L & P Plate Driver Restrictions in Queensland – What You Really Need to Know

Getting your driver’s licence in Queensland is an exciting milestone—but it comes with a clear set of responsibilities and rules. From learner (L plate) to provisional (P1 and P2) licences, each stage of the journey has specific restrictions to help you build your skills and keep everyone safe on the road.

At Affordable Driving School, we want you to feel confident and informed every step of the way. Below is a practical, up-to-date guide to the key restrictions for L and P plate drivers in Queensland.

Learner Drivers (L Plates) – What Are the Rules?

Getting Your L Plates

• Be at least 16 years old
• Pass the written road rules test
• Display L plates clearly when driving

If you're under 25, you must hold your learner licence for at least 12 months and complete 100 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, before you can book your practical driving test.

If you're 25 or older, the 100-hour logbook requirement does not apply. However, you're still encouraged to get plenty of driving experience before taking your test.

Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

All learners must pass the Hazard Perception Test before booking their practical driving test. You can take the HPT after holding your learner licence for at least 6 months.
The test uses real-life video scenarios to assess how you identify and respond to hazards while driving. If you haven’t passed the HPT, you won’t be allowed to book or take the practical driving test.

Supervision and Who Can Be in the Car

• You must always be supervised by an open licence holder (same class) with at least 1 year of experience.
• There are no legal restrictions on carrying passengers as long as a qualified supervisor is in the front seat.
• To minimise distractions, limit the number of passengers—especially in early learning stages.

Mobile Phone Rules

• Learner drivers cannot use a mobile phone in any way—not even hands-free or Bluetooth.
• If under 25, passengers and supervisors also can't use loudspeaker or video calls while you're driving.

Alcohol Limit

Zero tolerance. Learner drivers must maintain a 0.00% BAC. Supervisors must also be under the legal limit (0.05%).

Vehicle Restrictions

• High-powered vehicles (HPVs) are restricted based on engine size and power-to-weight ratio.
• Vehicles built after Jan 1, 2010: Restricted if power-to-weight ratio exceeds 130kW/tonne.
• Older cars may be restricted if they have V8 engines, turbo/superchargers, or high engine capacity.

Provisional Drivers – P1 and P2 Licence Rules

Once you pass your practical test, you move into the provisional phase, which has two stages:

• P1 Licence (Red P Plates) – Held for a minimum of 12 months
• P2 Licence (Green P Plates) – Held for a minimum of 24 months

P1 Drivers – Key Restrictions

Peer Passenger Rules (Under 25)

• Between 11pm and 5am, drivers under 25 can carry only one passenger under 21, unless they are immediate family.
• No restrictions apply during the day.

Mobile Phones

• P1 drivers cannot use a phone at all while driving—even hands-free or Bluetooth.
• Same restrictions apply to passengers using loudspeaker or video call if the driver is under 25.

High-Powered Vehicles

Not permitted unless over 25 or with an exemption.

Alcohol Limit

Zero BAC remains in place during your P1 period.

P2 Drivers – What Changes?

• Hands-free mobile phone use (e.g. Bluetooth) is permitted.
• No peer passenger restrictions.
• Zero alcohol limit still applies.
• HPVs remain restricted unless exempt.

FAQs

How long do I need to hold my learner (L) licence?

Minimum of 12 months if you're under 25, with 100 supervised driving hours (10 at night). If you're 25 or older, the 100-hour logbook requirement does not apply.

Do I need to pass the Hazard Perception Test before the driving test?

Yes. You must pass the Hazard Perception Test before booking your practical driving test.

Are there passenger restrictions for P1 drivers?

Yes. Between 11pm and 5am, only one passenger under 21 is allowed unless they’re immediate family.

What is the Hazard Perception Test?

An online video-based test that checks how you identify and respond to driving hazards. You can take it after holding your learner licence for 6 months, and you must pass it before booking your driving test.

How many demerit points can I get?

• L and P1 drivers: Up to 4 demerit points in 1 year before facing further penalties
• P2 drivers: Up to 7 demerit points in 1 year before facing further penalties

Final Thoughts

The journey from learner to fully licensed driver is about building smart habits, staying safe, and earning your independence on the road. At Affordable Driving School, we’re not just here to help you pass your test—we’re here to help you become a confident, responsible driver for life.

Book a lesson today with a friendly, qualified instructor and take the next step toward your freedom.