Newly licensed provisional drivers have a far higher crash risk than learner drivers, as a supervisor no longer accompanies them. Some self-imposed constraints and seeking support when needed can reduce your risk as an independent driver.
Night Driving
If possible, avoid driving at night, particularly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. These times represent significantly higher risk to provisional drivers.
Passenger influences
For the first year of provisional driving, try to limit yourself to one passenger. A relative or trusted friend can be very helpful, however, some passengers can distract you and make it harder to focus on driving.
Driving distractions
Activities liking adjusting the stereo can divide your concentration and result in a crash. Get a passenger to do tasks or, if alone, wait until you are stopped. Mobile phones can only be used if you are pulled over with the engine off.
Licence restrictions for P1 licences
Blood Alcohol Concentration | Zero (no alcohol in your system) |
Demerit points | 4 points |
Plate display | Plates must be displayed clearly on the exterior of the front and back of the vehicle |
Maximum speed limit | 90km/h |
Towing | Max = trailer of 250kg unloaded weight |
Supervision | Not allowed to supervise a learner |
Mobile phone | Not allowed unless vehicle is parked |
Passenger limits | Drivers under 25 are restricted to one passenger under 21 from 11pm to 5 am |
Licence class | Only applies to C class (car) |
Transmission | If tested in automatic, can only drive automatic |
Vehicles | Must not drive vehicle with:
|
Licence restrictions for P2 licences
Blood Alcohol Concentration | Zero (no alcohol in your system) |
Demerit points | 7 points |
Plate display | Plates must be displayed clearly on the exterior of the front and back of the vehicle |
Maximum speed limit | 100km/h |
Supervision | Not allowed to supervise a learner |
Mobile phone | Not allowed unless vehicle is parked |
Vehicles | Must not drive vehicle with:
|
Continue reading the Guide to the Driving Test Summary:
6. Tips for Provisional Drivers
Check out the other resources available to help you pass the Practical Driving Test and get your provisional P1 licence (Red Ps):