There are two key stages where a certified translation of your overseas driver’s licence is required. We provide the latest information for each state and territory on:
- Driving with an Overseas Licence
- Converting an Overseas Licence
In general, the translation requirements for converting an overseas licence into a local one are stricter than those for driving on an overseas licence. In this section, we provide comprehensive information on driver’s licence requirements in Northern Territory, including regulations for driving with an overseas licence and the process for converting it to a local licence.
1 – Driving on a Foreign Licence in Northern Territory (NT): as a Temporary Visitor: Time Limits
- Northern Territory (NT): Three months
2 – Effect of Permanent Visa
- Northern Territory (NT): No effect. The three-month rule applies to everyone.
3 – What You Need to Drive on a Foreign Driver Licence
- Northern Territory (NT): Foreign driver’s licence and an international permit.
4 – Class of Vehicle You Can Drive on a Foreign Driver Licence
Most states and territories allow foreign drivers to use their foreign driver’s licence under Class C and R licences. Drivers must comply with the conditions on their foreign driver’s licence or drive a vehicle of the same class permitted by their foreign licence, in accordance with the relevant regulations in each state or territory.
5 – Applying for a Heavy Vehicle Licence
- Northern Territory (NT): If you have an overseas heavy vehicle licence, you must get an NT driver’s licence before you can apply for a heavy vehicle licence. You must transfer your overseas driver’s licence or motorcycle licence within three months of living in the Northern Territory.
6 – Failure of Driving Test
- Northern Territory (NT): There is no provision in the Northern Territory that prevents a foreign driver from recommencing driving on their foreign driver’s licence after failing the NT driving test. This means that a foreign driver, who has resided in the Northern Territory for less than three months, can attempt the driving test, fail, and recommence driving on their foreign driver’s licence.
Acceptable Translations
Driving with an Overseas Licence
The Northern Territory Government – Driving and Transport accepts NAATI-certified translations from:
- ✅ Interpreting and Translating Service NT (ITSNT)
- ✅ An authorised translator in the NT
It does not specify whether the original translation document is required.
Converting an Overseas Licence
The Northern Territory Government – Driving and Transport accepts NAATI-certified translations from:
- ✅ The Department of Home Affairs
- ✅ An accredited translator at the Interpreting and Translating Service NT (ITSNT)
For the latest updates, contact the local transport authority directly.
Northern Territory (NT): Northern Territory Government – Driving and Transport
- Website: https://nt.gov.au/driving/licence
Following these guidelines will help ensure that you remain compliant with NT’s driving regulations while using your overseas driver’s licence. Safe travels!
You May Also Like
2025 Complete Guide – NAATI/NATTI Certified Translations for Driver’s Licenses in Queensland (QLD)
2025 Complete Guide – NAATI/NATTI Certified Translations for Driver’s Licenses in Victoria (VIC)
2025 Complete Guide – NAATI/NATTI Certified Translations for Driver’s Licenses in Tasmania (TAS)
2025 Complete Guide – NAATI/NATTI Certified Translations for Driver’s Licenses in Canberra/ACT
BL Translations 