Online driving tests for aspiring motorists
Starting from June, Victorian drivers will have the option to take their learner permit test online, marking a significant shift in the testing process for prospective drivers in the state. The new Learner Permit Test Online (LPTO) is a comprehensive, interactive course and assessment designed to teach and test knowledge of road rules specific to Victoria.
How the LPTO Works
To access the LPTO, candidates must have a myVicRoads account, a reliable internet connection, and a compatible computer or device. The course is divided into three main sections: Your Driving Attitude, Signs and Rules, and Sharing the Road with Others, each ending with a challenge that must be passed to earn a "key." Successful completion of all three sections is required to finish the test.
The course offers a flexible learning experience, allowing individuals to complete the test from home or other locations at their own pace. However, it's important to note that progress is only saved upon completion of each section, and the final assessment must be completed in one sitting, so sufficient uninterrupted time is necessary.
Benefits of the LPTO
The online course offers several advantages:
- Interactive and engaging learning tailored to Victorian road rules.
- Flexibility to complete the test from home or other locations.
- Encourages safer and more informed driving attitudes.
- Saves time by combining learning and assessment in one online environment.
Additionally, there are complementary tools like the "DKT Learner Practice Test 2025" app, which offers extensive practice questions, flashcards, and progress tracking to support preparation before taking the official test online.
Eligibility and Limitations
Eligibility for the online test includes a screening process where disqualified drivers with disqualification periods over 12 months cannot access the test through this format. Those without a compatible device or internet access can still take the Learner Permit Test in person.
If a user loses internet connection or their screen freezes during a topic or sub-topic, they must restart that section since progress is only saved upon completion of each section.
The Future of Driver Testing in Victoria
The move to online testing may not directly address the backlog in learner tests caused by COVID lockdowns. However, VicRoads expects waiting times for licence tests to return to pre-COVID levels by June. The online testing program was first made available to 500 drivers in Gippsland in April, with more invitations sent out in May.
VicRoads has set up 12 temporary test sites in various locations to help clear its licence-testing backlog. Since the resumption of licence testing in September 2020, more than 395,000 tests have been delivered, and another 105,000 tests have been booked.
The state government believes online testing will improve access for would-be drivers, especially in regional Victoria. RACV's senior safety policy adviser, Elvira Lazar, believes the online program will better prepare learner drivers for road safety.
In summary, the new Victorian online learner's test is a multi-section, interactive course accessible via a myVicRoads account, aiming to improve learner drivers' road knowledge and attitudes in a flexible and user-friendly format with eligibility restrictions and the option for in-person testing where needed.
- The online Learner Permit Test Online (LPTO) in Victoria provides an opportunity for individuals to engage in education-and-self-development, as it is a comprehensive, interactive course designed to teach and test knowledge of road rules.
- Flexibility and convenience are key advantages of the LPTO, as it enables learning to occur at home or other locations at the individual's own pace, offering a significant shift in the traditionally offered online-education regarding driver licensing.
