Time limit
Is there a time limit on the NSW driver knowledge test?
Quick answer
How long do you get to do the NSW DKT?
There is no time limit. Service NSW says the DKT online final test has no time limit, but you must finish it in one session, because leaving early loses your answers. For the in-person car test Transport for NSW publishes no time limit either, and its motorcycle knowledge test page says that test is untimed. Take the time to read every option.
- Time limitNonePer Service NSW for the DKT online test
- Sessions1Exit early and your answers are lost
- Online course4 to 6 hoursThe learning modules, before the test
Timing on each version of the test
DKT online
- Final test has no time limit
- Must be done in one sitting
- Closing the test early discards your answers
- You sit it alone, with no notes
DKT in-person
- No time limit published for the car test
- Sat on a computer at a service centre
- Staff can read questions aloud if you need help
- Booked ahead with Service NSW
Using the time well
- 1
Set aside a quiet block
For the online test, pick a time when nobody needs the computer and your connection is steady. A wired or Wi-Fi connection beats mobile data.
- 2
Read all three options
With no clock, there is no reason to choose the first answer that looks right. The wrong options often differ by one number.
- 3
Slow down on road safety
That section allows only one mistake, so it deserves the extra minutes.
- 4
Finish before you leave
Do not step away from the online test half done. Your progress in the final test is not kept.
The course is not the test
The 4 to 6 hours quoted for DKT online is the learning course: three modules with quizzes. You can leave and come back to those, and your progress is saved. Only the final test has to be done in one go.
Practise without a clock
The NSW Learner app's mock exam follows the same idea: 45 questions in two sections and no timer. NSW Learner is independent and not affiliated with Transport for NSW or Service NSW.
Common questions
- Can I pause the DKT online final test?
- No. Service NSW says the final test must be finished in one session, and if you exit before the end your answers are not saved.
- How long does the DKT online course take?
- Service NSW describes it as a 4 to 6 hour course. Its video suggests around four hours for most people, and you can spread the modules over several days.
- Is the in-person DKT timed?
- Transport for NSW does not publish a time limit for the in-person car test. Its motorcycle knowledge test, which uses the same format, has no time limit.
- What if I fail the online test?
- You are locked out for 12 hours, then you can try again. Your results show the correct answers so you can revise first.
Sources
- Service NSW, DKT online common questions checked 20 Oct 2026
The final test has no time limit but must be completed in one session; leaving early means answers are not saved. - Service NSW, do your DKT online checked 20 Oct 2026
DKT online is a 4 to 6 hour interactive course that includes the test. - nsw.gov.au, Driver Knowledge Test checked 20 Oct 2026
Describes both versions; gives no time limit for the in-person car test. - nsw.gov.au, Rider Knowledge Test checked 20 Oct 2026
The matching motorcycle knowledge test has no time limit.
NSW Learner is an independent study site, not affiliated with Transport for NSW or Service NSW. Fees and rules can change, so confirm with Service NSW before you go.


Your L plate turns green when you would pass
NSW Learner is also an iPhone app, built on the same lessons and questions as this site. Short lessons for every topic, drills that bring back what you got wrong, and a mock exam in the test's layout, in your pocket and working without a signal.
- Free in the app: one full mock exam, and the speed limits and traffic signs and signals topics with their lessons, drills and 179 questions
- Private the app needs no account, works offline and keeps your progress on your phone
- Pro comes two ways, each bought separately. NSW Learner Pro on this website is A$14.99 one-time and works in any browser you sign in on. The app has its own Pro, bought inside the app through Apple. One does not unlock the other.
Independent study app. Not affiliated with Transport for NSW or Service NSW.