Victoria (VIC) has ceased the Experienced Driver Recognition on 30 April 2025, while WA, QLD, NSW and TAS will follow suit. As of today, the Experienced Driver Recognition Status in ACT, NT, and SA has also ceased.
Driving on your overseas driver’s license
VicRoads accepts NAATI-certified translations by NAATI-certified translators but does not specify whether the original translation document is required.
Transfer your diver’s license to SA diver’s license
VicRoads accepts NAATI-certified translations by NAATI-certified translators but does not specify whether the original translation document is required.
Ausroads Updates
Australia’s Recognised Country Scheme has long made it easier for overseas drivers from certain countries—like the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany and Greece—to convert their licences without additional testing. These nations are considered to have driver training and testing systems on par with Australia’s.
But what about countries such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and South Africa?
Until now, drivers from these regions have benefited from the Experienced Driver Recognition (EDR) pathway. If you’re 25 years or older and have held your licence for at least 12 months, you could usually exchange your licence without sitting local tests.
🔄 The Update: EDR Is Being Phased Out
Austroads—the body overseeing driver licensing standards—has announced some big changes:
- EDR already ended in the ACT, NT, SA and VIC (April 2025).
- It will end soon in:
- WA – 31 Oct 2025
- QLD – 29 Nov 2025
- NSW – Feb 2026
- TAS – later in 2026
After these deadlines, drivers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and South Africa will no longer be able to swap licences through EDR. Instead, they will need to complete extra training and likely undertake written and practical driving tests before being issued an Australian licence.
🌏 Why This Matters
For individuals relocating to Australia for work, study, or family reasons, these changes can significantly impact the time, cost, and preparation required to get back on the road. For employers, education providers, and migration agents, it’s critical to understand these timelines to better support clients and staff.
✅ Key Takeaway
If you hold a licence from Taiwan, Hong Kong, or South Africa and are moving to Australia, check your state’s deadlines carefully. Acting early could save you time, money, and stress.
#Australia #DrivingLicence #Migration #InternationalStudents #Taiwan #HongKong #SouthAfrica #Austroads #EDR #RoadSafety #ExpatLife
BL Translations 