Green Ps: What Do They Mean?

Green Ps are probationary licenses in Australia that allow drivers to begin driving before they have earned their full licenses. These licenses are a part of the Graduated Licensing System (GLS), which provides novice drivers with the opportunity to gain experience in a supervised environment and to help reduce the high road toll among young people. There are conditions that individuals must meet to upgrade to being a fully licensed holder.

Road safety is a priority for the Australian government, and the GLS is part of their response to reducing the number of young, inexperienced drivers involved in fatal crashes. Thus, different levels of driving licenses have restrictions and requirements. Individuals must undergo probationary driving until they have gained enough experience to operate a vehicle safely. This article will give an overview of what the P2 license covers, including its regulations and related offences.

What are Green Ps?

Green Ps, also known as P2 licenses, are probationary licenses that are issued to novice drivers in Australia. It is a part of the graduated licensing system, which aims to reduce the high road toll among young people. The system introduces new drivers to the responsibilities and skills required for safe driving.

During this license stage, new drivers can drive on their own but with certain restrictions. These restrictions are put in place to ensure their safety and others on the road. For example, individuals with a learner’s permit must display a sign indicating their probationary status on their vehicle. They may also have limitations, such as the number of passengers they can carry.

The restrictions are gradually lifted as the driver gains more experience and demonstrates safe driving behaviour. Additionally, a green plate is displayed for two years for drivers under 25 years old. Upon completion, they can upgrade to a full (unrestricted) license. However, they must not have any violations.

How to Apply

• A person must hold a P1 (red plate) license for at least 12 months.
• Apply for a P2 license online or at a service centre.
• Show proof of identity (passport, birth certificate and proof of address with signature).
• Pay the license and test fees online or at a service centre to receive a temporary license. Individuals will receive their green plates when applying in person.
• The driver must be at least 16 years old and have completed the required minimum hours of supervised driving practice.
• Pass the Hazard Perception test and a practical driving test.

Rules and Regulations for Green Ps

Individuals with green Ps are subject to rules and regulations during the two-year period. They must display the green P plate on the front and back of their vehicle. The conditions also include driving with a maximum speed limit of 100kph. An offence will earn them a minimum of four demerit points.

Probationary drivers must ensure all passengers are wearing a seatbelt or child restraints. Moreover, they have a zero Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit. This means they must not have alcohol in their system when driving a vehicle. Police officers conduct mandatory or random breath testing to determine the driver’s BAC or alcohol levels.

Furthermore, individuals must not use mobile phones, including hands-free devices or loudspeakers while driving. This is to minimise distractions and encourage safe practices among new drivers. Failure to follow these rules will result in heavy penalties, including loss of license. Violations or bad driving records may take longer before they get to the next licence category.

Requirements to Progress

In order to progress to a full license, individuals must hold a P2 license for two years without any traffic violations or suspensions. During this time, they must complete a total of 120 hours of supervised driving, including supervised night driving. If a person receives demerit point suspension, they will have to hold an extra six months to their provisional license.

To apply for a full license, they must pay the licence fee and show proof of identity. Likewise, they must pass an eyesight test. Lastly, take and pass the driver qualification test. They may book the test online or go to a motor registry.

Offences and Consequences of Green Ps

Green Ps are subject to specific restrictions and limitations. Violations of these rules can result in consequences, including fines, demerit points, and suspensions. One offence that can result in penalties is speeding. Exceeding the speed limit may earn the driver four demerit points, depending on the local jurisdiction. Police officers may also suspend the license immediately for high-risk driving.

Another offence is drink driving. Probationary drivers must not operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is a severe offence that poses a significant risk to the driver, passengers, and others on the road. A positive BAC level on a police breathalyser test may result in a fine, loss of license, and double demerit points.

A common offence is using a mobile phone while driving. This includes texting, making or receiving calls, or using any other functions of a mobile device. This is because distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, followed by impaired driving. Drivers may get license suspension if they reach seven demerit points.

Conditions after Disqualification

Individuals will get certain conditions if they commit an offence while holding a P2 license. This includes attending a driver education program or an alcohol awareness program if they have been involved in drink driving. Likewise, they must complete a practical driving test before getting their license back.

If a driver is disqualified, they will not be able to drive with more than one passenger for 12 months. The period of disqualification depends on the seriousness of the number of demerit points they have. Failing to follow the conditions may result in further suspensions or even a permanent disqualification from driving.

Conclusion

Green Ps are probationary licenses for new drivers with certain restrictions and limitations. Individuals may apply for this license type after holding a red plate or P1 license for a minimum of 12 months. The requirements include completing a minimum supervised driving practice and passing practical examinations. Furthermore, the restrictions include following the general road rules of Australia, maintaining a zero BAC limit, and not using mobile phones. These regulations may vary between each state and territory.

To progress to a full license, individuals must not have traffic offences for two years. They must also pass additional examinations, including an eyesight test. Any violations committed during the probationary period will incur corresponding fees and penalties. It is important for provisional drivers to be aware of these restrictions to avoid disqualifications and longer suspension periods. In this test, they must demonstrate their ability to follow safe driving and adhere to the driving laws.