New rules for foreign licence holders in NSW

New South Wales will soon require those from selected countries to complete driving examinations before a licence from the state is issued.

From February 1, 2026, drivers with licences issued by 16 countries will need to pass knowledge and driving tests before a NSW driving licence can be obtained – regardless of their age.

Prior to the new rules coming into effect, only those aged under 25 with licences from the listed countries are required to sit the exams.

The changes bring New South Wales into line with all other Australian states and territories.

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However, regardless of where the driving licence has been issued, all drivers who accumulate 13 demerit points against their name are disqualified from driving on NSW roads.

Back in 2023, the NSW Government introduced rules requiring visa-holders from China, India, Pakistan and Nepal to pass a driving test if they remained in the state for longer than six months.

Transport for NSW does allow those holding a licence from a further 28 different nations to swap their overseas driving licence for a NSW licence without having to undergo testing – with no changes made to those guidelines.

The national authority representing Australian transport agencies has temporarily paused the assessment of overseas agencies seeking to be added to the Recognised Country Scheme – which allows licences to be issued to those from the 28 regions – having identified areas where “the assessment framework could be improved”.