a course provider to enrol in a course and complete the Safer Drivers Course Concession Application form. You will also need to provide a copy of your Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card to your course provider.
Visit the Transport for NSW website to find a Safer Drivers Course provider and speak to them about the free places.
1. Will I need to supply my own vehicle for the in-vehicle coaching part of the course?
No. A dual-controlled vehicle will be supplied by the course provider.
2. What is the maximum number of participants for a course to be held?
Module one (the group discussion) will be run by a facilitator and the maximum number of participants is 12. Module two (the in-vehicle coaching session) will be delivered by a coach with two learner drivers.
3. Do I have to complete the course modules in a set order?
Yes. Participants must complete module one (the facilitated group discussion), before completing module two (the in-vehicle coaching). Module two should be completed within one month of module one.
4. What happens if a learner driver only completes module one?
The 20 log book hours credit will only be available for learners that have completed both modules of the course within four weeks. Participants should contact the course providers directly to learn more about their cancellation/rebooking policies.
5. In what circumstances can I receive a refund or partial refund for the course?
Course providers are required to tell all participants about their cancellation/refund policy at the time of their booking. Participants can speak to course providers regarding these policies by contacting them directly.
6. Can I fail the course?
No. There is no assessment or pass/ fail component of the Safer Drivers Course. However, participants must complete both course modules to be eligible for the 20 hour log book credit in their learner driver log book.
7. How will the 20 hours credit be recorded in my log book after I complete the course?
As you complete each module the facilitator or coach will enter the details and sign off the course completion in your logbook on page 110, ‘Structured Lesson Record Keeper and Safer Drivers Course Record’. In addition, the driving coach will enter 20 hours credit in the ‘Driver experience record’ section of your log book so you can keep an accurate running total of your log book driving hours.
8. What happens if I have a log book that was issued before July 2013?
You won’t need to get a new log book. The course provider will simply staple a completed and signed insert on page 110, ‘Structured Lesson Record Keeper and Safer Drivers Course Record’ of your log book.
9. What if I have a grievance/complaint about one of the course providers or their staff?
Participants must firstly advise a course provider if they are unhappy with the service or if they seek to make a complaint about a facilitator or coach. If this process is unsatisfactory, you can lodge a formal complaint about a course provider by emailing [email protected] or telephoning 13 22 13. You can also mail your complaint to: Manager, Operational Policy, Safer Driver Course Administration, Roads and Maritime Services, Locked Bag 928, North Sydney, NSW 2059.
Animals On Country Roads With most of NSW affected by drought and bushfires, increased numbers of wildlife and livestock on the roads pose an added risk to motorists.
The severe shortage of feed has forced farmers to graze stock on the roadsides, while cattle that have escaped in search of feed can be more unpredictable and present a serious road safety danger.
Wildlife, especially kangaroos and wallabies, are also drawn to the roadside, attracted by the feed watered by run-off from the roads.
Temporary warning signs in areas where cattle graze and also in native animal hotspots urge motorists to slow down and watch for animals on the roads.
Animals on country roads
Safe driving tips
One in every 41 casualty crashes on country roads involves a vehicle hitting an animal. Kangaroos, wombats and stray stock can move fast and be extremely unpredictable. When animals stray onto the road it’s hard to know what they’ll do next. Slowing down and being prepared, especially near sunrise and sunset, could save a collision or even save your life.
Be aware – animals are more active near waterholes and creeks, and harder to see at sunrise and sunset
Reduce your speed – slow down when you see animal warning signs
Stay alert – animals are unpredictable, so expect the unexpected
Brake safely – always apply your brakes in a controlled manner
Never swerve – it is safer to hit an animal than swerve and lose control of your vehicle
Report injured wildlife – call WIRES on 1300 094 737
If drivers come across a horse being ridden on the road, they should:
Slow down and allow plenty of room
Never sound the horn, rev the engine or pass at high speed
Slow down or stop if the rider is having difficulty.
