Introduction
When NSW implements its new Driving Test System in 2026 it will greatly impact the number of learner drivers across the state. With an increasing number of applicants at Service NSW and a higher demand for qualified, well-prepared drivers, NSW Transport will bring a variety of reforms to the current system to modernize and improve access to the Learning to Drive program in the state; decrease the amount of stress on service licensing centers, and ensure that a new driver has all of the skills necessary to be a safe driver prior to receiving their full driver license.
In response to increased numbers of applicants, an increased number of Learner Drivers taking the test and an increased number of safer drivers on the roads, there have been a number of reforms in the Driving Test System in NSW since 2020. The introduction of an online DKT for prospective learners, the introduction of adjusted log book requirements and a number of other changes to the driving test system for applicants with overseas licenses.
The new driving test in 2026 is designed to introduce greater clarity, convenience and efficiency for prospective learners. By understanding the changes to the driving test system, you will be able to prepare for the changes in advance and avoid unnecessary delay. A summary of the driving test NSW changes will help you understand what is involved and what it means for you.
What is the DKT Online?
The concept of the online Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) is to make a knowledge assessment flexible and accessible to learner drivers in that it will allow learner drivers to take the knowledge test from home or any other location that has access to the internet. Prior to the introduction of the DKT Online, a learner driver would have to attend Service NSW immediately following completion of their logbook and go to the testing location at the time of their appointment; however, with the DKT online, the learner driver can log in to take it at their own pace and will receive an instant response regarding their results. It provides a significantly improved level of convenience for learner drivers that wish to take the first step towards obtaining their full driver license.
Who Benefits and Why
The online DKT (Driver Knowledge Test) is specifically beneficial for learners located in remote or regional locations where it may be difficult for individuals to reach a Service NSW Centre. Also, the availability of this service supports students, workers, and families who have busy lives and need flexible testing options. Users of the service will also find the accessibility of the service much improved. For example, there is a text-to-speech option for individuals with low literacy levels or dyslexia. This also allows for learners to retake the test without having to go to the Service centre multiple times. Furthermore, the fee only applies when applying for their license or when getting their photo taken when applying for their license. It makes this process easier, quicker, and less stressful for everyone.
License Log-book & Learner Driving Hours—Updated Tools & Requirements
Keeping track of driving hours is an essential part of earning your NSW driver license, and recent changes aim to make this process smoother and more reliable for all learners. After receiving their learner’s permit, every learner must log their driving hours. Due to the increasing number of people learning to drive each year, Transport for NSW has changed the tools and requirements for all learner drivers in order to make the recording of driving hours a more accurate, accessible and manageable process.
Official Digital Log-book: The Roundtrip App
Transport for NSW and Service NSW only recognize Roundtrip as the one and only official digital logbook app from 29th June 2024. Other apps such as License Ready and L2P have ceased operations. Learners who used these previous apps are required to transfer their recorded driving hours to a paper logbook in order to be included in their final count of driving hours. Moving to a single approved app standardizes the recording process and will help to eliminate problems associated with compatibility between apps.
Why This Matters for New Learner Drivers
The Roundtrip app allows you to keep track of your supervised driving hours in an easy, effective, and secure manner. The app allows you to keep your records digitally rather than on paper so there is less chance of losing or damaging your records. This will help learners avoid delays when booking their driving test as a result of misplaced or damaged logbooks. By utilizing the Roundtrip app, learners in NSW have the ability to transition from L-plates to provisional licences more smoothly and effectively due to this streamlined process. With all of your records in one location that is officially recognised, you can focus more on safely and confidently operating your vehicle rather than on managing your logbook.
Changes Affecting Overseas Drivers & Licence Conversions
As a means to drastically improve the level of road safety in NSW, the State Government has established several new rules pertaining to licence conversions from overseas to ensure that all drivers meet consistent standards. This is of utmost importance to newly arrived residents, international students, and anyone who has an overseas driver's licence.
Phasing Out of “Experienced Driver Recognition” (EDR) Option
Under the old rules, certain foreign licence holders were able to convert to an NSW licence with a reduced number of testing requirements if they came from a ‘recognised’ country. This was called the Experienced Driver Recognition (EDR) system, and it will be phased out entirely with the implementation of the new conversion rules commencing on 1 February 2026. All drivers aged 25 years or older from ‘List B’ countries will now be required to complete both the knowledge test and practical driving test to obtain an NSW driver's licence. This change provides consistency in competency standards amongst all drivers, establishing a safer and more consistent driving environment within the state.
Extended Conversion Deadline — Why It Matters Now
In order to give impacted drivers additional time to convert their overseas licences under existing legislation, the conversion deadline has been extended until the 31st of January 2026. After the deadline, all individuals who have not completed their conversions will likely have to take a complete driving/road test regardless of whether they qualified for an easier option prior to this. Additionally, many new migrants and temporary residents may not be aware of the changes and the increased demand for licence testing, so taking action now can make the wait and testing for new drivers.
Increased Demand & Test Backlog — What Learners Should Expect in 2026
With changes occurring within the licensing system in New South Wales, there has been a significant increase in the number of bookings for practical driving tests. The growth of learner drivers who require practical driving tests combined with the number of overseas licence holders now required to complete both knowledge-based and driving-based tests has placed considerable pressure on appointment availability. By becoming familiar with the trends and consumer behaviour established above, learners will be able to plan their activities in advance in order to avoid waiting times.
Surge in Test Demand Due to Licence Conversion Changes
Conversions Many overseas drivers are required to complete both the knowledge-based and driving-based test in order to obtain an apprenticeship allowance. As a result, the demand for the availability of practical driving tests has grown rapidly. The increased demand for testing services has also changed the way that new drivers plan and obtain their P-plates. Therefore, new drivers who are interested in obtaining their P-plates as quickly as possible will benefit greatly by planning early.
What TfNSW Is Doing to Ease Pressure
In response to the increased demand for services related to converted overseas licences, Transport for New South Wales has recently expanded its availability of online support tools for driving supervisors e.g. parents, guardians, other full-licence drivers to assist learners to complete the process of acquiring a converted overseas licence. With the addition of online knowledge testing, combined with Roundtrip's digital driving logbook, an effort is made to eliminate as many in-person sessions as possible while making the entire learning process more streamlined and efficient. The ultimate goal of these improvements is to reduce waiting periods, improve safety, and allow individuals to move through the entire process of obtaining their license with less hassle.
What Learner Drivers Should Do in 2026 — Practical Tips & Advice
New testing processes and the number of applicants have significantly increased. Because of this, 2026 will require learners to be organized and proactive in their approach. The earlier learners are prepared and the better they understand the new processes, the easier it will be for them to nd no delays, diminished stress, and transition smoothly from their L-plates to their provisional license status.
Prepare Early: Schedule and Study Before Demand Spikes
The best way to get ahead of long wait periods is by getting started early. By using the online Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) as soon as you are prepared, learners will have the opportunity to complete it at their convenience as opposed to feeling rushed or overwhelmed at the last minute. Additionally, by utilizing the official Roundtrip app beginning from the first day, learners can ensure that their driving hours are accurately recorded in a secure and safe manner.
Key Tips:
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Complete the online DKT as soon as you are ready.
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Do not book your test during busy periods.
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Use the Roundtrip app to log every supervised driving hour.
If You’re From Overseas or Hold a Foreign Licence — Don’t Wait Too Long to Convert
Changes to the rules regarding international driver's licenses will mean that increased numbers of international drivers will now be required to complete the full testing process. Therefore, if you are an international learner, it is essential to check the documentation requirements now to ensure that you do not incur additional time or costs in 2026.
What you should do:
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Confirm if your country is on List B (meaning full testing is required from the 1st February 2026).
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Start your licence conversion process as soon as possible.
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Book your knowledge and driving tests as early as possible, so you can secure a spot for your tests.
Be Ready for Delays — and Stay Safe on the Road While You Wait
Increased demand means there will be longer waiting times for test appointments for some learners. By planning ahead, you will minimise the impact delays will have on your work, study or travel plans. Ensure you use the time prior to your test to develop your driving skills so you can feel confident and safe.
Things to Remind Yourself:
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When planning your licence timeline, make sure you allow for the possibility of delayed tests.
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Use TfNSW supervising-driver guides to assist you in developing safe habits.
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Increase your awareness of heavy vehicles, road-share driving, and high-risk situations to help you become a better driver.
Conclusion
In 2026, NSW is experiencing one of its most significant changes to the licensing system with the introduction of the online testing format, the introduction of digital log-books and significantly increased requirements for overseas licence conversion processes. Increased demand and modernised systemic changes can create challenges. Therefore, it is important to remain prepared. As someone who has supported thousands of learners in making the transition to modern licensing systems, I've seen the learners who will perform the best (based upon my evaluations) are those who are informed, well-organised, and willing to adapt as soon as they are aware of changes to the licensing system.
The sooner you take proactive measures to book your tests and convert your licence or record hours, the more effective, less stressful and safer your overall transition to modern licensing will be. The great thing about NSW now, is that they are providing more and better tools to assist learners than at any prior time. From your ability to do your DKTs online, to improved resources available to supervising drivers.
Continuing with the updates we are getting, it is important to check the Transport for NSW and Service NSW websites for any new announcements or news that is regularly added. Getting ready to be able to apply for a Driver Authority is crucial to not run into problems down the line with delays in getting your driver authority. The sooner you get familiar with your future vehicle and how to operate it safely, the closer you will be to obtaining your Driver Authority. Are you ready to start your driving experience today? You should begin your research and remain current with the latest changes in the rules and regulations related to driving, as well as knowing the current situation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. What changes to the driving test have occurred in 2026?
There are many significant changes to be aware of for the 2026 driving test: more online knowledge tests, online digital log books, more restrictive rules for overseas drivers' licenses, and now there are more tests than ever being applied for.
2. Can I take the driver knowledge test (DKT) online?
Yes, you can! Learners can now take the DKT online from home that makes the process easier and more flexible.
3. What app is a digital log-book approved in NSW?
The only official digital log-book that is receiving acceptance from Transport for NSW and Service NSW is Roundtrip.
4. Will all overseas drivers be required to pass both tests in 2026?
Since 1 February 2026, many overseas drivers will be required to take and pass both the knowledge and driving tests regardless of where they are from (but it's especially true for "List B" countries).
5. Why are the wait times to sit driving tests taking longer?
With the increased number of driving learners and overseas drivers seeking to sit for a test, there are now more applications for testing than before, which will result in longer waiting periods to take a driving test.