Big Changes to Victoria's Driving Test and Road Rules in 2025–2026: What Learners Need to Know

As Melbourne's trusted driving instructors at L2D Driving School, we're keeping you ahead of the curve on VicRoads updates. While the core Drive Test structure (two stages, 30 minutes total, assessing turns, lane changes and parking) hasn't fundamentally changed since 2008, 2025–2026 brings significant road rule tweaks, learner requirements and licensing shifts that impact test prep and safe driving. These evolve Victoria's Graduated Licensing System (GLS) to boost novice safety amid rising congestion—here's the breakdown.
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Key 2025 Road Rule Update: 40km/h Slow-Down Expansion

From July 1, 2025, Road Rule 79A requires drivers to reduce speed to 40km/h when passing stationary or slow-moving roadside assistance vehicles, tow trucks and incident response units with flashing lights (red, blue, magenta or yellow). This aligns Victoria with other states, protecting workers on highways like the M80 or Monash Freeway. During your L2D lessons, we now drill this into Stage 2 practice: mirror checks, gradual braking and maintaining distance. Fail to comply? Expect fines and demerit points—critical for P-platers with zero tolerance.
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2026 Learner & Provisional Shifts

Starting January 2026, VicRoads rolls out phased changes, including 150 supervised hours (up from 120) for under-21s before testing, stricter provisional penalties for high-risk offences (e.g., drink/drug driving), and digital licensing pilots with AI cameras for enforcement. Overseas experienced drivers lose the easy EDR swap (ended April 2025), needing full tests instead. Seniors over 75 face more medical reviews. No immediate test format overhaul, but routes emphasise hazard perception in heavier traffic.
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How L2D Prepares You for the New Rules

Our instructors tailor lessons to these updates, using Bundoora and northern Melbourne routes to master 40km/h slowdowns, extra hazard scans and logbook compliance. With our Pass Guarantee (free re-test support after 4 lessons), you'll ace the test under the latest GLS. Nervous? Beginners average 10–15 lessons to competence. Book now at l2dmelbournedrivingschool.com.au or call 1300 831 900—drive safer in 2026!

​What are the fines for breaking the 40km/h slow down rule

Failing to slow down to 40km/h when passing stationary or slow-moving roadside assistance vehicles, tow trucks, or incident response units with flashing lights (under Victoria's expanded Road Rule 79A, effective July 1, 2025) carries a penalty of up to $961. Unlike many traffic offences, no demerit points apply, making it a fine-only infringement focused on worker safety rather than licence penalties.

This matches similar rules elsewhere (e.g., NSW's $544 + 3 points), but Victoria emphasises the fine's deterrent effect amid rising highway incidents. L2D instructors now prioritise this in lessons—practise on Monash Freeway simulators or northern routes to avoid costly slips during your Drive Test or daily commutes.