Hazard Perception Test (HPT)

The Hazard Perception Test (or HPT) is a computer-based test that you need to pass before you can take the Driving Test and get your provisional P1 licence. It measures how well you can recognise potentially dangerous situations on the road.

The purpose of the test is to ensure you have the hazard perception skills to drive solo.

After you pass the HPT, you must pass the Driving Test to get your provisional P1 licence.

What's included in the HPT?

There are 15 short videos in the test. You'll be given 2 practice videos before the test begins.

The test questions focus on common crash situations for provisional drivers. In each video, you'll be asked to touch the screen to show when you would slow down, overtake or turn at an intersection.

When to book a Hazard Perception Test?

You should book your HPT when you're close to being ready for the Driving Test.

If you’re 25 or older ⁠– you can take the HPT as soon as you have your learner licence and feel ready.

If you’re under 25 ⁠– you can take the HPT after you've held your learner licence for at least 10 months. However, there is no pressure to do the test at a particular time. Book it when you're ready.

You'll need to pay the test fee when you make your booking.

Once you've passed the HPT, you need to pass the Driving Test within 15 months. If you don't, you'll need to take the HPT again.

Extra support for taking the test

Languages other than English – The HPT is available in English, Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Greek, Korean, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. An audio version of the test (where you listen to the questions) is also available in these languages.

A free interpreter service is available to people who need to take the test in other languages. 

Additional needs – If you have trouble reading the questions, our staff at the service centre can assist by reading the questions and explaining them for you.

Please call 13 22 13 to make arrangements with a service centre before you book your test.

If you're from a disadvantaged background or Aboriginal community – The Driver Licensing Access Program can help you in your journey to getting a licence.

What happens if I fail?

You can take the test as many times as you need to pass, but you will need to pay the test fee each time.

Safe driving and being able to recognise and respond to hazards will help you pass the test and avoid the most common crash patterns.

Prepare for the test and improve your hazard perception skills by:

• downloading the Hazard Perception Handbook (PDF 2.16MB), or buy it from a service centre
• brushing up on Safe driving behaviour
• doing the Safer Drivers Course
• getting as much driving experience as you can.

HPT practice tests offered by third party websites

Transport for NSW is aware of third party websites offering HPT practice tests and some even request a fee to unlock the test. Transport for NSW does not have any connection with these third party websites. These practice tests are not the same as the NSW HPT and will not help you pass the test. The only way to prepare for the HPT is to read the Hazard Perception Handbook (PDF 2.16MB).