Frequently Asked Questions

We require 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule a lesson. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice may incur a fee.

Yes, absolutely! You can take as many lessons as needed. Our lessons are designed to maximise your learning. For example:

• 7 × 1 hr 15 min lessons = 8.75 logbook hours
• 3 × 1.5-hour lessons = 4.5 logbook hours

Booking longer lessons allows you to get more out of each session with fewer days.

The number of lessons needed varies depending on your current driving experience, learning pace, and confidence behind the wheel.

On average, research from Queensland Transport and other Australian studies suggests that learners typically need around 10-25 lessons to feel fully prepared for their driving test. However, this can vary—some may progress quickly, while others may need more time to build skills and confidence.

One of the biggest factors in how quickly you improve is the gap between lessons. Learners who commit to 2–3 lessons per week often see faster, more consistent progress compared to those who can only attend occasionally due to work, study, or family commitments. There’s no right or wrong schedule—what matters most is finding what works best for you.

Learning to drive is similar to starting a new sport: you need regular practice to develop good technique. Just like training each week to master drills, driving requires repetition and muscle memory. The more consistent your lessons are, the quicker you’ll feel confident handling the vehicle and responding to real‑world situations—just as an athlete learns to work instinctively in sync with their team.

At NJL Driving School, we tailor every lesson to your individual needs. During your first sessions, we’ll assess your skills and create a personalised learning plan that supports your pace—whether that means more frequent lessons or a more relaxed schedule. Our goal is to help you become a safe, capable, and confident driver.

No, driving lessons are not compulsory. However, they are highly recommended for anyone who wants to ensure they’re fully prepared for both the driving test and real-life driving situations. While many people believe that "it's just a QLD rule" or "it's always been that way", the reality is that road rules, driving techniques, and exam expectations evolve over time.

By taking lessons, you’ll be learning the most up-to-date road rules and safe driving practices, which can vary from what was previously taught or expected. Additionally, driving with an instructor offers the benefit of using a dual-controlled car, providing an added layer of safety. Instructors are well-versed in the latest regulations and driving test requirements, so you’ll be in good hands, receiving advice and guidance that aligns with current standards.

We recommend taking a lesson before you book your test to ensure you're fully prepared. Your instructor will give you feedback on your skills. If you're confident and have completed all the requirements, you are likely ready!

Feeling nervous about the driving test?

No, it’s not compulsory in Queensland, but wearing shoes that allow you to control the pedals safely is strongly recommended.

At NJL Driving School, the intake form helps us provide a personalised, safe, and supportive learning experience. It allows us to understand your unique needs, whether that’s a medical condition, mental health support, or learning preferences, so we can tailor your lessons accordingly.

We believe in trust and safety, which is why all of our instructors are Blue Card accredited, have completed Criminal History Checks, and are First Aid and Mental Health First Aid certified. NJL is also a Child Safe Organisation.The intake form ensures we can address any specific requirements, giving you the best possible support from day one. By gathering this information upfront, we can create a safe and nurturing environment where you can succeed. 

Yes, all our cars are fitted with dual controls. Only accredited driving instructors can use dual controls and offer pre‑licence driver training lessons in Queensland. To become accredited, instructors must:

• Hold a valid Australian or New Zealand driver's licence for at least one year.
• Complete the Certificate IV in Motor Vehicle Driver Training (Cars).

At NJL Driving School, our instructors are employed staff rather than contractors, which means they work stable full‑time or part‑time hours instead of commission‑based or flexible gig‑style shifts. Set lesson time slots support healthy work–life balance—an important part of NJL’s culture—while ensuring consistent, reliable scheduling for our learners.

The driving test isn’t hard, but you need to be careful. The most common reasons for failing are:

• Speeding
• Not performing shoulder checks consistently and appropriately
• Failing to stop completely at stop signs
• Not giving way when required

For more details on how to prepare, check the Safe Driving Guide.

All Queensland learner drivers must complete the hazard perception test before booking their practical driving test. You can take the test after holding your learner licence for at least 6 months.

Car hazard perception test | Transport | Queensland Government

An International Driving Permit (IDP) must be issued in your home country. It serves as a translation of your original driver licence, enabling you to drive internationally. IDPs can be obtained through authorised organizations such as automobile associations or motor vehicle organisations in your home country.

When driving in Queensland, you’ll need to carry both the IDP and your original driver’s licence. The IDP is valid for up to 12 months from the date of issue, depending on your home country’s regulations.

Yes, you can use your overseas licence for up to 3 months after moving to Queensland. However, after that period, you’ll need to apply for a Queensland driver’s licence to continue driving.

The process for transferring to a Queensland licence depends on your country of origin and whether there is a reciprocal agreement between Queensland and your home country. If your licence is not in English, you will need an official translation or an IDP to drive legally.

For details on how to convert your overseas licence, visit the Queensland Transport website here.

To ensure safety for everyone involved. Many Learner Drivers may not have disclosed a medical condition when obtaining their Learner Licence. Some conditions develop later, or learners might fear it could affect their chances. We always ask — we never assume.

Your safety and the safety of others on the road is our top priority. To ensure we provide the best support and a safe learning environment, we ask that you inform us of any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely. This includes conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart conditions
• Vision problems

Please note that this information will be kept confidential and used solely to ensure your safety during driving lessons. We encourage you to consult with your doctor about any medical concerns, and you may also need to notify Queensland Transport (TMR) about your condition, as required by law. Your privacy is important to us, and we will handle all personal details in accordance with privacy laws to protect your confidentiality.

If you fail to inform Queensland Transport (TMR) about a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you could face a fine of over $9,200, and your driver’s licence may be cancelled.

This is especially important due to Jet’s Law, which prioritises the safety of all road users, particularly when medical conditions may affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Medical fitness to drive means being physically, cognitively, and emotionally capable of safely operating a vehicle. If you have a long-term or permanent medical condition, you are required by law to notify TMR before driving in Queensland.

For more details on your legal obligations and the impact of not disclosing medical conditions, please visit the official: TMR Medical Fitness to Drive and Medical fitness to drive — Jets law - Medical fitness to drive - Publications | Queensland Government information.

If you're on medication that could affect your ability to drive safely, inform Queensland Transport. Certain medications can impact reaction time, concentration, or overall driving ability. Always check with your doctor.