How to Convert Your Overseas Driver’s Licence in Victoria

Moving to Victoria and need to get behind the wheel legally? If your overseas licence is not in English, you will need a NAATI certified translation before VicRoads will accept your application. This guide covers everything you need to know about converting your overseas licence in Victoria.

The 3-Month Rule You must convert your overseas licence within 3 months of becoming a Victorian resident. After this period, you may be required to complete additional tests even if you hold a full licence from your home country.

Who Can Convert? You are eligible if you are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or a temporary visa holder whose visa permits driving in Australia. Your overseas licence must be current and valid — an expired licence will not be accepted and you may need to restart the licensing process from the beginning.

Step 1 — NAATI Certified Translation VicRoads requires a NAATI certified translation for any licence not written in English. The translation must include the translator’s full name, NAATI credential number, official stamp, signature, and a statement confirming the accuracy of the translation. A digital PDF delivered by email is accepted at VicRoads service centres.

Step 2 — Gather Your Documents Bring your original overseas licence (the physical card), your NAATI certified translation, proof of identity such as a passport or ImmiCard, proof of your Victorian residential address such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months, and proof of visa or residency status if applicable.

Step 3 — Visit a VicRoads Customer Service Centre You must attend in person — this cannot be done online. Book an appointment at vicroads.vic.gov.au. Centres in Melbourne metropolitan areas can be busy, so book ahead.

Step 4 — Eyesight Test A basic vision screening is conducted at the centre on the day. It takes a few minutes and no preparation is required.

Step 5 — Pay the Fee The fee is approximately $41–$52 depending on your chosen licence duration and class.

Step 6 — Receive Your Licence Your Victorian licence is posted to your address within approximately 5–10 business days. You are issued a temporary licence receipt to drive with in the meantime.

Direct Conversion Countries — No Tests Required United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Austria, Switzerland, South Korea, Japan, and Papua New Guinea.

Testing Required — All Other Countries Licence holders from countries not on the above list — including China, India, Vietnam, Philippines, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, and Bangladesh — must sit the Hazard Perception Test (HPT) and may be required to complete a practical driving assessment before a Victorian licence is issued.

Why NAATI Matters VicRoads will reject any translation that does not come from a NAATI credentialled translator. This includes translations from community translators, online services without NAATI accreditation, or bilingual staff members. Always confirm your translator holds a current NAATI credential before ordering.