If you are a learner driver or provisional licence holder, there are some things you need to know before you pile into the car and crank up the tunes. After all, road rules change from state-to-state.

What you can do in South Australia might not be the same as Victoria or New South Wales or anywhere else for that matter.

It’s a good idea to find out the restrictions that might impact you before heading off on your epic adventure.

Playing the “I didn’t know” or “I’m not from here” card might not fly with local authorities. Suddenly, you could be looking at fines, demerit points or even loss of licence.

And wouldn’t that be a real bummer for your holiday?

Learner drivers

The states and territories are mostly on the same page when it comes to learner drivers. However, there are a few rules that differ, including the maximum speed limit.

In South Australia and Western Australia, learner drivers can’t exceed 100km/h even when the posted speed limit is higher, while in New South Wales and Tasmania it’s 90km/h.

If you’re driving up to the Northern Territory, the maximum speed limit for learners is 80km/h. In Queensland, Victoria and the ACT, the maximum speed limit for learner drivers is the sign-posted speed.

Both ACT and NT authorities will come down hard on learner drivers caught breaking the speed limit, with offenders potentially having their permit suspended.

In other states, you’ll be catching public transport for a while if you exceed the speed limit by 30km/h or more. This offence also warrants a permit suspension.

Also, just a reminder that it doesn’t matter if you’re driving through the burbs, busy city streets, or the back of beyond, you must have a qualified supervising driver next to you at all times.

What this means

If you are driving interstate, remember that any conditions that apply to learners in the state you’re entering will also apply to you. For example, if you’re heading into Victoria, you can drive up to whatever the posted speed limit is, subject to traffic and weather conditions. However, if you’re in NSW, then it’s no more than 90km/h for you.

Provisional drivers

Speed limits for p-plate drivers are mostly consistent across the country. However, the NT falls into line with SA and WA where P1 drivers can’t exceed 100km/h.

If you’re looking at visiting Tasmania, the maximum speed limit for P1 drivers is 90km/h. If p-platers break the speed limit, they face same licence suspension penalties as learner drivers right across the country.

Towing is a contentious issue. Weight restrictions apply for P1 drivers in SA (up to 4.5 tonne), NSW (250kg) and the ACT (750kg). Queensland, Tasmania and NT have completely banned P1 drivers from towing a boat, trailer, caravan or horse float.

In Western Australia there aren’t any restrictions around P1 drivers towing.

There are a few strings attached for P1 drivers wanting to tow in Victoria. They can only tow if it’s for work or if they’re using the equipment for agriculture, horticulture, dairy or commercial fishing.

However, none of these rules apply if you have a fully licenced driver sitting in the passenger seat. This funny little towing quirk applies just to Victoria.

Curfews are in place for P1 drivers in all states except the NT and Victoria. P1 drivers in SA and WA who are under 25 can’t drive between midnight and 5am unless they’re accompanied by a fully licenced driver.

In NSW, Queensland and the ACT, the curfew applies between 11pm and 5am. Tasmania restricts driving times depending on the licence and its date of issue.

What this means

So, when heading interstate, remember that if the conditions for p-plate drivers in the state into which you will be travelling are more restrictive than those that apply to your current licence, then you must also abide by them.

Similarities

Young drivers can travel all over the country, from city to city, state to state, territory to territory, even from the mainland to nearby islands.

P1 drivers can drive solo in every Australian state and territory. However, they should be aware that they’re driving in new surroundings and on unfamiliar roads, so need to take extra care.

Plates must be displayed correctly on the vehicle and you must carry your licence with you at all times. The class of motor vehicle stated on your licence applies everywhere, and if you’re under 25, you can’t drive high-powered vehicles.

Comply with the Road Rules applicable in each state and territory. This includes zero concentration of alcohol or illicit substances in your blood system and absolutely no talking and texting on your mobile phone. Put it away to avoid any distractions.