Hazard Perception Test

Preparing & Taking the Hazard Perception Test Online in Melbourne. Your first attempt is free.

What is the Hazard Perception Test?

The Hazard Perception Test is a computer-based assessment that evaluates your ability to identify and respond to potential dangers while driving. Required for all learner permit applicants in Victoria, this test measures how quickly and accurately you can spot developing hazards in real-world driving scenarios.

During the test, you’ll watch a series of video clips filmed from a driver’s perspective. Each clip contains at least one developing hazard – a situation that may require you to change speed or direction. Your task is to touch the screen as soon as you identify each hazard. The earlier you correctly identify a hazard, the higher your score.

Understanding the Test Format

The Hazard Perception Test consists of multiple video scenarios showing everyday driving situations on Melbourne and Victorian roads. You’ll need to score at least the pass mark to successfully complete this component of your learner permit test.

Each video clip runs for approximately 20-30 seconds, and you can score up to 5 points per hazard depending on how quickly you respond. However, clicking too frequently or randomly will result in point deductions, so accuracy and genuine hazard recognition are essential.

How do I take the test?

Step 1: Prepare for the test

To pass the test, you should:

  • get plenty of supervised driving experience in various conditions
  • practice spotting hazards and discussing them with your supervisor
  • review road rules and hazard perception techniques on the myLearners websiteopens in a new tab.

To improve your hazard perception, practice these steps:

  1. See – Scan the road for potential hazards.
  2. Think – Plan your response to the hazard.
  3. Do – Act by adjusting your speed or position on the road.

A free practice test is available through Hazard perception practice tests for probationary driversopens in a new tab on the Transport Victoria website.

Step 2: Taking the Hazard Perception Test

Taking the Hazard Perception Test Online

Your first online attempt is free. To take the test online, you must:

  1. Have a myVicRoads account, and log into it.
  2. Enable passkeys or two-step verification for added security.
  3. Click on the ‘Licences & permits’ box.  Scroll down and click on ‘Register for the Hazard Perception Test Online’.
  4. Complete the test on a compatible device with a good internet connection. We recommend a desktop computer, laptop, iPad or tablet. Phones are not recommended.

If you don’t pass the first time, each new attempt costs $20.70.

How to Take the Hazard Perception Test Online

The Hazard Perception Test is conducted at VicRoads testing centers throughout Melbourne as part of your learner permit application. Here’s what you need to know:

Before Your Test:

  • Book your learner permit test appointment online through the VicRoads website or by visiting a customer service center
  • Bring appropriate identification documents
  • Ensure you’ve studied the Victorian Road to Solo Driving handbook
  • Complete practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format

During Your Test:

  • You’ll sit at a computer station with a touch screen
  • Staff will provide instructions on how to use the system
  • The test is self-paced – you can take breaks between videos if needed
  • Focus on identifying genuine hazards rather than touching the screen randomly

After Your Test:

  • Results are provided immediately
  • If you pass both the Hazard Perception Test and the road rules knowledge test, you’ll receive your learner permit
  • If unsuccessful, you can rebook and retake the test after the required waiting period

How to Prepare for Hazard Perception Test

Success on the Hazard Perception Test requires more than memorization – it demands genuine hazard awareness skills that will serve you throughout your driving life.

Study the Road Rules: Understanding Victoria’s road rules provides the foundation for recognizing what constitutes a hazard. Thoroughly review the Road to Solo Driving handbook, paying special attention to sections on defensive driving and hazard awareness.

Practice with Official Resources: VicRoads provides practice Hazard Perception Tests on their website. These simulations closely mirror the actual test format and help you understand the types of hazards you’ll encounter. Regular practice improves your response time and accuracy.

Develop Real-World Awareness: When traveling as a passenger, actively observe the road environment. Identify potential hazards before they develop – pedestrians near crossings, cars in driveways, cyclists merging, changing traffic signals, and adverse weather conditions. This builds the instinctive awareness you’ll need.

Understand Common Melbourne Hazards: Melbourne’s driving environment presents unique challenges including tram tracks, hook turns, changing weather conditions, heavy pedestrian traffic in the CBD, and diverse road users. Familiarize yourself with these specific situations.

Learn Proper Scanning Techniques: Effective hazard perception requires systematic visual scanning. Practice looking far ahead, checking mirrors regularly, monitoring blind spots, and maintaining awareness of your peripheral vision.

Take Timed Practice Sessions: Simulate test conditions by taking timed practice tests. This helps manage test anxiety and improves your ability to spot hazards quickly under pressure.

Common Hazards You'll Encounter

The Hazard Perception Test includes various scenarios you’ll face on Melbourne roads:

  • Pedestrian hazards: People stepping off curbs, children playing near roads, pedestrians crossing between parked cars
  • Vehicle hazards: Cars pulling out from driveways, sudden braking ahead, vehicles changing lanes without indicating
  • Road condition hazards: Wet or slippery surfaces, poor visibility, roadworks and construction zones
  • Traffic signal changes: Lights turning amber, pedestrian crossings activating
  • Cyclist and motorcyclist movements: Riders merging, changing position, or approaching intersections
  • Animal hazards: Pets or wildlife near the roadway

Parked vehicle hazards: Doors opening, vehicles beginning to move

What if I have an Overseas Licence or Permit?

If you hold a valid overseas driver’s licence or permit, the requirements for obtaining your Victorian licence depend on your specific circumstances and the country that issued your licence.

Full Overseas Licence Holders:

If you hold a full (not provisional or learner) overseas licence, you may be eligible to convert it to a Victorian licence without taking the Hazard Perception Test or driving test, depending on which country issued your licence. Victoria has licence recognition agreements with many countries including the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and several European and Asian nations.

However, even if you’re exempt from testing, you must still visit a VicRoads customer service center to have your overseas licence assessed and converted. You’ll need to provide your original overseas licence, proof of identity, and demonstrate you meet Victoria’s medical and eyesight standards.

Provisional or Learner Permit Holders:

If your overseas licence is provisional or you hold a learner permit, you’ll generally need to complete Victoria’s graduated licensing system. This typically includes passing the Hazard Perception Test and road rules knowledge test to obtain your learner permit, followed by the required learning period and practical driving test.

Non-Recognized Licence Holders:

If your licence is from a country not recognized under Victoria’s reciprocal arrangements, you’ll need to go through the complete licensing process as a new driver. This includes:

  • Passing the road rules knowledge test
  • Successfully completing the Hazard Perception Test
  • Obtaining your learner permit and completing the mandatory 120 hours of supervised driving
  • Passing the practical driving test

How Monika's Driving School Helps You Succeed

At Monika’s Driving School, our comprehensive driving lessons package goes beyond helping you pass tests – we build confident, safe drivers who excel at hazard perception naturally.

Specialized Hazard Awareness Training: Our experienced instructors dedicate specific lesson time to developing your hazard perception skills. We drive through diverse Melbourne locations, actively coaching you to identify and respond to real hazards as they develop. This practical experience is invaluable for both test success and lifelong safe driving.

Personalized Instruction: Every learner is different. Our instructors assess your current awareness level and tailor lessons to strengthen your specific areas for improvement. Whether you need help with urban hazards, freeway situations, or residential area challenges, we provide focused training.

Test Preparation Guidance: We provide comprehensive preparation strategies, share insights about what examiners look for, explain common mistakes to avoid, and offer resources for effective home study. Our students consistently achieve high pass rates on their Hazard Perception Test.

Real Melbourne Road Experience: Learning on the actual roads where you’ll drive builds authentic hazard recognition. We cover diverse environments including CBD hook turns and tram interactions, busy shopping precincts, school zones, residential streets, and various weather conditions.

Defensive Driving Principles: Our instruction emphasizes defensive driving techniques that naturally enhance hazard perception including maintaining safe following distances, positioning for best visibility, anticipating other road users’ actions, and planning escape routes.

Confidence Building: Test anxiety can impair performance. Our supportive, patient instructors help you build genuine confidence through gradual skill development, positive reinforcement, and realistic expectations.

Take the Next Step

Don’t leave your Hazard Perception Test success to chance. With Monika’s Driving School’s expert instruction and comprehensive lessons package, you’ll approach your test with confidence and genuine skills that will serve you for life.

Contact Monika’s Driving School today to learn more about our driving lessons packages and how we can help you ace your Hazard Perception Test. Whether you’re just starting your learner permit journey or need focused preparation before your test, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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