Driver Licence Translation Australia
LEXIGO driver licence translations are accepted by:
- VicRoads (Victoria) — for licence conversion and identity verification
- Service NSW / Roads and Maritime Services (New South Wales)
- Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) (Queensland)
- Department of Transport (Western Australia)
- Service SA (South Australia)
- Service Tasmania
- Access Canberra (ACT)
- Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) (Northern Territory)
- Department of Home Affairs — as supporting identity documentation for visa applications
- Australian insurance companies — for claims processing and policy applications
- Australia Post — for identity verification services
Why do I need my driver licence translated?
If you hold a driver licence issued outside Australia, you'll need a NAATI certified English translation in several common situations. Each Australian state and territory requires international licence holders to carry a certified translation alongside their original licence when driving on a foreign licence — it's a legal requirement, not optional.
When converting your overseas licence to an Australian licence, all state road authorities require a NAATI certified translation of the original. Without it, your application cannot be processed.
Driving on a foreign licence in Australia
International visitors and temporary visa holders can drive on their overseas licence for a limited period (typically 3–6 months depending on the state), but must carry a certified English translation at all times if the licence is not in English. Driving without a translation when required is an offence that can result in fines and insurance complications.
If you're involved in an accident while driving on an overseas licence without a certified translation, your insurance claim may be denied.
Driver licences from every country
Driver licence formats vary dramatically worldwide — from credit-card-sized plastic cards to paper booklets, from licences with Latin script to those entirely in Arabic, Chinese, Thai, or Cyrillic. Some countries issue separate licences for different vehicle classes, while others combine everything on one document.
Our NAATI certified translators are experienced with licence formats from every country and understand how to accurately translate licence categories, vehicle classes, conditions, and endorsements into their Australian equivalents where applicable.
We commonly translate driver licences from Chinese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Hindi, Farsi, Thai, Khmer, Nepali, Turkish, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Greek, and many more languages.
Common driver licence scenarios
Licence conversion: When you become a permanent resident or have held a temporary visa for the allowed period, you must convert your overseas licence to an Australian one. Every state road authority requires a NAATI certified translation of your foreign licence as part of this process.
Driving as a visitor or temporary resident: If you're on a tourist, student, working holiday, or temporary work visa, you can drive on your overseas licence — but you must carry a NAATI certified translation if the licence is not in English.
Insurance requirements: Australian car insurance companies require a certified translation of your licence for policy applications and claims. Without it, a claim may be rejected.
Identity verification: A translated driver licence serves as a secondary ID document for bank accounts, rental applications, and government services.
To get started, provide:
- A clear photo or scan of both sides of your driver licence
- Ensure all text, including fine print and licence categories, is legible
- If you hold a separate licence card and paper counterpart (common in some countries), include both
Tip: Place your licence on a dark background when photographing — this helps capture the edges clearly, especially for light-coloured cards.
Your certified driver licence translation includes:
- Full English translation of all information on your licence — front and back
- NAATI certification stamp with the translator's credential number
- Translator's signed certification statement
- All licence classes, conditions, and restrictions clearly translated
- Digital PDF delivered via email
- Optional hard copy via registered post
The translation clearly identifies the issuing authority, licence number, expiry date, and all vehicle categories you are authorised to drive.
Do I need a translation to drive in Australia on my overseas licence?
Yes, if your licence is not in English. All Australian states and territories require you to carry a NAATI certified English translation alongside your original licence when driving. Failing to do so can result in fines.
How long can I drive on my overseas licence in Australia?
This varies by state and visa type. Generally, visitors can drive for up to 3–6 months. Permanent residents typically have 3–6 months to convert their licence. Check your specific state authority for exact timeframes.
Will my insurance be valid without a licence translation?
Most Australian insurers require a certified translation of your overseas licence. Driving without one could void your insurance coverage in the event of a claim.
How much does driver licence translation cost?
Driver licence translation starts from $69. Most licences are a single page and fall within $69–$89.
How quickly can I get my licence translated?
Standard turnaround is 1–2 business days. Same-day express service is available for urgent requests.
Do you translate both sides of the licence?
Yes. We translate all content on both the front and back of your licence, including vehicle categories, conditions, restrictions, and any endorsements.