The Hazard Perception Test

The Hazard Perception Test is a computer-based test that checks how well you can spot hazards when driving on the road and how to respond safely. The Hazard Perception Test can now be taken online with your first attempt free. Find out how you can register and take the test today!

What is hazard perception?

Good hazard perception means being able to identify and respond to potential hazards in the safest way possible. Hazard perception skills take a long time to develop, so new drivers are more at risk of crashing (External link) in their first 12 months of driving. 

As you practice better hazard perception and gain more experience on the road, your crash risk as a new driver goes down. Knowing how to identify and respond safely to hazards is an important lifesaving skill that protects everyone sharing the road. 

About the Hazard Perception Test

The Hazard Perception Test is a computer-based test that focuses on scenarios where probationary drivers are more likely to be involved in a crash. The test assesses your ability to recognise and respond to potential hazards in the safest way possible. 

The Hazard Perception Test can be taken by novice drivers, those who need to convert to a probationary licence and those who will convert to a full licence.

The Hazard Perception Test needs to be completed before you can take the Drive Test.

To take the Hazard Perception Test you must hold a current Victorian car learner permit and be at least 17 years and 11 months of age. You can now choose to take the test online or in-person.

The Hazard Perception Test Online (HPTO)

Taking the Hazard Perception Test Online means you can register and launch the test through your myVicRoads account at a time that suits you, using a compatible device with internet connection.

Your first attempt to take the Hazard Perception Test Online is now free.

When you take the Hazard Perception Test Online your first attempt is free. Taking the test online means you won’t need to book and pay for an appointment at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.

If you’re unsuccessful passing the test, you’ll need to pay the test fee of $20.40 for each new attempt.

If you’ve been unsuccessful passing the Hazard Perception Test In-person, you’ll still be eligible for a first attempt free if you register to take the Hazard Perception Test Online.

If you complete the Hazard Perception Test In-person, the test fee and appointment fee will remain.

Two-step verification

Two-step verification is a security feature which requires you to input a 6-digit code, in addition to your email address and password when logging into your myVicRoads account. Your unique 6-digit code can be sent to your mobile phone either as an SMS or to an installed authenticator app depending on your chosen settings in your myVicRoads account.

Two-step verification makes it harder for someone to pretend they are you, log in to your account and complete Hazard Perception Test Online.

You cannot access the Hazard Perception Test Online without activating two-step verification.

How to take the test online

  1. Login to your myVicRoads account
  2. From your dashboard, go to 'Licences & permits'
  3. Activate two-step verification (if you haven't set this up already)
  4. Click on 'Register for the Hazard Perception Test Online'

Please note, from 15 August 2022, your first test attempt will be free under the Motorist Package and Safe Driver Program.

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Information for overseas licence or permit holders

To be eligible to take the Hazard Perception Test Online (HPTO), you must have completed the Learner Permit Test (online or in-person) within the past 12 months. 

After completing the Learner Permit Test, your next steps are:

  • have your identity and licence verified
  • complete the Hazard Perception Test Online or in-person, and
  • complete your Drive Test

Your identity and overseas licence verification can be completed when you visit a Customer Service Centre for your Hazard Perception Test In-person or, if you're taking the Hazard Perception Test Online then you'll need to book a separate overseas licence verification appointment before you can register.

Book a licence verification appointment (External link)

The Hazard Perception Test Online is currently only available in English. To take the test in another language, you'll need to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person.

The Hazard Perception Test In-person

The Hazard Perception Test In-person can be taken at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre if you:

  • don't have access to a computer or internet to take the Hazard Perception Test Online or
  • wish to do the test in a language other than English or require a translator or interpreter.
    • The in-person test is available in the following languages: Albanian, Arabic, Cambodian, Chinese (Mandarin), English, Macedonian, Persian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhalese, Somali, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese.

How to book the Hazard Perception Test In-person

To book an appointment to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person you can:

* A card payment fee (External link) applies

** All VicRoads Customer Service Centre's accept cash except for:

Don’t forget to bring your car learner permit card or your original evidence of identity documents, if your learner permit is lost or misplaced or you don’t have a learner permit.

You won’t be able to take the Drive Test until you pass the Hazard Perception Test. We recommend you leave at least a few days between taking your Hazard Perception Test In-person and booking your Drive Test in case you need additional attempts to pass.

Is the Hazard Perception Test the same as the Drive Test?

No, the Drive Test (External link) focuses on your car handling skills and your ability to demonstrate safe driving on the road, whereas the Hazard Perception Test is computer based, and assesses how you would react to hazards such as other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. 

How long are Hazard Perception Test results valid for?

Hazard Perception Test results are only valid for 12 months, which means you must successfully complete your Drive Test (External link)within 12 months of completing the Hazard Perception Test or be required to do it again.

How long is the test?

There are 25 driving scenarios presented in the test. You’ll be given a total of 45 minutes to complete the test. You must respond to all 25 driving scenarios within the 45 minutes, or your attempt will be automatically considered unsuccessful.

Is there a practice test I can take?

Yes. A practice test is available on our website, free of charge. Go to The Hazard Perception Practice Test webpage. 

What happens if I don’t pass the Drive Test within 12 months after passing the Hazard Perception Test? 

If you haven’t passed the Drive Test (External link) within 12 months of passing the Hazard Perception Test, you’ll need to pass the Hazard Perception Test again

What if I don’t pass the Hazard Perception Test but I’ve booked my Drive Test for the same day?

If you’re unsuccessful in passing your Hazard Perception Test Online or In-person and have booked your Drive Test (External link) on the same day: 

  • you won’t be able to take your Drive Test on that day
  • you’ll need to make a new appointment to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person or attempt the Hazard Perception Test Online and 
  • you’ll need to pay an appointment transfer fee as the Drive Test appointment must be rescheduled for another day.
Can I use a concession card?

No, there are no concessions available for appointment, test or licence fees. 

Can I book my Hazard Perception Test and Drive Test on the same day?

Yes, you can book your Hazard Perception Test In-person and Drive Test (External link) on the same day, however you’ll need to pay two appointment fees

Can I still take the Drive Test if I don’t pass the Hazard Perception Test on the same day?

No, you won’t be allowed to take the Drive Test (External link) on the same day, if you don’t pass the Hazard Perception Test. If you don't pass the Hazard Perception Test you'll need to:

  • make a new appointment to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person or online again and
  • reschedule your Drive Test.
Can I present my 120 hours MyLearners or Logbook at my Hazard Perception Test In-person?

Yes, we encourage you to present the 120 hours prior to your Drive Test (External link).

What if I need to change my appointment?

An appointment can only be changed by the appointment holder once it’s been booked. If you need to change your appointment, you’ll need to pay an additional appointment fee. The Hazard Perception Test fee will get transferred to the new appointment (or you’ll get a refund if at least 24 hours notice is given.) Go to driver licence and learner permit fees page for more.

What if I don’t give enough notice to change or cancel?

If you don’t give us at least 24 hours notice, you’ll lose your appointment and test fees and won’t be able to get a refund.

What if I’m running late to the appointment?

If you’re more than five minutes late, you’ll need to re-book your appointment for the next available timeslot and pay another appointment fee.

Where can I learn more? 
How many hours of supervised driving practice do I need before I can take the HPTO?

All learner drivers under the age of 21 must complete 120 hours of driving practice to be eligible to book a Drive Test and should be close to getting their 120 hours of supervised driving experience (including at least 20 hours at night) before taking the HPTO. 

Is the HPTO the same as the Hazard Perception Test In-person?

Yes. The HPTO is the same computer-based test taken in-person at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. 

How much does it cost to take the HPTO?

Your first attempt to take the Hazard Perception Test Online is free under the Motorist Package and Safe Driver Discount Program (External link).

You’ll need to pay the test fee for every new test attempt. See Driver licence and permit fees for more information.

I heard taking the test online is free, is this true? 

Yes. Your first attempt to take the Hazard Perception Test Online is free under the new Motorist Package and Safe Driver Program (External link).

I've already attempted to take the Hazard Perception Test at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre but I was unsuccessful, am I still eligible for the free attempt?

If you’ve been unsuccessful passing the Hazard Perception Test In-person, you’ll still be eligible for a first attempt free if you register to take the Hazard Perception Test Online.

If I’ve recently enrolled into the Hazard Perception Test Online and paid the test fee, can I get a refund?

No. If you registered and paid to take the Hazard Perception Test Online before the 15 August, you won’t be eligible to get a refund on the fees already paid.

Are the in-person test and appointment fees also waived?

No. Fees for the Hazard Perception Test In-person remain in place. See driver licence and learner permit fees.

Is the fee to take the Drive Test also waived?

No. Fees for the Dive Test remain in place. See driver licence and learner permit fees.

What if I booked to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person but now I want to take the test online as it's free, can I cancel my appointment and get a refund?

Your in-person booking is made up of two fee components – the test fee and the appointment fee. See driver licence and learner permit fees.

If you've made an appointment to take the Hazard Perception Test In-person and would like to cancel this appointment to take the test online, you'll be eligible for a refund of the test fee only. You’ll need to provide us with at least 24 hours notice before cancelling your appointment. The appointment fee of $19.60 is non-refundable. 

After I register for the test, how long will I get to complete it?

You'll have access to the HPTO for 12 months from the date you registered. If you don’t take the test within 12 months, you must re-register and pay a new test fee

Your first test attempt to take the Hazard Perception Test Online is free under the Motorist Package and Safe Driver Discount Program (External link). A test fee applies for every new test attempt.

What do I need to access the HPTO?

To take the test online, you’ll need a myVicRoads account, adequate internet connection, a credit card* to pay any subsequent test attempts and a computer or compatible device such as a desktop computer (a widescreen monitor is recommended). *A card payment fee applies when using VISA or Mastercard.

To get the best experience, check that you have the following set up:

  • A desktop computer. A widescreen monitor is recommended for best experience
  • A computer mouse. Before the test, check that it clicks correctly
  • Make sure your volume works and is turned on
  • Make sure you’re in a place that’s quiet for you to focus 
  • Make sure that your computer’s browser is up to date. You’ll need the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge on your desktop to complete the test.

Please note: It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct set up, working device and operating system before starting the test. Any errors which occur due to system, device or browser incompatibility or internet issues may interrupt your experience which could result in you having to retake the test and pay a new test fee.

If you’re unable to setup for the Hazard Perception Test Online correctly, you’ll need to book your Hazard Perception Test In-person

Why is it mandatory for Hazard Perception Test Online customers to have two-step verification activated?

The Hazard Perception Test Online is a formal test. It's part of what certifies you as a safe and capable person to hold a Victorian diver licence.

Two-step verification makes it harder for someone to pretend they are you and to log into your account. As it is a test, it is essential that you are the person taking the test and two-step verification provides this authentication. Setting this up on your myVicRoads account is easy. See two-step verification to learn more.

Can I use a mobile phone to take the test? 

To see each video clearly, we recommend using a desktop computer with a wide screen monitor, iPad or tablet. Mobile phones are not recommended and may affect your ability to observe the whole road scene and react correctly.

Before attempting the actual test, you’ll need to complete a practice test. This will help you determine if the device you’re using is suitable. You’ll also be given an opportunity to switch the device you’re using, before taking the actual test.

Does the HPTO cost the same as taking the test in-person?

Yes. The test fee is the same. From August 2022, your first test attempt taking the Hazard Perception Test Online is free under the.

If you choose to take the test in-person at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre, you’ll also need to pay an appointment fee.

Does the HPTO include a practice test?

Yes. Before you take the test, you’ll be presented with three practice questions. You’ll get feedback after you respond to each scenario telling you if your attempt was successful or unsuccessful. You can attempt the practice test as many times as you need and should keep trying until you respond correctly to at least 2 out of 3 scenarios in the practice test. If you're unsuccessful in the practice test, you should aim to get more supervised driving experience before you try again.

How many attempts do I get to pass the test online?

For every new attempt, a test fee will apply. You’ll be permitted two attempts to pass the test in one day. However, after two unsuccessful attempts in one day, you’ll need to wait until the next day before you can try again.

Do I need to respond to all 25 driving scenarios? 

Yes. For each driving scenario, you’ll need to provide a response or ‘action’. This may be choosing to slow down, turn right, move off or take no action at all. Each scenario will need to be actioned with a response within the 45 minutes or your attempt will be automatically considered unsuccessful.

Can I get help from someone when taking the test?

No. The test should be attempted on your own. The Terms and Conditions you accepted when registering for the HPTO means you have legally agreed to complete the HPTO independently. Attempting to cheat means you may not have the skill to recognise and respond to hazards and be at greater risk of having an accident on the road. 

If I pass the test, will I find out straight away?

Once you complete the test, feedback is displayed onscreen immediately advising you of your result. This may also include ‘coaching statements’ for incorrect responses, so you know which areas you may need improvement or more practice. Your result is also displayed on your myVicRoads account dashboard. VicRoads is notified of your results and a copy is sent to you via email.

If I was unsuccessful taking the test in-person, can I register and take the test online? 

Yes. If you’ve been unsuccessful taking the test at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre, you can register to take the test online.

What if my permit or licence has been suspended, cancelled or disqualified?

If your permit has been suspended, cancelled or disqualified, you’ll still be able to complete the HPTO. However, if your ban period and/or your required learner permit minimum hold time is greater than 12 months, you’ll need to complete the HPTO again including paying for a new test fee. Test results are only valid for 12 months.

How can you ensure people are who they say they are?

Applicants who take the HPTO are required to have their own myVicRoads account including username, password, and associated security details (Authentication details). 
As an additional security step, applicants are also required to correctly answer a set of ‘pre-screening security questions’ online before they can access the test. VicRoads will continue to review the authentication environment and relevant security controls.

What are the pre-screening security questions?

When you launch the test, you’ll be presented with three randomised pre-screening security questions. These questions are generated from existing system data on your myVicRoads account.

What happens if I don’t answer the pre-screening security questions correctly?

All three pre-screening security questions must be answered correctly for you to access the test. After two unsuccessful attempts at answering the security questions, you’ll be locked out of the test for one hour before you can register for the test and try again. 

Under the Road Safety Act 1986 (External link), it is an offence to obtain or to attempt to obtain a driver licence by any false statement, misrepresentation or other dishonest means, and any driver licence so obtained is invalid. VicRoads reserves the right to refuse to issue a driver licence if it has reason to believe that you have sought to obtain it by any false statement, misrepresentation, or other dishonest means.

Help and technical support

Does the HPTO contain any supporting audio? 

Yes. The HPTO contains supporting audio for both the practice test and actual test. Listening to the audio is an optional feature.

I clicked on the button to launch the course, but nothing happened. What should I do?

Please ensure you have enabled popup notifications on your browser settings. When you launch the test, it will open in a new browser on your device.

If I lose internet connection during the test, will I have to start it again?

If you have poor internet connection, need to pause or switch devices during the test, or you close your browser, the 45-minute timer will continue. If you return, you’ll only have the remaining time available to complete the test. Any incomplete test attempts will be automatically considered unsuccessful.

Can I pause the test and continue another time? 

No. If you need to pause or switch devices during the test, or you close your browser, the 45-minute timer will continue. If you return, you’ll only have the remaining time available to complete the test. Any incomplete test attempts will be automatically considered unsuccessful.

What payment methods are available to pay the test fee online? 

The test fee can be paid using either Mastercard or Visa. Please note, a card payment fee applies when using VISA or Mastercard.

Who can I contact if I have any issues with accessing the test?

If you experience any issues accessing the test, you can call the myVicRoads support team on 1300 650 266 Monday-Friday (8.30am-5.30pm) Saturday (8.30am to 12.30pm).

Hazard perception is about being able to observe the whole road scene as a driver and being aware of what's happening around you. Being a safe driver means being able to identify and safely respond to potential hazards on the road.

See, think, do

The three parts of hazard perception you need to practice are: 

  • See: using your eyes to scan the road ahead and spot any hazards.
  • Think: thinking about what you need to do ahead of time to respond safely.
  • Do: acting in response to the hazard you see for example, slowing down or creating more space.

How to improve your hazard perception skills

You get better at hazard perception by: 

  • Scanning for hazards in front and around you.
  • Keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. 
  • Driving at a safe speed for the environment you’re in.
  • Sharing the road safely with others.
  • Giving yourself enough time to slow down.
  • Using the ‘three-second rule.’ 
  • Looking out for changing road conditions or road works.
  • Minimising distractions such as loud music, lots of conversation and the radio.

How to prepare for the Hazard Perception Test 

To help you prepare, you should get lots of supervised driving experience in a range of driving conditions and talk to your supervising driver or instructor about potential hazards and how you might respond to them. 

You can also review your knowledge of the road rules and the stages of driving (External link)for ways to improve your hazard perception on the myLearners website (External link). You can also take the practice test which is still available on the VicRoads website, free of charge.

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