Got your Ls or recently passed your drive test? Victoria’s learner and probationary drivers have specific rules covering mobile phones, alcohol, passengers, P plates, supervising drivers and other driving conditions.
This guide explains the key L Plate and P Plate rules in Victoria in simple language, so you know what applies before you get behind the wheel.
For the latest official requirements, check the Transport Victoria learner and probationary driver road rules.
Learner (L Plate) Rules in Victoria
When you are driving on your learner permit, you must follow the Victorian road rules as well as the conditions that apply specifically to learner drivers.
- Display L plates: L plates must be clearly visible on the front and back of the vehicle.
- Drive with a supervisor: A supervising driver with a full and current licence must sit in the front passenger seat.
- Zero BAC: Learner drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00.
- No portable device use: Learner drivers cannot operate portable devices while driving, including for phone calls or navigation.
- Carry your learner permit: You must carry your digital or physical learner permit when driving.
- No towing: Learner drivers must not tow a trailer, caravan or another vehicle.
If you are under 21, you need to complete at least 120 hours of supervised driving, including 20 hours at night, before applying for your probationary licence.
P1 Licence Rules – Red P Plates
After passing your drive test, you may move to a P1 probationary licence. P1 drivers have additional restrictions designed to reduce higher-risk driving situations.
- Display red P plates: They must be clearly visible on the front and back of the vehicle.
- Zero BAC: P1 drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00.
- Passenger restriction: You cannot carry more than one peer passenger aged 16 to under 22. Your spouse or domestic partner, sibling or step-sibling are excluded from this restriction.
- No portable device use: You cannot operate portable devices while driving, including for calls or navigation.
- Vehicle restrictions: P1 drivers cannot drive a probationary prohibited vehicle unless an exemption applies.
- Automatic condition: If you passed your test in an automatic vehicle, an A condition applies and you must drive an automatic vehicle unless the condition is removed.
P2 Licence Rules – Green P Plates
P2 drivers have fewer restrictions than P1 drivers, but important probationary conditions still apply.
- Display green P plates: P2 plates must be clearly visible on the front and back of the vehicle.
- Zero BAC: P2 drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00.
- No portable device use: P2 drivers cannot operate portable devices while driving.
- Vehicle restrictions: P2 drivers cannot drive a probationary prohibited vehicle unless an exemption applies.
- Automatic condition: If your licence has an A condition, you must continue to drive an automatic vehicle.
Can L and P Plate Drivers Use a Mobile Phone?
Learner and probationary drivers have strict rules for portable devices. You must not operate a portable device while driving, including using it for phone calls or navigation.
- Do not hold or operate your phone while driving.
- Do not use your phone for navigation while driving.
- Do not rely on hands-free use as an exception to the rules.
- Set up any navigation before you start driving and do not operate a portable device while driving. If you need to use the device, pull over and park safely first.
Speed Limits for L and P Plate Drivers
There is no general 80 km/h maximum speed limit for Victorian learner drivers. Learner drivers must follow the posted speed limit and drive at a speed that is safe for the road and traffic conditions.
Always check the speed-limit signs, particularly when entering school zones, changing speed zones, roadwork areas or higher-speed roads.
P1 and P2 drivers must also follow the posted speed limit and drive at a speed that is safe for the conditions.
Alcohol and L & P Plate Drivers
Learner and probationary drivers must have a zero blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when driving.
If you are driving on your Ls or Ps, the safest approach is simple: don’t drink alcohol before driving.
Practical Tips for L and P Plate Drivers
- Know your licence conditions: Check the conditions attached to your licence or learner permit.
- Put your phone away: Set navigation and other functions before you start driving.
- Watch speed signs: Check for changes in speed limits and adjust your speed promptly.
- Keep your plates visible: Make sure your L or P plates can be clearly seen from the required distance.
- Keep your permit or licence with you: Carry your digital or physical licence as required.
- Build experience gradually: Practise different roads, traffic conditions and driving situations rather than repeating only familiar routes.
Demerit Points for L and P Plate Drivers
Learner and probationary drivers have a lower demerit point threshold than fully licensed drivers. You can receive up to 5 demerit points in any 12-month period or 12 points in any 3-year period. Traffic offences can also lead to fines, licence consequences or vehicle impoundment, depending on the offence.
Learn to Drive Safely in Pakenham
If you’re learning to drive in Pakenham, Start Driving School provides automatic driving lessons in Pakenham focused on safe driving habits, road awareness and preparation for your Victorian drive test.
Lessons are conducted in a Toyota Corolla hatchback with dual controls, with practical training tailored to your current driving experience.
L and P Plate Rules FAQ
Can learner drivers use a mobile phone in Victoria?
No. Learner drivers must not operate portable devices while driving, including for phone calls or navigation.
How fast can a learner driver drive in Victoria?
There is no general 80 km/h maximum for Victorian learner drivers. You must follow the posted speed limit and drive at a safe speed for the conditions.
Can P1 drivers carry passengers?
P1 drivers cannot carry more than one peer passenger aged 16 to under 22. Spouses or domestic partners, siblings and step-siblings are excluded from this restriction, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.
Do L and P plate drivers have a zero BAC limit?
Yes. Learner and probationary drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00 when driving.
Do I need to display L or P plates?
Yes. Learner drivers must display L plates and probationary drivers must display the required P plates clearly on the front and back of the vehicle.
Do the rules change?
Road rules and licence conditions can change. Always check the current Transport Victoria and VicRoads information before relying on a specific rule or penalty.
Ready to Build Your Driving Skills?
Learn safe driving habits from the beginning with practical automatic driving lessons in Pakenham.