To get your car learner's permit (L's) you need to pass a learner's theory test.
If you prefer to complete your learner's test in person (instead of online) or if you need a translator, you can complete it at a Service SA centre.
After you have passed the test, if you're at least 16 years old, you can apply for your L's.
Steps to getting your L's
- Step 1
Prepare for the test
You can:
- Step 2
Book your test
You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to complete the learner's test.
To book, phone Service SA on 13 10 84. Testing times are 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
- Tests can be taken at any Service SA centre except Regency Park.
- Pay the $40 fee to do the test. Alternatively, this can be paid when you attend in person at the Service SA centre. The fee is charged each time you attempt the test.
- Step 3
Attend a Service SA centre
Attend the Service SA centre you've booked for your test. Take with you:
- evidence of your identity - find out what identity documents are accepted.
- a completed learner's permit application(153.5 KB PDF).
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for your learner's permit.
At the Service SA centre you'll:
- have your photo taken
- have a mySAGOV account created
- download the mySAGOV app
- complete the learner's test and if successful:
- pay the learner's permit fee of $72
- open the mySAGOV app to add your digital permit to your phone.
You should receive your learner's permit card in the post within 3 weeks.
If you don't receive the permit card within 3 weeks phone Service SA on 13 10 84. If you don't contact Service SA within 30 days you may need to pay a replacement fee.
What happens next
Having your learner's permit means you're allowed to drive a car on the road with a qualified supervising driver or driving instructor but there are conditions.
While learning you must complete at least 75 hours of driving including a minimum of 15 hours at night with a qualified supervising driver or a driving instructor. This must be recorded in a log book.
You must carry your learner's permit card or digital permit when driving and show it to a police officer when asked.
You must hold a learner's permit for:
- at least 12 months if you are under 25 years old
- at least 6 months if you are 25 years old or over.
Find out more about the learner's stage.
Once you have completed the learner's stage you can apply for your provisional licence.
Already have your L's?
If you already have a learner's permit, you can:
