The Hazard Perception Test (HPT) is the step between your learner permit and the drive test for your P plates in Victoria. You must pass it before you can book the drive test.
Key facts
- You need a current Victorian learner permit and must be at least 17 years and 11 months old.
- 25 short driving videos, in up to 45 minutes.
- Online through your myVicRoads account; your first online attempt is free. Further online attempts and in-person tests have a fee (check the VicRoads fee schedule).
- In person at a VicRoads Customer Service Centre if you have no computer or internet, or want a language other than English.
- A pass is valid for 12 months: pass the drive test within that time.
What the HPT tests
Each video shows a traffic situation from the driver's point of view. You respond when it is safe to act, or when you need to react to a hazard, such as slowing for a car that may pull out, choosing a safe gap to turn, or keeping your distance from the car ahead.
How to prepare
- Try the free VicRoads practice test: nine sample videos in the same style.
- Build real experience. The more varied supervised driving you do (night, rain, highways, busy city streets, trams), the easier the HPT feels.
- Practise gap judgement: notice when you could safely turn or join traffic, and when you could not.
- Commentary driving: say out loud what might happen next, such as a door opening, a cyclist moving out, or a tram stopping.
- Keep your space: a following gap of at least 2 to 3 seconds, more in poor conditions.
Where it fits
Learner permit test, then supervised driving, then HPT, then the drive test for your probationary licence. Review the rules with the learner permit guide and free Victorian practice tests.
Checked against official sources on 18 October 2026.