Learner drivers can now test from home in NSW

New drivers can now take a test from the comfort of their own homes before applying for a learner driver licence, the New South Wales Government has announced.

According to Transport for NSW, those aged 15 years and 11 months or older can now take the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) online before applying for their learner licence once they turn 16 – while the option to take the test in-person at a Service NSW Centre remains.

Up until recently, taking the test at a Service NSW Centre was the only way to complete the requirement, tying up human resources and extending wait times for patrons.

While additional languages will be available in the future, people can take the online test in either English or Simplified Chinese from launch.

The change follows the introduction of the online learner permit test in Victoria in August 2021 – which was fast-tracked due to the pandemic in 2020 – with similar products also available in Queensland, South Australia, and Tasmania.

MORE: Victoria’s learner permit test moves online

"We know that learning has changed over the years and this new digital, accessible and interactive product is a reflection of how people learn today," Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary, Safety, Environment and REgulation Sally Webb said in a written statement.

"It gives easier access to the test to people who are in regional or remote locations who may not live close to a Service NSW Centre and it also has text-to-speech functionality which makes the product accessible for people with low literacy or dyslexia," Ms Webb said.

"It provides a cost benefit because the test can be taken as many times as needed to pass and a fee of $55 is only paid when you come into the Service NSW Centre to apply for your learner licence and have your photo taken."

The introduction comes following a successful six-week pilot program, with 94 per cent of participants rating the online DKT with either four or five stars.

It's expected 200,000 new drivers will take the online DKT in the first year. For more information, visit the Transport for NSW website by clicking here.