The State Government of Western Australia is introducing changes to the provisional licence process to better prepare applicants and produce safer drivers.
The first change will be the re-sequence of the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) and Practical Driving Assessment (PDA). From October 9, learners need to complete both the HPT and 50 hours of supervised driving – including five hours of night-time driving – before being eligible to take their PDA.
According to the State Government, changing the sequence will reduce the complexity of the provisional licence process, align Western Australia with other States and streamline the Department of Transport’s service delivery.
“The State Government has listened to industry and community feedback about the provisional licence process and we will ensure applicants have greater driving experience and cognitive maturity when attempting their driving tests,” said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.
“The provisional licence process has seen a reduction in road crashes involving novice drivers. It is hoped that the re-sequence will increase the current practical driving assessment pass rate, resulting in more assessment slots being vacant, which will reduce customer wait times for PDA availability. Current provisional licence applicants will receive a letter with information explaining these changes in detail.”
Existing learner’s permit holders will automatically transfer to the new process from October 9.
For more information, visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/gdtl.
