Everything You Need to Know About DKT in Australia

As a first-timer, you may be wondering ”What is the DKT, and why does it matter?”. To answer that question, you must first imagine a bridge that connects your aspirations of becoming a licensed driver to the reality of Australia’s ever-bustling and diverse roads.

If you’ve recently signed up for a driver knowledge test (DKT) and are ready to begin the exciting journey of becoming a skilled and knowledgeable driver, find more info here to help you secure your chances of passing on your first attempt.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll extensively discuss everything you need to know about the DKT in Australia.

Overview of the Test Process

The DKT is every aspiring driver’s gateway to navigating the roads of Australia with confidence and responsibility. The test is structured to assess the candidate’s knowledge and commitment to the rules of the road.

The DKT is a computer-based exam. There are 45 multiple-choice questions, usually split into two sections. Section one focuses on general road rules. Section two, on the other hand, focuses on road safety. The passing score for the DKT is 90%.

To be eligible for the DKT in Australia, you’ll have to:

• Be at least 16.
• Have a legal presence in Australia.
• Have a valid means of identification.
• Pass a visual exam.
• Pay the stipulated procedure fees.

If you meet all of the following requirements, do the following to get your license:

• Schedule an appointment with the DMV or simply head down to the centre to wait your turn.
• When it’s your turn, go to the counter and pay the stipulated fees.
• Proceed to the exam hall and take the test.
• Exhaust the given 30 minutes.
• Return to the waiting room and wait for your test results.
• Based on the score, decide whether to do a resit.

What to Expect

You may already have a lot on your anticipation list for the DKT. However, there’s a chance you may not be expecting the right things. Here are a few things to expect as you progress through the licensing stages:

State-specific content

Different regions in Australia have specific laws that govern them. These laws may differ slightly from each other. You need to enlighten yourself about those that are specific to your region. The questions on your DKT will focus on these specific rules.

If you buy study materials from your state’s transportation authority, you should be able to access all the relevant information that you need to pass the test. Even after passing, you’ll use the knowledge to stay on the right side of road laws. There are very hefty fees for going against the rules of the road.

Booking Appointments

You’ll need to book an appointment to take the DKT at a local Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) center or other authorized testing location.

Hazard Perception Test

The HPT is a prerequisite in some states. This test assesses your ability to predict potential danger. You’ll be given real-life scenarios to manoeuvre, and the assessment officer will grade your ability to respond to potential hazards on the road.

How to Pass the DKT on the First Try

Here are a few pivotal tips that can spike your chances of passing the DKT on your very first attempt:

• Extensively study the driver’s manual. It contains all the information both current and prospective drivers should know.
• Devote several hours to practice tests.
• Ensure that you have all the necessary documents available before D-Day.
• You’re allowed to schedule the test at your convenience. Pick a day on which you have no other commitments so you can focus on the test.
• Maintain a level-headed mind all through the test.
• On D-Day, get good sleep, enough food and water, and enough time on your hands before showing up.

After the DKT: What’s Next?

After you’ve passed the DKT, the next steps in your journey toward getting a driver’s license depend on your specific situation and the type of license you signed up for. However, there are a few typical steps that follow. They include:

Learner’s permit

For new drivers, this is typically the next step. A permit will allow you to drive under adult supervision. This adult must also be a fully licensed driver. In a few Australian states, the law mandates newbie drivers to have their permit for a given period (which is usually six months).

During this waiting period, the candidates can gain practical driving experience. They’ll also need to log a specified number of hours of supervised driving during this phase, which varies by state.

Provisional License

There are two classes of provisional licenses: P1 and P2. The P1 license typically comes with conditions such as a limit on the number of passengers, zero blood alcohol concentration, and specific vehicle restrictions for newly licensed drivers.

Once you’ve had the P1 for a specific period, you’ll be eligible for the P2, which has fewer restrictions.

Unrestricted License

After completing the provisional license period, new drivers can apply for a full, unrestricted driver’s license. This typically comes with no additional conditions, and the best part is that you have the same driving privileges as any fully licensed driver.

Wrapping Up

Taking the DKT is a foundational step for getting a driving license in Australia. Most people do not pay attention to it because they write it off as insignificant. This move often turns out to be a mistake.

If you do not do due diligence to prepare for your DKT, you’ll find yourself stuck in the same spot for months and paying retake fees over and over.

FAQ

How long does the driver’s license last?

An Australian driver’s license is valid for 5 years. After this time, you’ll be mandated to retake the license exam. You’ll have to pay another fee before taking the renewal exam.

What’s the passing score for a DKT in Australia?

90% is the passing score for a DKT in Australia. This means you have to correctly answer at least 33 out of the 45 multiple-choice questions.

How much will a DKT cost in Australia?

DKT fees in Australia vary in different provinces. There may be extra costs aside from the license fee that you would also need to sort out. Do well to consult with your local DMV for accurate quotations.