L and P Plate Restrictions in Adelaide: A Complete Guide

Getting your driver’s licence in Adelaide is an exciting milestone, but it comes with specific rules for learner (L) and provisional (P) drivers. Whether you’re just starting out or progressing to your full licence, understanding these restrictions is crucial for safe and legal driving.

This guide breaks down the key rules for L and P plate drivers in South Australia, so you can stay compliant and confident on the road.

Licence Stages in South Australia

Before earning a full licence, drivers must progress through three stages:

1. Learner’s Permit (L Plates)

2. Provisional Licence (P1 – Red P Plates & P2 – Green/White P Plates)

3. Full Licence

Each stage has its own restrictions, which we’ll explain in detail.

Learner’s Permit (L Plates) Rules in Adelaide

To get your L plates, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Pass a theory test (online or at Service SA).

• Hold the permit for 12 months (if under 25) or 6 months (if 25+).

Key Restrictions for L Plate Drivers

• Supervision Required – Must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver (held licence for at least 2 years).

• Speed Limit – Cannot exceed 100 km/h, even if the posted limit is higher.

• L Plates Display – Must be clearly visible on the front and rear of the vehicle.

• Passenger Limits – No more than one passenger aged 16-20 (unless immediate family).

• Zero Alcohol – BAC must be 0.00.

• Mobile Phones – No use at all, including hands-free or Bluetooth.

• Demerit Points – Licence suspended if you accumulate 4 or more points.

• Towing – Allowed (e.g., trailers, caravans), but check interstate rules if travelling.

• High-Powered Vehicles – Banned unless an exemption applies.

Provisional P1 Licence (Red P Plates) Rules

After holding your L plates for the required time, you can progress to a P1 licence if you:

• Are at least 17 years old.

• Complete 75 hours of supervised driving (including 15 hours at night).

• Pass the Hazard Perception Test and a practical driving test (VORT or CBT&A).

Key Restrictions for P1 Drivers

• Speed Limit – Max 100 km/h.

• P Plates Display – Red P plates must be shown front and rear.

• Passenger Limits (Under 25) – Only one passenger aged 16-20 (unless family or supervised).

• Zero Alcohol – BAC must be 0.00.

• Mobile Phones – No use, even hands-free.

• Demerit Points – Licence suspended at 4 points.

• High-Powered Vehicles – Restricted unless exempt.

Provisional P2 Licence (Green/White P Plates) Rules

After 12 months on P1, you can upgrade to P2 if you:

• Are at least 18 years old.

• Have no suspensions in the last 6 months.

Key Restrictions for P2 Drivers

• Speed Limit – Still capped at 100 km/h.

• P Plates Display – Green or white P plates required.

• Passengers – No restrictions (unless court-ordered).

• Zero Alcohol – BAC must be 0.00.

• Mobile Phones – No use, including hands-free.

• Demerit Points – Suspension at 4 points.

• High-Powered Vehicles – Restricted unless exempt.

Full Licence Requirements

To get your full licence, you must:

• Be at least 20 years old.

• Hold a provisional licence for 3 years total (1 year P1 + 2 years P2).

Once eligible, you’ll receive a renewal notice from Service SA.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do L-platers have a curfew in Adelaide?

No, learner drivers can drive at any time as long as they’re supervised.

2. What cars can L-platers drive?

Any roadworthy car that isn’t high-powered (unless exempt).

3. Can I supervise a learner if I have a broken leg?

No—the supervisor must be fully capable of controlling the vehicle if needed.

4. Who can sit next to a learner driver?

A person with a full licence for at least 2 years in the same vehicle class.

Ready to Drive with Confidence?

Mastering the road takes practice, and Welcome Driving School connects you with expert instructors for tailored lessons. Find a driving instructor in Adelaide today and get on the path to your full licence!