From 1 July 2008, a probationary (P1) driver will not be allowed to carry more than one peer passenger when driving. The penalties for committing this offence will be three demerit points and a fine equal to three penalty units.
A peer passenger is any person aged between 16 and 21, but does not include the driver's spouse, domestic partner, sibling or step - sibling.
This regulation does not apply to a probationary (P1) driver who is -
- a member of the police force and is driving a motor vehicle in the course of his or her duties, or
- driving an emergency vehicle in the course of his or her employment or duties, or in accordance with any terms of a contract or any engagement, or
- driving in an emergency providing emergency transport to hospital, or has an experienced driver sitting beside him or her.
No exemption is required from VicRoads when a probationary (P1) driver is driving a vehicle in the above circumstances.
Applications for an exemption from the Peer Passenger Restriction can be made on Hardship Grounds
Exemptions may only be granted by VicRoads if the nature of the person’s employment, essential activities or family circumstances is such that compliance with the restrictions would impose undue hardship to the person or the person’s family. In considering an exemption, VicRoads must also have regard to the likely effect of the exemption on safe, efficient and equitable road use in Victoria.
If an exemption is issued, it will be made conditional and include restrictions. This information will be sent to the probationary driver in writing and must be carried by the driver at all times when driving the high powered vehicle.
VicRoads may cancel an exemption if the probationary driver's licence is cancelled or suspended.
The application form 'exemption from peer passenger restriction [PDF, 125KB, 5pp]' must be completed and sent with documentary evidence of hardship to:
VicRoads
Exemptions
Locked Bag 5000
KEW VIC 3101