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VORT Introduction
The Vehicle On Road Test (VORT) allows candidates (learner drivers, overseas conversions, etc) to do a single practical road test to qualify for a driving licence.
Training for the test
It would be wise to have some driving lessons to prepare for the test as the standard that must be achieved to pass is demanding and each attempt at a test will cost $120+. The candidate must score 90% or better to pass the test. Most people who do a VORT without prior training will fail.
A driving instructor that trains a candidate cannot do the testing. The test must be done by another "Authorised" instructor.
Booking the test
The VORT date, time and location must be registered with the Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure (DTEI) three days prior to the test date. Keep in mind that the tester most probably will need more notice than that to fit your request into their schedule.
Re-booking the test
If a candidate fails the test they must wait a prescribed number of days before they can do it again.
- A learner driver must wait for 2 weeks
- An overseas conversion (section 80) must wait 3 days
Test requirements
The VORT involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. The test is made up of three components:
- Road law
- 5 slow manoeuvres
- A general drive
A candidate must achieve a score of at least 90% to pass the test.
Road law
Road Law must be obeyed at all times during the general drive and while demonstrating the slow manoeuvres. Any breaches will result in an instant fail.
Slow speed manoeuvres
There are five slow manoeuvres each worth 2% for a total of 10%. The standard for these tasks is very high and they must be demonstrated as described in detail in the "Driver's Companion" CBT section (yellow tab).
The slow speed manoeuvres include:
- Moving off uphill
- U-turn
- 3-point turn
- 90 degree angle park
- Reverse parallel park
The general drive
The test requires that a candidate achieves 90% overall of the general drive and slow speed manoeuvre components. It is expected that the System of Car Control will be used consistently throughout the drive.
The assessor's behaviour
The assessor will carefully explain the conditions of the assessment. They will give the candidate clear directions on where to go and what to do. If the candidate is unsure or simply forgets what was asked of them they may ask for the direction to be repeated or confirmed.
Any direction that is given by the assessor must only be carried out if it is safe and legal to do so. The assessor will not try to "trick" you into doing something wrong (eg. ask to park in a no parking area) and will give you reasonable time or opportunity to carry out their directive.
The assessor is unable to provide assistance to the candidate during the assessment.
If the assessor must intervene such as using the auxillary brake, assisting with the steering or instructing the candidate to change their direction or speed then it is an immediate fail.
If you are unsuccessful the assessor will give you an explanation and provide you with a copy of the test-marking sheet detailing your performance. If you are a learner driver you must wait a minimum of two weeks before you can book another VORT. Overseas conversions candidates may re-sit the test after 3 days.
Performance during the test
Everyone gets nervous when they are being assessed which will naturally result in lower performance. It is said to expect a reduction in competency of 25%. Consequently, a candidate must be capable of performing well above the minimum requirement to pass the test.
Be prepared and good luck!
See VORT tips and VORT slow speed manoeuvres for more information