You can start practicing for the learner's theory test at any age, but you must be at least 15 years and 9 months old to complete the theory test.
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for your learner's permit.
Steps to getting a car learner's permit
- Step 1
Prepare for a theory test
Visit MyLicence to:
- Step 2
Book a theory 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 and Mile End.
- Pay the $39 fee to do the learner's theory 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 a theory 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).
At the Service SA centre you'll:
- have your photo taken
- have a mySAGOV account created
- download the mySAGOV app
- complete the theory test and if successful:
- pay the learner's permit fee of $70
- 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.
If you already have your learner's permit
If you already have a learner's permit you can:
Need help?
Contact Service SA
Online
Only send general enquiries online. Service SA will respond within 3 working days.
If the matter is urgent or is specifically about your current licence or registration, phone or visit a Service SA centre instead.
Phone
Call Service SA between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays:
- 13 10 84
- +61 8 8226 0206 (overseas callers).
In person
Service SA centre locations and opening hours.
