Number questions are some of the easiest marks on the driver knowledge test, and some of the easiest to lose. The options are usually close together (is it 10 metres or 20?), so a vague memory isn't enough. Here are the numbers worth drilling until they're automatic.
These are common rules across NSW, VIC and QLD at the time of writing, but states do differ and rules change. Always confirm against your state's current handbook before your test.
Speed limits
- 50 km/h: the default limit in a built-up area when no speed sign is shown.
- 40 km/h: the usual school zone limit during signed school zone times.
- Learner limits differ by state. NSW learners have a maximum speed of 90 km/h even where the limit is higher. Victoria and Queensland learners follow the posted limit. This is exactly the kind of state difference that shows up on the test.
Alcohol
- Zero: learner drivers must have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of zero in NSW, VIC and QLD. Not "under 0.05". Zero.
- 0.05: the general limit for most fully licensed drivers. Expect a question that tests whether you know it doesn't apply to you as a learner.
Following distance
- 3 seconds: the minimum gap to the car in front recommended in good conditions. Pick a fixed point, and when the car ahead passes it you should be able to count three seconds before you reach it.
- More in the wet or at night. Handbooks recommend increasing the gap in poor conditions.
Stopping and parking distances
These come from the Australian Road Rules and are a favourite source of close-together multiple-choice options:
- 20 metres from an intersection with traffic lights, and 10 metres from one without, unless a sign says otherwise.
- 20 metres before a bus stop and 10 metres after it.
- 20 metres before and after a railway level crossing.
Learner licence rules
- L plates must be clearly displayed whenever you're driving.
- You must always be supervised by a driver holding a full licence.
- No mobile phone: learners in NSW and VIC can't use a phone at all while driving, not even hands-free. Queensland has similar restrictions for learners. Check your handbook for the exact wording.
- Supervised driving hours: younger learners must log a set number of supervised hours before moving to provisional. The figure depends on your state and age.
How to make the numbers stick
Reading a list like this once won't do it. What works is short, repeated recall: see the question, produce the number, check, repeat over several days. That's what flashcards are for.
The Oz Driver Knowledge Test app includes flashcards that drill exactly these numbers for your state, and Smart Review brings back the ones you miss more often. Ten minutes a day for a week is usually enough to stop losing marks on them. For why this works, see why practice tests beat re-reading.
