SWIFT AND EASY DRIVING SCHOOL, MACQUARIE FIELDS NSW 2564 CALL 0403 265 915
If you are someone who has recently shifted to Australia and is looking forward to having a road trip to explore places, then there are some important things that you need to take care of. Wondering what it will be?
It is always crucial to check how to convert your license from another country. There are some major rules that you need to follow and agree while doing this process. For example, if you live in New South Wales (NSW), some recent changes to the rules could apply to you. Don’t get confused; this blog will let you know more about it. Let’s go over everything one by one so you are sure what to do.
Yes, you can, but it’s for a short period. After obtaining your overseas driver license conversions, it will be valid in Australia and NSW for up to six months. If you want to stay in the country, you’ll need to transfer your licence to a local type.
This is a major factor in car ownership. If you are in Australia with a temporary visa and you have lived in NSW for over six months, you must get your NSW driver’s licence to keep driving. This rule is applied to everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you came to the place before July 1, 2023, or after that; you are covered. Set a reminder if you’re living here for a longer period. You should not wait until the 6 months to start the process.
If your country was formerly in the Experienced Driver Recognition scheme (such as Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, etc.), you need to know that things have changed. In the past, you could just change your license with minimal testing. Overseas driving license in Australia, the right to request asylum from April 30, 2025, will no longer be accepted. Because of this, drivers from those nations will have to use the new system, and this could encompass additional requirements along with checks on their abilities or information. So, in case you’re eligible below the antique guidelines, it’s smart to act before April 30, 2025.
So, if you’re eligible under the old rules, it’s smart to act before April 30, 2025.
Here’s a super-easy step-by-step to convert your overseas driver’s license in NSW:
● Visit a Service NSW Centre.
● Book an appointment online or just walk in (though appointments are quicker).
● Bring Your Documents
You’ll need:
● Your current overseas Driver license (translated to English if needed)
● Proof of identity and residency
● Visa details and proof of stay
● Pass Required Tests (if applicable)
● Depending on your country of origin, you may need to pass:
● A knowledge test
● A driving test
● Pay the Fees
● Licence application and testing fees will apply.
Get Your NSW Licence
Once you’ve passed everything, you’ll get your new NSW driver’s license, and you’re good to go!
Even before converting, be careful. If you’re driving in NSW with overseas Driver license and you:
Get 13 or more demerit points.
Are convicted of a serious driving offence.
Have your licence suspended overseas.
Get caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Your driving privileges in NSW can be permanently cancelled. That means no more driving at all, even if your visa is still valid.
Converting drivers license in Australia is necessary whenever you travel, work or study in Australia for a long duration. Restrictions are being made tighter, mostly in NSW. Take care of your overseas driver’s licence conversion in advance; don’t procrastinate and follow the law when driving abroad. If you are having more confusion, then it would be best that you connect with the professionals from Swift & Easy Driving School.
Got questions? Drop by your nearest Service NSW centre or to Swift & Easy Driving School. Better safe than sorry!