Converting an Indian Driving Licence in Australia (2026 Guide)
India isn't on Australia's recognised list of driving licences, so Indian licence holders sit the same knowledge and practical tests as a new driver. Covers state deadlines, required documents, and driving while you prepare. Figures as at September 2026.
Read the full guide, with official sources →
Watch
Chapters
- 0:00 India isn't recognised.
- 0:13 28 countries are
- 0:30 Practical test:
- 0:40 Documents needed:
- 1:04 Meanwhile, keep driving
- 1:23 Before you assume anything,
- 1:33 Where to read more
Transcript
Converting an Indian driving licence in Australia? India isn't on the recognised list, so you sit the same two tests as a brand-new driver.
About 28 countries are on Australia's recognised list, where licences are treated as equivalent — India is not one of them.
Because India isn't recognised, you sit the knowledge test on road rules first, then a practical driving test.
The practical test is a supervised 30 to 45 minute drive with a test officer. There's no limit on resits, but each attempt has a fee.
You'll need your original Indian licence, an official English translation, proof of identity, and proof of your Australian address.
The deadline to convert varies by state. New South Wales gives citizens and permanent residents 3 months. Queensland gives anyone living there 3 months. Victoria's clock is 6 months, even on a temporary visa.
While preparing, you can keep driving on your valid Indian licence — as long as you carry an official translation or an International Driving Permit.
Most people study for 2 to 4 weeks before the knowledge test, then sit the practical. Many finish the whole process in 2 to 3 months.
The one thing to check first: confirm India's status on the recognised list hasn't changed, and book both tests early if your permanent-resident deadline is close.
The full guide, with the official sources, is on migratio.com.au. The link is in the description.
Short versions
- Is your Indian licence recognised in Australia? (0:31)
- You can drive while you study for the tests (0:29)
- Your deadline depends on your state (0:30)
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