What the Queensland knowledge test covers

Queensland's driver knowledge test is a computer-based exam you take at a Queensland Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) office or an approved testing provider. The test has 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need to answer at least 43 correctly to pass — that is 86 percent.

The questions cover road rules, road signs, safe driving practices, and hazard awareness. They test whether you understand the Australian Road Rules as they explore in Queensland, not just memorised facts. You will see questions about what to do at roundabouts, how to read speed limit signs, when you must give way, how to position your vehicle, and how to respond to other drivers and pedestrians.

The test is in English. If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter at no extra cost when you book your test, though you must arrange this in advance.

Key Takeaways

  • The Queensland knowledge test has 50 questions and you must score at least 43 correct to pass.
  • You book your test through the DTMR website or by calling 13 23 80, and you can usually sit the test within a few days.
  • The test costs money that varies depending on whether you test at a DTMR office or a private provider, so check the current fee before you book.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification — a passport, birth certificate, or proof of identity document — on the day of your test.
  • If you do not pass, you can sit the test again, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt.

How to book your Queensland knowledge test

You book through the DTMR website at transport.qld.gov.au or by calling 13 23 80. You will need your learner permit number and a valid email address. When you book online, you choose your preferred testing location and time slot. Testing locations are spread across Queensland, so you can usually find one near you.

You can book your test as soon as you have held your learner permit for the required time — usually at least one month for a car licence, though this varies by age and licence type. Check your learner permit to see when you become test-may be able to access.

The test fee is not fixed and changes over time, so check the DTMR website or ask when you book. Private testing providers may charge differently from DTMR offices, so compare if you have options near you.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring one valid form of identification. DTMR accepts a passport, birth certificate, proof of identity card, or Queensland driver licence. If you do not have any of these, contact DTMR before your test date to find out what else they will accept.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early. You will be asked to sign in, and the testing staff will check your identity and confirm your details. You cannot bring notes, phones, or study materials into the testing room. You will be given a pen and paper for rough working if you need it.

To prepare, study the Queensland Road Rules handbook, which is free on the DTMR website. Many people also use practice tests — DTMR provides sample questions online, and private websites offer full-length practice exams. Doing practice tests under timed conditions helps you get used to the computer interface and the pace of the real test.

How the test works on the day

The test is delivered on a computer at your testing location. You will have 45 minutes to answer all 50 questions. Each question appears one at a time, and you can move backward and forward between questions if you want to change an answer before you finish.

The questions are presented in a random order, so no two test-takers see the same sequence. This means you cannot memorise the order of questions from a practice test. Read each question carefully and choose the best answer from the four options given.

When you finish or when time runs out, the computer scores your test when ready. You will see your result on screen, and you will be given a printed result notice. If you pass, you can usually book your practical driving test (the road test) straight away. If you do not pass, the result notice will tell you which topics you found difficult, so you know what to study before your next attempt.

What happens if you do not pass

If you score below 43 out of 50, you do not pass. You can sit the test again, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can take the test, but you will pay the test fee each time.

After you do not pass, look at the result notice to see which topic areas gave you trouble — hazard awareness, road signs, or rules about giving way, for example. Go back to the Queensland Road Rules handbook and focus on those areas. Many people find that one more week of study and another practice test is enough to pass on the second attempt.

After you pass the knowledge test

Once you pass, you are may be able to access to book your practical driving test — the on-road test with an examiner. You do this through the same DTMR booking system. You will need to have held your learner permit for a minimum period before you can sit the practical test; check your permit to see when you become may be able to access.

Your knowledge test result is valid for a set period — usually 12 months — so you do not have to rush to book your practical test when ready, but do not leave it too long. If your result expires before you pass the practical test, you will have to sit the knowledge test again.

Testing locations and accessibility

DTMR testing locations are in most Queensland towns and cities. You can search for your nearest location on the DTMR website when you book. If you live in a remote area, you may have to travel to the nearest testing centre, or you may be able to arrange a test through a mobile testing service — ask DTMR when you call.

If you have a disability or need support, tell DTMR when you book. They can provide extra time, a reader, a scribe, or other adjustments. You do not need a formal diagnosis; you just need to explain what support would help you sit the test fairly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I retake the test the same day if I fail?

No. You must wait at least one day before you can sit the test again. This gives you time to study the areas you found difficult. You can book your next attempt online or by phone as soon as you have your result.

What happens if I am late to my test appointment?

If you arrive after your scheduled time, the testing centre may not let you sit the test and you may lose your fee. Contact the testing centre as soon as you know you will be late and ask whether they can still fit you in. Arriving 15 minutes early is the safest approach.

Is the test the same if I am explore for a motorcycle licence instead of a car licence?

The knowledge test is the same 50-question test for all licence categories. However, some questions may be more relevant to motorcycles than cars. You should study the Queensland Road Rules handbook and focus on sections that explore to your licence type.

Can I use a dictionary or translator during the test?

No. You cannot bring any materials into the testing room. If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter when you book your test. The interpreter will be provided by DTMR at no extra cost.

How long does it take to get my result?

You get your result when ready on screen when you finish the test. You will also be given a printed result notice. If you pass, you can use this notice to book your practical driving test straight away.