Overseas Drivers in WA: Rules, Licence Conversions & Driving Tips
- Cameron Haughey
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 7
If you’ve just arrived in Western Australia, you might be wondering:
“Can I drive here on my overseas licence?”
The short answer: yes — but there are important rules you need to know. Whether you’re here for a short visit, a working holiday, or moving permanently, understanding your rights will save you stress, fines, and potentially a failed driving test.
Can You Drive in WA with an Overseas Licence?
If you’re visiting WA temporarily — tourist, student, working holidaymaker — you can drive on your overseas licence as long as it’s valid and in English.
If your licence is in another language, you’ll need an official English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
How Long You Can Drive Before You Need a WA Licence
Short‑term visitors: You can drive for the duration of your stay, as long as your overseas licence is valid. Permanent residents / long‑term migrants: You can drive for up to 3 months after becoming a WA resident before you must transfer to a WA licence.
Who Needs to Sit the Driving Test
There are two main categories:
Recognised Countries
Some countries have a reciprocal agreement with Australia.
If your licence is from one of these, you may not need to do a driving test — just apply and transfer.
Non‑Recognised Countries
If your country isn’t on the list, you’ll need to pass WA driving tests:
Theory Test
Hazard Perception Test
Practical Driving Assessment (PDA)
Steps to Convert Your Overseas Licence to a WA Licence
Book an appointment at a Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) centre.
Take your documents: proof of identity, overseas licence, IDP/translation (if needed).
Pay the application fee.
Sit any required tests: theory, hazard perception, PDA.
Pass your tests and get your WA licence.
Driving Rules That May Be Different from Your Country
Some key WA rules that trip up overseas drivers:
Indicating at least 5 seconds before leaving a parked position.
Strict lane discipline — stay in the left lane unless overtaking.
Stop signs mean stop completely, even if the road is clear.
Parking rules can be stricter than overseas — check signs carefully.
The PDA is often the biggest hurdle for overseas drivers. Common challenges include:
Understanding local road markings.
Adapting to roundabout rules.
Mastering parking manoeuvres that may not be common in your home country.
That’s where GOAT Driving can help.
We offer step‑by‑step DIY lesson plans designed for WA learners and overseas drivers:
Learn at your own pace with your supervisor.
Save hundreds on driving lessons.
Available in English, Spanish & Portuguese.
Affordable Driving Lessons for Overseas Drivers in WA
If you’re getting ready to convert your licence and need to pass your PDA, check out our DIY Driving Lesson Plans.
They’re based on thousands of lessons taught here in WA — and they’ve already helped local and overseas drivers pass first time.
Final Thoughts
Driving in WA with an overseas licence can be straightforward if you know the rules:
Check if your country is recognised.
Follow time limits for converting your licence.
Prepare early if you need to take the PDA.
🚗 Start preparing today with our affordable WA DIY driving lesson plans — in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.👉 See Pricing & Plans
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