Before You Start Driving: The Examiner’s Message

Before your car moves and before any driving tasks begin, the Driving Examiner delivers a mandatory set of statements known as “A message from your Driving Examiner”.

• The message is provided to you to read while waiting at the test centre or near the vehicle
• The examiner then reads designated statements aloud
• The wording is standardised across Queensland to ensure fairness
• The test officially begins only after the statements are read and any questions answered

Once the test has started, no third party (including instructors or parents) may assist unless directed by the examiner.

The Exact Statements Read at the Start of a Queensland Car Driving Test

The Driving Examiner will explain that:

• Q‑SAFE assesses your ability to drive safely in a range of driving situations, including different speed zones
• You will be asked to complete a series of driving tasks with clear directions given in advance
• If no directions are given, you must follow road signs, signals and markings
• Interstate learner licence holders must follow any additional licence conditions
• You must demonstrate control of the vehicle without using driver assist systems such as cruise control, lane centring, park assist or speed assist
• If the test is recorded, written consent is required and the device must be outward‑facing
• You cannot access the recording device during the assessment
• At the end of the test, you will accompany the examiner to discuss the result

The examiner will finish by asking if you have any questions. Once this is complete, the driving assessment has officially begun.

Conversation During the Start of the Test

During the early stages of the driving test, conversation is kept to a minimum. This allows you to focus fully on driving. If conversation affects concentration, the examiner may ask you to refocus on the driving task.

What This Means for Gold Coast Learner Drivers

Understanding the exact start of your Queensland driving test helps you:

• Know precisely when the assessment begins
• Understand what is expected before you move the car
• Avoid confusion about directions, driver aids and recording rules
• Start the test calm, prepared and focused

This process is the same whether you sit your test on the Gold Coast or anywhere in Queensland.