VicRoads is to make it easier for learner drivers to receive their licences with the release of a new online test.
Announcing the launch of VicRoads’ online Hazard Perception Test, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll said the Test would allow thousands of learner drivers to complete the important step towards passing their licence from home.
“Knowing how to identify and respond safely to hazards is a lifesaving driving skill that protects everyone sharing the road,” Mr Carroll said.
“The online Hazard Perception Test gives us another tool to educate drivers and make our roads safer,” he said.
“Statistics show that young and inexperienced drivers have a higher crash risk within the first 12 months of driving and the Hazard Perception Test ensures they have the skills they need to make the transition to solo driving safely.”
Mr Carroll said the online, computer-based test assessed a driver’s ability to recognise and respond to potential hazards in the safest way possible and focused on scenarios where probationary drivers were more likely to be involved in collisions.
He said that to be eligible to complete the Hazard Perception Test, applicants must be at least 17 years and 11 months old and have an Australian learner permit or have completed the Learner Permit Test within the past 12 months.
“Online test takers will also save money with no in-person appointment fee required, paying only the test fee,” the Minister said.
“While for those customers whose in-person test has been suspended due to COVID-19 restrictions, VicRoads is providing access to the test online, with their first test attempt free.”
Mr Carroll said the online Hazard Perception Test built on the success of VicRoads’ online Learner Permit Test which almost 45,000 young Victorians had taken since it launched in April.
He said that once lockdown restrictions eased, customers would still be able to sit the Hazard Perception Test in person at VicRoads Customer Service Centres.
