Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

The Hazard Perception Test (or HPT) is a computer-based test that you need to pass before you can take the driving test and get your provisional P1 licence. It measures how well you can recognise potentially dangerous situations on the road.

The purpose of the test is to ensure you have the hazard perception skills to drive solo.

After you pass the HPT, you must pass the driving test to get your provisional P1 licence.

What's included in the HPT?

There are 15 short videos in the test. You'll be given 2 practice videos before the test begins.

The test questions focus on common crash situations for provisional drivers. In each video, you'll be asked to touch the screen to show when you would slow down, overtake or turn at an intersection.

When to book a Hazard Perception Test?

You should book your HPT when you're close to being ready for the driving test.

If you’re 25 or over ⁠– you can take the HPT as soon as you have your learner licence and feel ready.

If you’re under 25 ⁠– you can take the HPT after you've held your learner licence for at least 10 months. However, there is no pressure to do the test at a particular time. Book it when you're ready.

You'll need to pay the test fee when you make your booking.

Once you've passed the HPT, you need to pass the driving test within 15 months. If you don't, you'll need to take the HPT again.

Extra support for taking the test

Languages other than English – The HPT is available in English, Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Greek, Korean, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. An audio version of the test (where you listen to the questions) is also available in these languages.

A free interpreter service is available to people who need to take the test in other languages. Please call 13 22 13 to arrange an interpreter.

If you're from a disadvantaged background or Aboriginal community – The Driver Licensing Access Program can help you in your journey to getting a licence.

Additional needs – If you have trouble reading the questions, our staff at the service centre can assist by reading the questions and explaining them for you.

Please call 13 22 13 to make arrangements with a service centre before you book your test.

What happens if I fail?

You can take the test as many times as you need to pass, but you will need to pay the test fee each time.

To prepare for the test, download the Hazard Perception Handbook (PDF 2.16MB), or purchase it from a service centre. Building your hazard perception skills will help you pass the test and avoid the most common crash types.

You can also develop your hazard perception skills by:

• brushing up on Safe driving behaviour
• doing the Safer Drivers Course
• getting as much driving experience as you can.