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Driving Test /Licencing

How to Convert Your Overseas Driver’s Licence in South Australia

New to South Australia? This guide explains how to convert your overseas driver’s licence step by step—covering translations, myLs, Service SA, and the English-only VORT test.

For new migrants, senior drivers, and non-English speakers

Step 1: Go to Service SA to Get a Client Number

To start, bring these documents to your nearest Service SA:

  • Your original overseas licence
    (Must be current or expired within the last 5 years)
  • A NAATI-certified English translation (paper copy)
  • Proof of ID: Passport, Proof of Age Card (if you have one)
  • Proof of Address (e.g. utility bill, lease agreement, bank letter — must show your name and SA address)

Service SA will create your Client Number, which you’ll use to set up an account online.

Step 2: Set Up MySA GOV and Enrol in MYLS

  1. Go to my.sa.gov.au
  2. Create a MySA GOV account using your client number
  3. Enrol in the My Licence Safe Driving Course (MYLS)

Tip for non-English speakers:

Ask a friend or family member to help you install a browser translator plugin (like Google Translate) to read the course content.

Important:

MYLS includes an online assessment.

After completion, the system may incorrectly show you as a “learner licence” applicant. Ignore that.

As an overseas licence holder, you must go to Service SA to get a temporary driver’s licence — not a learner’s.

Step 3: Get a Temporary Driver’s Licence

Go back to Service SA and bring:

  • Your ID documents again (from Step 1)
  • Confirmation of MYLS course completion

Service SA will issue you a temporary open licence (valid for 3 months).

This allows you to:

  • Drive a car with supervision
  • Take driving lessons
  • Book your driving tests

Step 4: Pass the Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

You can take the HPT before/after your practical driving test.

It’s a computer-based test about:

  • Recognising road hazards
  • Deciding when it’s safe to move

Step 5: Book and Take the VORT (Driving Test)

South Australia uses a private sector testing system. This is different from other states like NSW or VIC. The test is called Vehicle On Road Test (VORT). It’s 35–50 minutes long and must be done in English only, even if your examiner speaks your language.

What’s in the VORT?

You must score at least 90% to pass. The test includes:

Five Manoeuvres (10%):

  • Moving off from the kerb
  • Three-point turn
  • U-turn
  • Angle park
  • Reverse parallel park

System of Car Control (90%):

  • Observation (Rear Mirror, Blind Spot)
  • Vehicle position
  • Decision making
  • Legal compliance
  • Smooth operation

Six Immediate Fail Items:

Failing any of these means automatic failure:

  1. Running a red light or disobeying road signs
  2. Failing to give way
  3. Dangerous or careless driving
  4. Driving over the speed limit
  5. Examiner needs to take control
  6. Ignoring examiner’s instructions

Summary Checklist:

  • Visit Service SA – get client number
  • Create MySA GOV account
  • Enrol in and complete the MYLS course
  • Return to Service SA – get temporary driver licence
  • Book and pass Hazard Perception Test
  • Book and pass VORT (practical driving test)

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