To get your probationary licence you must pass the Hazard Perception Test. You must pass this computer-based test before you can attempt the on-road Drive Test.
A hazard is something that increases your risk of a crash. The Hazard Perception Test checks that you can recognise and react to hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. It presents you with traffic scenes where new drivers are more likely to crash. It checks your ability to observe the whole road scene and to respond safely to possible hazards.
You need good hazard perception skills to drive safely and avoid crashes. These skills are explained below in the Hazard perception skills section. It is important that you understand this information so that you can correctly respond to the questions in the Hazard Perception Test.
You must be at least 17 years 11 months before you can do the Hazard Perception Test. The test results are valid for 12 months. If you don’t obtain your licence within 12 months of passing the Hazard Perception Test, you will have to sit the test again.
What happens during the Hazard Perception Test?
During the test you will watch 28 short videos taken from a driver’s perspective. For each video you must indicate when you would react if you were the driver (e.g. slow down, overtake, start to turn, move off, or no action). Each video runs for approximately 30 seconds and you must click the mouse when you think it is safe to perform the required task, unless you decide no action is required.
Your responses will be assessed in terms of safety.
You will have 45 minutes to complete the test. A score of 54% or more is needed to pass.