The cost of a Victorian learner's permit

A learner's permit in Victoria costs $47.10 and is valid for three years from the date you receive it. This is the only fee you pay to VicRoads to hold the permit itself. You do not pay separately for the knowledge test, the hazard perception test, or the medical assessment (if required).

The $47.10 covers the permit card and the administrative processing. If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged permit before the three years are up, you will pay another $47.10 for the replacement card.

Some learners also need to pay for a medical examination before they can get the permit. This is not a VicRoads fee — it goes to the doctor or medical clinic — and it applies only if you have a medical condition that might affect your driving, or if you are over 75 years old. The cost of the medical exam varies by provider, typically between $50 and $150.

Key Takeaways

  • The VicRoads learner's permit fee is $47.10 and covers a three-year permit card.
  • You do not pay extra fees for the knowledge test or hazard perception test; these are included in the permit cost.
  • A medical examination is required only in specific circumstances and is paid directly to the doctor, not to VicRoads.
  • Replacement permits cost $47.10 each if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged before the three-year expiry.

What the $47.10 covers and does not cover

The permit fee covers the card itself, processing by VicRoads, and your right to hold the permit for three years. It does not cover any tests you must pass before you can get the permit, nor does it cover lessons or instruction from a driving school.

Before you can receive the permit, you must pass the knowledge test (also called the written test) at a VicRoads office or approved testing location. This test is free to sit, but you can sit it only once per day. If you fail, you must wait until the next day to try again. There is no fee for retakes.

You must also pass the hazard perception test, which is a video-based test that shows driving scenarios. This test is also free. Both tests are part of the permit process, not separate charges.

Medical assessment costs if you need one

VicRoads may require a medical report before issuing your permit if you have a condition listed in the Assessing Fitness to Drive guidelines — for example, epilepsy, diabetes, heart disease, or severe vision problems. You are responsible for arranging and paying for this assessment.

The cost depends on your doctor or clinic. A standard medical report for driving fitness typically costs between $50 and $150. Some bulk-billing clinics may charge less or nothing at all, depending on your Medicare may be able to access. Contact your GP or a local medical clinic for a quote before booking.

If VicRoads asks for a medical report and you do not provide one, your permit process will not be processed. The medical assessment is not optional in these cases — it is a requirement before you can hold the permit.

Replacement and renewal costs

If your permit card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement from VicRoads. The replacement fee is $47.10, the same as the original permit fee. You will need to provide proof of loss or damage (for example, a police report if the card was stolen).

When your three-year permit expires, you do not renew it. Instead, you must explore for a full licence. The cost of a full licence is different from the permit fee and depends on the type of licence you are seeking (car, motorcycle, heavy vehicle, etc.).

If you want to extend your learning period beyond three years, you must explore for a new learner's permit and pay the $47.10 fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can renew a learner's permit, but each new permit is a separate process and a separate fee.

Payment methods and where to pay

You pay the $47.10 fee when you explore for your permit at a VicRoads office or through an approved agent. VicRoads accepts payment by cash, debit card, and credit card at most locations. Some agents may have different payment options, so check with your local office before you go.

You cannot pay the fee online before you attend in person. The fee is collected at the time you submit your process and sit your tests. If you do not pass the knowledge test on your first visit, you will still have paid the $47.10 — the fee is not refunded if you fail the test.

Driving school and lesson costs are separate

The learner's permit fee does not include any driving instruction. If you choose to take lessons with a professional driving school, that is an additional cost paid directly to the school, not to VicRoads. Driving school fees vary widely depending on the school and the number of lessons you book.

You are not required to take lessons with a professional instructor. You can learn to drive with a supervising driver (usually a family member or friend who holds a full licence) at no cost. However, many learners choose professional instruction to build confidence and skills before the practical driving test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the $47.10 fee even if I fail the knowledge test?

Yes. The fee is collected when you submit your process and sit the test. If you fail the knowledge test, you do not get a refund. You can sit the test again the next day at no additional cost, but you will need to pay the $47.10 fee only once for that permit process.

What happens if I lose my permit card before the three years are up?

You can request a replacement card from VicRoads by providing proof of loss (such as a police report if it was stolen). The replacement fee is $47.10. You will receive a new card with the same expiry date as the original.

Do I need a medical assessment to get a learner's permit?

Only if you have a medical condition that affects driving, or if you are over 75 years old. VicRoads will tell you if a medical report is required when you explore. If it is required, you arrange and pay for the assessment yourself, typically $50 to $150.

Can I pay the permit fee online?

No. You must attend a VicRoads office or approved agent in person to explore for the permit and pay the $47.10 fee. Payment is accepted by cash, debit card, and credit card at most locations.

Is the learner's permit fee the same for all ages?

Yes. The $47.10 fee applies to all learners, regardless of age. The only additional cost that may explore is a medical assessment if you are over 75 or have a medical condition that requires one.