Planning an Australian road trip in a campervan? Looking at motorhomes for sale in Australia? Perhaps you’re considering used motorhomes or used campervans for sale. Before you hit the road in a rental or in your own motorhome, you’ll first need to ensure you have the correct licence.
In this blog, we take a look at the licencing requirements for driving a campervan in Australia, including:
If you already have a current full class C Australian driving licence, good news! You don't need any special licence to drive a campervan as long as it meets certain requirements. The key points to note are that your class C licence means you can drive a campervan that weighs up to 4.5 tonnes in GVM. And, your campervan can’t have more than 12 seats, including the driver. It is worth noting that you have to have had your full licence for at least 12 months to drive a campervan.
Planning an Australian road trip but coming here from another country? You can drive a campervan with your overseas licence, but there are some conditions to note, including:
Although Australia has six different states and two territories, the driving licences are the same across the whole country. These include:
Used for a motor vehicle with a GVM not greater than 4.5 tonnes but not including a bus designed to carry more than 12 seated people, a motorbike, or a motor trike. Licence holders must be at least 17 years old.
Used for any motorbike or motor trike.
Used for motorcycles matching the LAMS (Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme) list of motorcycles of each state.
Used for rigid vehicles with a GVM of more than 4.5 tonnes and up to 8 tonnes. Any towed trailer must not weigh more than 9 tonnes GVM.
Used for rigid vehicles with two axles and a GVM of more than 8 tonnes. Any towed trailer must not weigh more than 9 tonnes GVM.
Used for rigid vehicles with 3 or more axles and a GVM of more than 8 tonnes. Any towed trailer must not weigh more than 9 tonnes GVM. This class also includes articulated buses.
Used for heavy combination vehicles like a prime mover towing a semi-trailer, or rigid vehicles towing a trailer with a GVM of more than 9 tonnes.
Used for multi-combination vehicles like road trains and B-double vehicles.
If you’re an Australian citizen that’s looking to get your class C licence, the process of applying for a licence will vary slightly from state to state. The best course of action is to check the local government site for details and requirements. In most cases, you will be required to book a driving test that will cover driver knowledge, hazard perception and a practical driving test.
If you’re driving a campervan in Australia, always carry a copy of your driver's licence in English. If you’re using an International Driving Permit, you must also carry your original driver's licence. If you have a foreign licence, please ensure:
An official translation needs to be completed by a translator approved by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters. An International Driving Permit can be applied for through your home country’s transport or vehicle association.
Having the proper driving licence is important when you’re driving in Australia. It means that you’ve got a good understanding of the road rules and any restrictions that might apply to you. This means you’re safer to drive, less likely to have an accident and avoid a big fine or prosecution if caught without it.
If you’re caught driving without a licence or with the wrong licence, you could be faced with a fine or prosecution. The potential fines or type of prosecution varies from state to state in Australia. This could be thousands of dollars or two years in jail, so it’s best to follow the rules.
Each state in Australia has its own road rules. However, in 1999 the National Transport Commission presented a common regulatory framework that was approved by the Australian Transport Council. This framework provides guidelines for each state and is reassessed every two years. It means there are common road rules across the country. However, it’s important you research the road rules for each individual state.
Here are some common road rules to be aware of:
For more expert information about the driving rules in Australia, take a look at the National Transport Commission’s Australian Road Rules. This helpful guide outlines road rules in each state or territory.
Wondering where you can park your campervan? Find out more about campervan parking rules in Australia.
Now that you know what licence you’ll need to drive a campervan, it could be time to think about buying a motorhome with KEA. And to help you get great value for money, KEA has a range of used motorhomes and ex rental campervans for sale.
KEA Motorhomes is backed by thl who own and operate the popular maui, Britz and Mighty motorhome rentals across Australia. This means KEA can offer a great ‘try before you buy’ option! Rent from thl and if you buy a motorhome within three months of your hire, we'll give you your rental cost back!
Ready to buy a motorhome with KEA? Take the first step and check out the great range online today.
Keen to know more about RV ownership? Check out more of our helpful blogs:
Looking for campervan travel ideas? Check out some of the best things to do in Australia by reading some of our inspiring travel blogs.