Hazard Perception Test NSW (HPT)

Service NSW lists two remaining steps between a learner licence and a provisional P1 licence: pass the HPT, then pass the practical Driving Test. You cannot sit the Driving Test until the HPT is passed, so the HPT is the last computer based test before you drive with an examiner.

Who can sit it, and when

You need a current NSW learner driver licence. If you are under 25, you can sit the test once you have held that licence for at least 10 months. If you are 25 or older, you can sit it as soon as you hold a learner licence and feel ready. Transport for NSW suggests booking it when you are close to ready for the Driving Test, and says there is no pressure to sit it at a particular time.

What happens in the sitting

The test is computer based and runs on a touch screen. You get 2 practice videos, then 15 short videos. In each one you touch the screen to show when you would slow down, overtake or turn at an intersection. The questions focus on common crash situations for provisional drivers. Transport for NSW describes the purpose as making sure you have the hazard perception skills to drive solo, by measuring how well you recognise potentially dangerous situations on the road.

Where to sit it

At a Service NSW centre. You book through Service NSW and prove your identity when you attend. If you have trouble reading the questions, staff at the centre can read them to you and explain them, and you arrange that by calling 13 22 13 before you book.

If you do not pass

You can sit the test as many times as you need, paying the fee each time. A pass is valid for 15 months, and if you have not passed the Driving Test inside that time you must sit the HPT again.

Preparing, and what else the agency says

Transport for NSW's advice is to read the Hazard Perception Handbook, a 2.16MB PDF you can download or buy printed at a service centre, brush up on safe driving behaviour, consider the Safer Drivers Course and get as much driving experience as you can. The test is offered in English, Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Greek, Korean, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese, each with an audio version, and a free interpreter service is available. To book you need your NSW driver licence number, Photo Card number or Transport for NSW customer number, plus payment and the Licence Application form, and an Online Services account is optional. The Driver Licensing Access Program helps people from disadvantaged backgrounds and Aboriginal communities get a licence.