Driving with an International License in Australia: State-by-State Overview

Driving rules for international license holders in Australia vary depending on the state or territory you are in. Below is a brief overview of the regulations for each state:

New South Wales (NSW)
Validity: You can drive with an international license indefinitely if you are a visitor. If you become a permanent resident, you must obtain a NSW driver’s license within 3 months.
Visas Impact: Tourists, international students, and temporary visa holders (except permanent residents) can use their international license without a time limit.

2. Victoria (VIC)
Validity: You can drive with an international license for up to 6 months from the date you arrive in Victoria. After that, you must obtain a Victorian license.
Visas Impact: Permanent residents and those intending to stay in Victoria for more than 6 months must convert their license within that period.

3. Queensland (QLD)
Validity: You can drive with an international license as long as it remains valid in the country of issue. Once you become a permanent resident, you have 3 months to switch to a Queensland license.
Visas Impact: Temporary visa holders can drive indefinitely with their international license, while permanent residents need to convert their license after 3 months.

4. South Australia (SA)
Validity: You can use your international license for up to 12 months from the date of arrival. After 12 months, you need to obtain a South Australian driver’s license.
Visas Impact: Both temporary and permanent residents must obtain a local license within 12 months.

5. Western Australia (WA)
Validity: You can drive with an international license for up to 12 months after arriving in WA. After 12 months, you must obtain a WA driver’s license.
Visas Impact: Permanent residents need to convert their license within 3 months of obtaining residency.

6. Tasmania (TAS)
Validity: International licenses are valid for up to 3 months after arriving in Tasmania. After 3 months, you need to obtain a Tasmanian driver’s license.
Visas Impact: The 3-month rule applies to both temporary and permanent residents.

7. Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Validity: You can drive with an international license for up to 3 months after arriving in the ACT. After that, you need to get an ACT driver’s license.
Visas Impact: Permanent residents must convert their license within 3 months.

8. Northern Territory (NT)
Validity: You can use an international license for up to 3 months. After that, you must obtain a Northern Territory driver’s license.
Visas Impact: This rule applies to all residents, both temporary and permanent.

Additional Important Information
Language Requirements: If your international license is not in English, you must carry an official translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your license.
Local Rules and Regulations: It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific road rules in the state or territory you’re driving in, as they may vary slightly.

This summary provides a general guide, but always check the latest local regulations as they can change. LINKS TO REGS?