Learning to drive is a significant step toward independence, and in Victoria, the process is designed to ensure every new driver is thoroughly prepared for the challenges of the road. One of the most common questions from learner drivers and their families is: “How many hours do I need with a driving instructor?” The answer depends on your experience, confidence, and learning style, but there are clear guidelines and best practices that can help you plan your journey.

Victorian Learner Driver Requirements

If you’re under 21, you are required to log at least 120 hours of supervised driving before you can take your practical driving test. This must include a minimum of 20 hours of night driving. These hours can be completed with any fully licensed supervising driver, such as a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult.

However, simply accumulating hours is not enough—quality practice and professional instruction are key to becoming a safe and confident driver.

The Value of Professional Driving Lessons

While there’s no legal minimum number of professional lessons required in Victoria, most learner drivers benefit from 8 to 15 hours of lessons with a qualified instructor. Here’s why professional lessons are so valuable:

• Structured Curriculum: Instructors teach according to a proven curriculum, ensuring you cover all necessary skills, from basic vehicle control to advanced hazard perception.
• Expert Feedback: Instructors can quickly spot and correct unsafe habits before they become ingrained.
• Test Preparation: Professional instructors are familiar with VicRoads testing criteria and can help you master complex manoeuvres, roundabouts, merging, and parking.
• Confidence Building: Lessons with a professional provide a safe, supportive environment to tackle challenging driving scenarios.

The Logbook Multiplier: Maximising Your Hours

Victoria offers a unique incentive for learners: for every hour you spend with a qualified driving instructor, you can record three hours in your learner logbook (up to a maximum of 10 hours of professional lessons, which counts for 30 logbook hours). This means:

• 10 hours of professional instruction = 30 logbook hours
• The remaining 90 hours (to reach 120) must be completed with a supervising driver

This system encourages learners to invest in professional lessons for the most critical parts of their training, while still gaining plenty of practice with family or friends.

How to Structure Your Learning

Early Stages (First 30–40 Hours)

• Start with weekly one-hour lessons to build foundational skills: steering, braking, accelerating, and understanding road signs.
• Practice basic manoeuvres and driving in quiet areas with your supervising driver between lessons.

Midway (Next 40–60 Hours)

• Use professional lessons to tackle more complex driving situations: city traffic, highways, multi-lane roads, and night driving.
• Focus on hazard perception, safe gap selection, and defensive driving techniques.

Final Preparation (Last 20–30 Hours)

• Increase lesson frequency as you approach your test date.
• Simulate the VicRoads driving test with your instructor, practice test routes, and address any areas of weakness.
• Fine-tune skills such as parallel parking, three-point turns, and merging onto freeways.

Factors That Influence How Many Lessons You Need

• Previous Experience: Learners with prior driving experience (even overseas) may need fewer lessons.
• Confidence Level: Nervous or anxious drivers often benefit from additional professional support.
• Learning Style: Some people learn quickly through hands-on practice, while others need more repetition and guidance.
• Practice Frequency: The more you drive between lessons, the faster your skills will develop.
• Instructor Quality: A patient, experienced instructor can make a significant difference in how quickly you progress.

Costs to Consider

• Professional Lessons: In Melbourne, lessons typically cost between $60 and $70 per hour. Many schools offer discounted packages for multiple lessons.
• Test Fees: The practical driving test fee is usually around $200.
• Additional Costs: Some learners choose extra lessons for advanced skills or test preparation, which can add to the total investment.

Choosing the Right Instructor

It’s important to select an instructor who is fully qualified, experienced, and has a teaching style that suits you. Instructors who have completed a reputable Driving Instructor Course Victoria will be up-to-date with the latest road safety standards and VicRoads requirements. Look for someone who provides clear feedback, is patient, and supports your learning journey.

Making the Most of Your Lessons

• Combine Professional Lessons and Practice: Use your instructor’s feedback to guide your practice sessions with a supervising driver.
• Keep a Consistent Schedule: Regular lessons and practice sessions help reinforce learning and build confidence.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification or extra practice on challenging skills.
• Review Your Logbook: Track your progress and ensure you’re getting a balance of day, night, city, and highway driving.

Why Choose Australian College of Future Education?

The Australian College of Future Education is committed to producing highly skilled driving instructors and ensuring learners in Melbourne receive comprehensive, up-to-date instruction. Their instructors are trained to the highest standards and are dedicated to helping you become a safe, confident driver. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for your test, their team will support you every step of the way.

In summary:

• Most learners benefit from 8 to 15 hours of professional instruction, which can count as up to 30 logbook hours thanks to the multiplier.
• The rest of your 120 required hours come from practice with a supervising driver.
• Investing in professional lessons ensures you build strong, safe driving habits that last a lifetime.