Prohibited vehicles for P plate drivers

What are prohibited vehicles?

Prohibited vehicles – also known as 'high performance vehicles' – cannot be driven by drivers with a P1 or P2 licence.

High performance vehicles have greater acceleration and power than other vehicles. The more power a vehicle's engine has compared to its weight, the more acceleration it can deliver.

This condition does not apply to Learner drivers.

Transport for NSW defines a high performance vehicle as a vehicle that:

• has a power to tare mass ratio (PMR) of greater than 130 kilowatts per tonne, or
• has had a significant engine modification, or
• has other specifications or data suggesting that it is a high risk for novice drivers.

The high performance vehicle restriction applies to all P1 and P2 NSW licence holders, even if driving interstate.

For more information, see Prohibited vehicles – definitions.

Which vehicles can I drive?

To find out which vehicles you can and can't drive, use the P1 and P2 vehicle search.

P1 and P2 vehicle search

Some vehicles may not appear in the search or may be listed as 'for review'. This is because they may be older, newly released or niche vehicles.

If you're looking for one of these vehicles, please contact us by phoning 13 22 13 or by email.

Finding vehicle specifications

If you're unsure about a vehicle's specifications you can:

• check the owner's manual
• ask the manufacturer or dealer of the vehicle
• ask a mechanic.

Prohibited vehicle exemptions

If you need to drive a prohibited vehicle you can apply for an exemption. Exemptions are only granted in exceptional circumstances. This is because prohibited vehicles are a high risk for drivers on their Ps.

An exemption from the prohibited vehicles condition applies if:

• a prohibited vehicle needs to be driven for genuine work purposes
• exceptional circumstances apply.

To apply for an exemption you must:

• complete the P1 and P2 passenger or vehicle exemption form (PDF 342.42KB)
• attend a service centre
• pay the application fee.

If an exemption is granted, you must carry the exemption letter issued by Transport for NSW while driving the vehicle.

Note: You must notify Transport for NSW within 14 days if any circumstances have changed which affect your exemption. This includes if you no longer need the exemption, or if the exemption letter needs replacing. A further fee may apply.