Published
Queensland learner reference
The hazard perception test checks your ability to recognise developing traffic hazards and respond at a suitable time. For Queensland car learners, passing it comes before booking the practical driving test.
Learning to notice a problem early is also a skill to practise during everyday driving. Our practical learner driver support includes observation and hazard awareness alongside steering, speed and manoeuvres.
When can a car learner take the test?
- You generally need to have held your car learner licence for at least six months.
- TMR sends an eligibility email if you have an email address registered with the department.
- You must pass before you can book your practical driving test.
The online test usually takes 15 to 30 minutes and requires an internet connection. You pay a fee to access it, with access available for up to 12 months. Use TMR's car hazard perception test page for the current fee, eligibility and official test link.
If you cannot complete the online test, contact TMR for help. Motorcycle learners, returning drivers and people with an older P1 licence should check the requirements for their situation rather than assume the car-learner timing applies unchanged.
Practise scanning, recognising and responding
A hazard can develop ahead, beside or behind your car. Learning to notice it early gives you more time to decide what to do. The original article's three-part approach remains useful:
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Scan
Keep looking across the road environment. Notice traffic queues, side streets, crossings, parked vehicles and people who may move into your path.
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Recognise
Think about what could change and which situations need a response now. A pedestrian near a crossing or a car edging out of a driveway may require your attention before the situation becomes urgent.
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Respond
Choose a safe response, such as adjusting speed or leaving more space, while continuing to observe other traffic. Avoid concentrating so hard on one hazard that you miss another.
TMR's hazard perception explanation and practice resources give further guidance. Talk through the hazards you notice with your supervising driver or instructor when it is safe to do so.
Watch the original hazard perception video on YouTube. The written steps above explain the central skill; use the current TMR pages for today's test requirements.
The online test is one part of getting ready
Passing the hazard perception test does not replace your learner holding period, supervised practice or practical assessment. Learners under 25 normally need an approved logbook with 100 supervised hours, including 10 at night, unless an exemption applies. Learners aged 25 or over do not have to complete that logbook requirement.
Check the full learner-to-provisional steps and practical test requirements before arranging your assessment. Your instructor can help you work on skills that need more practice.
About the original 2021 advice
This article was first published during the 2021 change to hazard perception testing. The temporary option to take the hazard perception test after the practical test ended in July 2021. That transition is historical and is not an option for learners booking a test now.