A Guide to Passing the Driver Knowledge Test

Here is a comprehensive guide to mastering the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) and securing your L plates.

1. Choose Your Test Method

You now have two ways to take the DKT. Decide which suits you best:

• DKT Online: An interactive 4–6 hour course you can do at your own pace at home. Once the course is completed you can attempt to pass the online test as many times as you need. You only pay the test fee when you apply for your licence.

• In-Person DKT: A traditional computer-based multiple-choice test at a Service NSW centre. You must book this in advance and pay a fee for every attempt.

2. Master the Test Format

The DKT consists of 45 multiple-choice questions pulled from a bank of over 300. It is divided into two critical sections:

Section Number of Questions Correct Answers Needed

General Knowledge 15 Questions At least 12

Road Safety 30 Questions At least 29

Crucial Tip: The Road Safety section (which covers speed limits, seatbelts, and alcohol) is very strict. If you get more than one question wrong in this section, you fail immediately.

3. Essential Study Resources

Don't "wing it"—the failure rate for unprepared applicants is roughly 30%. Use these official tools:

• The Road User Handbook: This is the "bible" for the test. Every question is based on its contents. Focus on chapters regarding Intersections, Giving Way, and Traffic Lights.

• Official Practice Tests: Use the Service NSW website or the "DKT NSW" mobile app. Keep practicing until you can get 100% three times in a row.

• The Question Bank: Transport for NSW publishes the entire PDF of possible questions. Scanning this ensures there are no surprises on test day.

4. Key Rules to Memorize

Expect several questions on these high-priority topics:

• School Zones: Know the standard times (8:00am–9:30am and 2:30pm–4:00pm) and the 40km/h limit.

• Giving Way: Understand who goes first at roundabouts and T-intersections (always give way to the "continuing" road).

• Mobile Phones: Review the strict zero-tolerance rules for learner and provisional drivers.

• Alcohol & Drugs: Learners must have a 0.00% Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).

5. Test Day

If you are taking the test In-Person:

1. Arrive Early: Get to the Service NSW centre 15 minutes before your booking.

2. Bring ID: You’ll need proof of identity (usually a passport or birth certificate).

3. Read Carefully: Many questions are worded similarly. Read the full question and all the options before selecting the answer.

4. Stay Calm: There is no time limit for individual questions, though the total session is usually capped at 45 minutes.

6. Next Steps After Passing

Once the screen says "PASS":

• Pay the Fee: If you did it online, go to Service NSW to pay your licence and test fees.

• Eyesight Test: You will need to pass a quick vision check at the counter.

• Digital/Physical Licence: You'll get a temporary paper licence and your plastic card will arrive by mail in 1-2 weeks time.

• Get Your Logbook: Download the Roundtrip or Licence Ready app to start tracking your 120 supervised hours.