How to Cancel or Transfer an NSW Drivers Licence

When You Need to Cancel or Transfer Your Licence

You must cancel your NSW driver licence if you move to another Australian state or territory and obtain a licence there. You must also cancel it if you surrender it for medical reasons or if it is suspended or cancelled by the RMS. Transferring your licence applies when you move to NSW from another state or territory and want to convert your existing licence to an NSW licence without taking the full driving test.

Step 1: Cancel Your NSW Licence When Moving Interstate

If you are moving to another state and obtaining a new licence there, you must cancel your NSW licence within the time limit set by that state. Most states require you to exchange your interstate licence within three months of moving.

To cancel your NSW licence, visit a Service NSW centre or call the RMS on 13 22 13. Provide your driver licence number, personal details, and the address of your new residence interstate. The RMS will issue a clearance letter confirming your NSW licence has been cancelled. Keep this letter for your records. Some states require it as evidence that your previous licence is no longer valid.

You can also surrender your licence in person at a Service NSW centre. You will receive a receipt confirming cancellation. If your interstate licence application is delayed, keep the receipt to prove that your NSW licence is no longer active.

Step 2: Transfer an Interstate Licence to NSW

If you move to NSW from another Australian state, you can transfer your existing licence without taking the full driving test, provided your licence is current and you have held it for more than two years. The process is:

• Visit a Service NSW centre within three months of moving to NSW
• Present your current interstate driver licence
• Provide proof of identity, including a birth certificate or passport
• Provide proof of NSW residency, such as a rental agreement or utility bill
• Complete a licence application form

The RMS will verify your licence history with the interstate issuing authority. If you have held a full licence for two years or more, you will receive an NSW full licence. If you have held a licence for less than two years, you will receive a provisional licence with the appropriate conditions.

Step 3: Transfer an Overseas Licence to NSW

If you move to NSW from overseas, the process depends on your country of origin. Holders of licences from recognised countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, and most European countries, can apply for an NSW licence without taking a driving test, provided their licence is current and they have held it for more than three years.

Visit a Service NSW centre with:

• Your current overseas driver licence
• An International Driving Permit if your licence is not in English
• Proof of identity
• Proof of NSW residency
• A completed overseas licence application form

You must pass an eyesight test. If your licence is from a non-recognised country, you must pass the Driver Knowledge Test and the driving test before being issued with an NSW licence.

Step 4: Surrender Your Licence for Medical Reasons

If you are no longer medically fit to drive, you can voluntarily surrender your licence. Visit a Service NSW centre or a doctor who is an authorised RMS medical practitioner. The doctor will complete a medical fitness to drive report and submit it to the RMS. You will receive a refund of any unused portion of your licence fee, calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Surrendering your licence voluntarily does not affect your ability to apply for a licence in the future if your medical condition improves. You will need to pass a new medical assessment before your licence is reinstated.

Step 5: Update Your Address with the RMS

Whether you are cancelling, transferring, or renewing your licence, update your address with the RMS within 14 days of moving. You can update your address online through Service NSW or in person at a Service NSW centre. Failing to update your address can result in missing renewal notices and fines for driving with an out-of-date licence.

Getting Help

The RMS contact centre is 13 22 13. Service NSW staff can assist with licence applications and cancellations at any of its 100-plus centres across NSW. If your licence is suspended or cancelled and you believe the decision is unfair, you can apply for a review by the RMS or seek review by NCAT.