If you hold a driver’s licence from another country and plan to drive in Australia, there are two key situations where a certified translation may be required. This guide provides the latest information for each state and territory regarding:
- Driving with an Overseas Licence
- Converting an Overseas Licence
Generally, the translation requirements for converting an overseas licence into a local one are stricter than those for driving on an overseas licence. Below, we outline the key regulations and processes for Victoria, including how to legally drive with an overseas licence and how to convert it to a Victoria licence.
1. Driving on a Foreign Licence in Victoria as a Temporary Visitor: Time Limits
In Victoria, you can drive on your overseas licence if you have been living in Victoria for less than six months in total.
2. Effect of Permanent Residency
In Victoria, the six-month rule applies to everyone. You must obtain a Victoria driver’s licence within six months of receiving a permanent visa or within six months of arriving in Australia if your permanent visa was granted while you were outside the country.
3. Requirements for Driving on a Foreign Driver’s Licence
To drive legally in Victoria with an overseas licence, you need:
- Your valid foreign driver’s licence
- An international driving permit OR a certified English translation of your licence
4. Vehicle Classes You Can Drive with a Foreign Licence
Most states and territories, including Victoria, allow foreign drivers to operate vehicles under Class C (passenger vehicles) and Class R (motorcycles) licences. Drivers must adhere to any conditions specified on their foreign licence and comply with state-specific regulations.
5. Applying for a Heavy Vehicle Licence
In Victoria, you can use your overseas heavy vehicle (truck) licence. However, if you intend to live in Victoria for six months or more and wish to continue driving a heavy vehicle, you must first convert your overseas car licence to an Australian licence. Once your car licence is converted, you can apply for a heavy vehicle licence.
Additionally, you can no longer drive in Victoria using your overseas heavy vehicle licence if you hold a licence for any other type of vehicle from any Australian state or territory.
6. What Happens If You Fail a Driving Test?
If you fail a VicRoads practical driving test, you will no longer be permitted to drive in Victoria using your overseas driver’s licence. This rule applies to all VicRoads practical driving tests, including:
- Car driving tests
- Motorcycle learner permit skills assessments
- Motorcycle licence tests
- Heavy vehicle licence tests
Acceptable Translations
Driving with an Overseas Licence
VicRoads accepts NAATI-certified translations by NAATI-certified translators but does not specify whether the original translation document is required.
Converting an Overseas Licence
VicRoads accepts NAATI-certified translations by NAATI-certified translators but does not specify whether the original translation document is required.
For the latest updates, contact the local transport authority directly.
Victoria (VIC) – VicRoads
Following these guidelines will help ensure that you remain compliant with Victoria’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 Tasmania (TAS)
2025 Complete Guide – NAATI/NATTI Certified Translations for Driver’s Licenses in Canberra/ACT
BL Translations 