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Law is generally described as of March 2024.
What type of document can youth seek which will allow them to move around the territory and country?
Generally speaking, young people cannot move independently if they are under the age of 5. Between the ages of 5 and 15, there are certain requirements which may need to be satisfied in order for a young person to travel around the country, typically via air. Whilst the specific requirements may vary, generally the young person will need at least one form of photo identification and two forms of non-photo identification (which can also include photo identification). Carrying a child travel consent form is also advisable, although this pertains more to overseas travel: (https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/who-you-are/children). Any permanent relocation will require consent from a parent or guardian. If a young person attempts to move around the country without their parent or guardian's consent, they can usually be ordered to return home, unless it is unsafe to do so and the government intervenes. For young people aged 16 and above, there are generally not any specific requirements. Carrying multiple forms of identification, including at least one form of photo identification, is advisable generally.
Note, at a general level, in Australia, there are generally no documents required for travelling around the country.
What is the process for getting an ID card?
In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), identification cards are referred to as proof of identity cards.
In order to apply for a proof of identity card, you will need to visit an Access Canberra Service Centre.
If you have an ACT Driver's Licence already, bring that with you. If you do not have one, bring other acceptable forms of identification, which include one primary proof of identity (e.g. birth certificate, passport, citizenship certificate, etc.) and one or two secondary proofs of identity (e.g. Medicare card, student identity document, account card, etc.). You will need to provide three forms of identification in total.
If you would like your address included on your proof of identity card, you will need to bring acceptable proof of residency documents (e.g. Rates Assessment Notice, utility account, bank statement, etc.).
The card will then be mailed to you within 21 days. The cost is $8.
Where can I find information online about getting an ID?
The Access Canberra (ACT Government) website provides information online about how you can get an ID.
What documents do I have to have to get an ID? Is there any document that I must have to get an ID?
In order to obtain a proof of identity card / photo identification, you will need to have certain documents. Unless you are replacing a broken card or already have a driver's licence, you will need:
- At least one form of 'primary identification', such as a passport or birth certificate. The types of documents are exhaustively set out online: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-life-event-transactions
- One or two forms of 'secondary identification', such as a Medicare card or current bank account card. The types of documents are exhaustively set out online: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-life-event-transactions
In total, you will need at least three forms of acceptable identification.
If you do not have these types of documents, you will need to obtain them separately.
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
If your documents do not have your correct name or address, you will need to visit the Access Canberra website (via https://rego.act.gov.au/regosoawicket/public/client/MaintainContactDetailsPage?0) or call 13 22 81 to update these details.
What if I only have foreign documents?
You will need to obtain Australian documents. This may include an Australian citizenship / naturalisation certificate, a Department of Immigration travel document, a Department of Immigration and Citizenship certificate of evidence of resident status, etc.
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get an ID card?
You will need to obtain copies of the required documents. As this process is conducted in-person at an Access Canberra Service Centre, it will be explained to you in-person.
Do I have to be a resident of the territory to get an ID card?
Yes. You will also need to be a resident of the Australian Capital Territory.
What does it mean to be a resident of this territory? How do I prove residency?
To be a resident of Australia (and within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)), it means that you can lawfully reside in Australia. Types of residency can vary depending on your class of visa or whether you have been granted permanent residency or citizenship.
Note, this is managed at the national level and not by the ACT Government.
You can prove your residency by accessing your visa online via VEVO or through your ImmiCard. Otherwise, providing a copy of your visa documentation may also be sufficient.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/permanent-resident/evidence-of-residency-status
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/immicard
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions
What can I do if I do not have residency in this territory?
You will not be able to obtain an identification card if you are not a lawful resident.
Will I need a mailing address? What can I do if I am homeless?
While you typically need a mailing address to order any type of government issued document, you should raise this issue when you attend an Access Canberra Service Centre, as there is likely to be an alternative available to you if you are homeless or don't have a permanent address.
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
The application process involves attending an Access Canberra Service Centre. You will need to bring the required documentation, including original copies of your proof of identity and acceptable proof of your residency if you would like your address on the identity card.
Once you have attended the Service Centre, the card will be mailed to you within 21 days.
The fee is $8 for any new or replacement card.
The process cannot be completed online.
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
The application fee is $8.
It cannot be waived, noting that it is reasonably low.
How old do I have to be to apply for an ID card by myself?
You must be 18 years old.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me (and the application says I have to have one)?
Given you must be 18 years old, you do not need a parent or guardian during the application process. If you are under 18, a driver's licence is an available form of identification.
At what age can I get an ID card by myself?
In terms of a proof of identity card, you must be 18 years old.
Are there any special provisions for foster youth (children in custody of the government)?
No, as the card is for people who are 18 years old or older.
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
Again, no, as the card is for people who are 18 years old or older.
Will I have to take a test?
No.
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
N/A.
What organization issues a driver's license in this territory?
Driver's licences in Australia are issued by state governments. In the Australian Capital Territory, they are managed and issued by Access Canberra Service Centres.
What is the process for getting a driver's license?
To get a driver's licence, you need to first apply for a learner driver licence.
The process involves an application, where you need to firstly provide proof of your identity and residency. You then need to complete a pre-learner licence course and pass the ACT Road Rules test. You then need to visit an Access Canberra Service Centre.
You need to be 15 years and 9 months old in order to get your learner driver licence.
The pre-learner licence course can be taken through an approved provider: https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/roads-and-paths/road-safety/learner-and-provisional-drivers. A free course is offered to students in Year 10.
Once you have completed the course, you need to attend an Access Canberra Service Centre, where you will need to pass an eye test to make sure that you pass minimum eyesight requirements. You will also need to bring a certificate showing that you passed the ACT Road Rules test as well as your proof of identity and residency. There is a fee of $53.
Refer further to: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/licences/get-your-learner-driver-licence.
There is a separate process if you have an interstate or overseas driver's licence
(https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/licences).
Where can I find information online about getting a driver's license?
Information online about obtaining your driver's licence can be found on the Access Canberra website.
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/licences
What documents do I have to have to get a driver's license? Is there any document that I must have to get a driver's license?
To get a driver's licence, you will need to provide a proof of identity and proof of residency.
For the proof of identity, you will need to provide a minimum of three identity documents, one of which must be a 'primary proof of identity document'.
Primary proof of identity documents include a birth certificate, passport, etc. (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-vehicle-and-licence-transactions).
Secondary proof of identity documents include a Medicare Card, credit or account card, student identity document, etc. (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-vehicle-and-licence-transactions).
For the proof of residency, you will need to prove that you reside in the Australian Capital Territory.
If the primary or secondary documents that you provide establish your place of residency, you will likely not need to provide additional documentation. If they do not, you will need to supply additional documentation, such as a utility account, letter from university, bank statement, etc. (refer to the exhaustive list here: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-proof-of-residency-for-vehicle-and-licence-transactions).
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
If your documents do not have your correct name or address, you will need to visit the Access Canberra website (via https://rego.act.gov.au/regosoawicket/public/client/MaintainContactDetailsPage?0) or call 13 22 81 to update these details.
What if I only have foreign documents?
You will need to obtain Australian documents. This may include an Australian citizenship / naturalisation certificate, a Department of Immigration travel document, a Department of Immigration and Citizenship certificate of evidence of resident status, etc.
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get a driver's license?
You will need to obtain copies of the required documents. As this process is conducted in-person at an Access Canberra Service Centre, it will be explained to you in-person.
Do I have to be a resident of the territory to get a driver's license?
Yes.
What does it mean to be a resident of this territory? How do I prove residency?
To be a resident of Australia (and within the Australian Capital Territory), it means that you can lawfully reside in Australia. Types of residency can vary depending on your class of visa or whether you have been granted permanent residency or citizenship.
Note, this is managed at the national level and not by the ACT Government.
You can prove your residency by accessing your visa online via VEVO or through your ImmiCard. Otherwise, providing a copy of your visa documentation may also be sufficient.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/permanent-resident/evidence-of-residency-status
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/immicard
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions
What can I do if I do not have residency in this territory?
You will not be able to obtain a driver's licence if you are not a lawful resident.
Will I need a mailing address? What can I do if I am homeless?
While you typically need a mailing address to order any type of government issued document, you should raise this issue when you attend an Access Canberra Service Centre, as there is likely to be an alternative available to you if you are homeless or don't have a permanent address.
If you are under 18 and cannot prove your residency, a parent or legal guardian can complete a statutory declaration stating that you live with them.
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
While there is information online, the application must be conducted in-person at an Access Canberra Service Centre.
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
There are varying fees for different licence classes. For a learner driver licence, the fee is $53.
Concession holders can have their fees waived.
If you hold a current Centrelink Pension Concession Card, you can receive a 100% discount on fees for issue or renewal of full, provisional and heavy vehicle licences. There is, however, NO discount for learner, probationary and restricted driver licences.
You are eligible for other discounts if you satisfy certain criteria as:
- Centrelink Health Care cardholders
- Department of Veterans' Affairs cardholders
- Diplomats and privileged personnel
- Automatic renewal discount
- Provisional licence holders with no history of traffic offences.
How old do I have to be to apply for a driver's license by myself?
15 years and 9 months old.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me (and the application says I have to have one)?
There is no requirement for a parent or guardian to attend with you.
At what age can I get a driver's license card by myself?
15 years and 9 months, although you must be 17 years old get a licence which allows you to drive by yourself (a provisional licence).
Are there any special provisions for foster youth (children in custody of the government)?
No, as you do not require a parent or guardian to apply for a licence. You will, however, need a supervising driver in order to accrue the learning driver hours for passing the driving test and getting your provisional licence.
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
No. Any concerns should be addressed when you attend an Access Canberra Service Centre to apply for your licence.
Will I have to take a test?
Once you get a learner driver's licence and have had it for three months, you should complete the online Hazard Perception test: https://safeplatestesting.act.gov.au/c/spt?a=da&did=2001421. The first attempt is free. If you fail, you will need to wait 24 hours and pay a fee to take the test again.
As a learner driver, you need to do 100 hours of supervised driving with a valid full licence holder. This includes 10 hours at night.
Once you have completed your hours, you need to complete a test. This can either be a 'Competency Based Training and Assessment' through an ACT Accredited Driving Instructor or a one-off practical driving assessment with an ACT Government Licence Examiner.
The first option is referred to as the 'log book method' and involves a driving instructor, over the course of lessons, assessing you against 23 competencies (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/2297432/Road-ready-towards-your-Ps-in-the-ACT-a-learner-driver-guide.pdf). You will need to do a minimum of seven lessons, although it is recommended to have 10-15 lessons.
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
If you choose to do a one-off practical driving assessment, you will need to book an appointment through an Access Canberra Service Centre by calling 13 22 81 and paying the fee with a VISA or MasterCard. You can also attend a Service Centre to make the appointment. Attending a Service Centre is required if you hold an interstate or overseas driver's licence.
You need to be at least 17 years old on the day of the assessment, so you will need to book your assessment after your 17th birthday.
Where can I take the driving test? What can I do if I cannot get to a testing location?
If you complete the test via a driving instructor, this can be done in your or their vehicle, as already outlined.
If you complete the test via the one-off practical driving assessment, you should attend an Access Canberra Service Centre (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/contact-us#Visit-an-Access-Canberra-Service-Centre). If you cannot attend one of the Service Centres, which are located throughout the ACT, you should arrange to complete the test via the first competency-based option.
Do I need to get a permit or authorization to practice driving before I get my driver's license?
To get your full driver's licence, you need to hold several types of licences and satisfy the requirements for obtaining each licence type.
- Learner
- Provisional (P1) - red
- Provisional (P2) - green
Each licence class has different requirements, which relate to displaying plates on your car, consuming alcohol, having passengers late at night, etc.
To get your learner driver's licence, you need to apply, pass the ACT Road Rules Test, prove your identity and residency, pay the fee and pass an eyesight test (further information: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/licences/get-your-learner-driver-licence#Practicing-during-the-learner-period).
To get your provisional (P1) licence, you need to hold an active learner driver's licence for a minimum of 12 months, unless you are aged 25 or older, in which case you only need to hold the licence for six months. After having your learner driver's licence for three months, you should complete the online Hazard Perception Test. Once you have completed your 100 supervised driving hours, unless you are aged 25 or older, in which case you are only required to complete 50 supervised driving hours, you are eligible to complete the driver's test. If you pass the test, you can apply to get a provisional (P1) licence. You must provide a signed-off logbook, driver's licence or proof of identity and Hazard Perception Test certificate. You will also need to pay a fee via Mastercard or VISA. For further information, see: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/driving-transport-and-parking/licences/get-your-provisional-driver-licence.
After holding your provisional (P1) licence for one year, you will automatically transition to a provisional (P2) licence for the remaining two years.
If you are over the age of 25, you will automatically progress to the provisional (P2) licence for the entire provisional period.
After a three-year provisional period, you will be eligible to apply for a full licence. This can be done online.
What is the document detailing a person's birth called in this territory?
A birth certificate.
I'm not sure I have a birth certificate, what can I do to find out if I have one and where to get it?
You can apply for a birth certificate in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT):
- when a birth is registered in the ACT
- for yourself if you're an adult
- for your child if they're under 18
- for your adult child if they give you permission
- for yourself if you're under 18 and have parental permission
- for your adopted child if you have their birth parents' permission.
If your birth was registered in another state, territory or country, you will need to contact that relevant authority.
How do I get a copy of my birth certificate?
Apply for a certificate online via Access Canberra: https://forms.act.gov.au/smartforms/servlet/SmartForm.html?formCode=1186.
You will then need to provide three copies of proof of identity documents (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-life-event-transactions) and a third-party consent form (https://forms.act.gov.au/smartforms/servlet/SmartForm.html?formCode=1186_consent).
There is a fee involved (https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/births-relationships-and-deaths/births-relationships-and-deaths-related-fees) and you will need to show identification when your certificate arrives by post.
If you were adopted, you can apply for an Integrated Birth Certificate by calling 13 34 27 or emailing adoptions@act.gov.au.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, an approved community representative can support your application if you are missing certain identity documents. Email bdm@act.gov.au for assistance.
Can I order my birth certificate online?
Yes: https://forms.act.gov.au/smartforms/servlet/SmartForm.html?formCode=1186.
What documents will I need to get my birth certificate?
You will need three forms of identity.
These include at least one primary proof of identity document and one or two secondary proof of identity documents.
The types of documents which are primary or secondary are listed here:
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-life-event-transactions
What happens if I don't have some or all of the documents that are required?
If you do not have acceptable forms of identification, you will need to go through a separate process with Access Canberra or other relevant agencies to obtain the required documents.
For Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants, an approved community representative can support your application for a birth certificate if you do not have the required proof of identity documents to apply or you need a birth certificate for a child you look after but you're not a named parent on the child's certificate. Email: bdm@act.gov.au for assistance.
How old do I have to be to get a copy of my birth certificate by myself?
You must be over 18.
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must apply on your behalf.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me to get a birth certificate (and the application says I have to have one)?
The application can be done online; however, you will need your parent or legal guardian to complete this or consent to it.
What is the cost to get a birth certificate?
The fees vary depending on which certificate you apply for and how you receive it. The cost can range from $11 to $207.
Is there a waiver if I cannot afford the fee?
For information about a fee waiver, you need to call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or email bdm@act.gov.au.
Applications for a waiver are assessed against a policy:
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/2358898/Birth-death-marriage-certificate-financial-hardship-fee-waiver-policy.pdf
Are there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I have been in the foster care system (children in custody of the government)?
Yes. If you were adopted, you can apply for an Integrated Birth Certificate (IBC). An IBC does not replace or invalidate a birth certificate.
An IBC contains your:
- ·name at birth
- ·name after adoption
- adoptive legal parent information
- ·older adoptive siblings' details
- date of adoption.
IBCs for historical adoptions are also available if approved by Child and Youth Protective Services.
There is no cost involved.
With respect to any specific provisions for children in the custody of the government, you should speak to the relevant point of contact about who can order you a birth certificate if you need.
Are there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I am homeless?
There are no special laws or provisions to help you get a birth certificate if you are homeless. You will need an address to mail the certificate once you order it.
Where do I get my birth certificate if I was born in another country?
You need to contact the relevant overseas birth registry.
If you are unable to get an overseas birth certificate, then all people who are parents and/or legal guardians must complete a form with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - B6: Child born overseas and no birth certificate.
https://www.passports.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-04/b6.pdf
Is there a way to get my birth certificate without going somewhere in person?
Yes. You can apply online via the Access Canberra website.
https://forms.act.gov.au/smartforms/servlet/SmartForm.html?formCode=1186&tmFormVersion
Where can I find information online about getting a birth certificate?
On the Access Canberra website.
What vital doc should I start with to change my name? Is the process easier for one of the IDs?
To change your name, you need to apply to Access Canberra. Your birth has to be registered in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and/or you have to live in the ACT. You must also be 18 years old, and you can only apply for a change of name once a year.
Complete this form:
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/2231065/Application-to-register-a-change-of-name-for-an-adult.pdf.
It can be submitted via email, post or in-person.
Once you have changed your name, it makes sense to change any identification documents which are considered as 'primary proof of identity'. These include a driver's licence, birth certificate, passport, etc. The full list can be found here: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/proof-of-identity-and-residency/acceptable-id-for-life-event-transactions.
How do I change my name on my birth certificate?
Apply for a new birth certificate online via Access Canberra:
https://forms.act.gov.au/smartforms/servlet/SmartForm.html?formCode=1186&tmFormVersion.
How do I change my name on my ID?
You should update your contact details with Access Canberra. This can be done online (https://rego.act.gov.au/regosoawicket/public/client/MaintainContactDetailsPage?0) or by calling 13 22 81.
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/update-your-contact-details
To replace your ID, attend an Access Canberra Service Centre with your change of name certificate and previous identification documents.
How do I change my name on my driver's license?
To replace your licence, you should attend an Access Canberra Service Centre with your identification documents and your change of name certificate. There will be a fee involved.
At what age can I change my name by myself?
18.
What can I do if I have no parent or guardian and want to change my name and do not have anyone who can help me?
If you are under the age of 18, your name can only be changed your parent or legal guardian.
You are, however, allowed to change your given names on the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) birth register to better reflect your gender identity. This includes if your parents don't support your decision. You must be born in the ACT or prove that you have lived in the Territory for more than three months.
More information and support can be found here:
For young people who are aged 16+, you can apply directly. If you are aged 12 to 15, you need consent from both parents or from one parent if it is not possible to get consent from the other. If you do not have consent from your parents, you need permission to change your given names by applying to the ACT Civil & Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). If you are younger than 12, you need support from one parent and permission from the ACAT.
What vital doc should I start with to change my gender marker? Is the process easier for one of the IDs?
Gender is not recorded on official government documents in Australia.
If you wish to change your sex, you should firstly change your birth certificate.
How do I change my gender marker on my birth certificate?
Complete an application to alter birth register to record a change of sex.
You will need to provide a signed 'Declaration in Support of a Change of Sex' from a doctor or psychologist supporting the change of sex.
You will also need to provide your proof of identity. You can submit your application by emailing bdm@act.gov.au, posting to GPO Box 158 Canberra City ACT 2601 or attending an Access Canberra Service Centre. There is a fee involved, unless you are eligible for the waiver.
Young people can apply to have their sex changed on official government documentation; however, depending on your age, there may be additional requirements, such as obtaining consent from your parent or legal guardian.
How do I change my gender marker on my ID?
Again, there is no gender marker on your ID. Some IDs have a sex marker, however, documents like a driver's licence do not.
You should update your contact details with Access Canberra. This can be done online (https://rego.act.gov.au/regosoawicket/public/client/MaintainContactDetailsPage?0) or by calling 13 22 81.
https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/identity/update-your-contact-details
To replace your ID, attend an Access Canberra Service Centre with your recognised details certificate and previous identification documents.
How do I change my gender marker on my driver's license?
Your driver's licence does not have a gender or sex marker.
At what age can I change my gender marker by myself?
From age 16, you can change your sex marker by yourself.
If you are between the ages of 12 and 15, you need consent from both parents, or one parent if it is not reasonable to get consent from the other. If you do not have consent from your parents, you can apply to get permission from the ACT Civil & Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).
Children under the age of 12 can change their sex marker if they have support from one parent and permission from ACAT.
What can I do if I don't have a parent or guardian and want to change my gender marker and do not have anyone who can help me?
If you are under the age of 16, meaning that you cannot change your sex marker by yourself, you can apply to the ACT Civil & Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). If you are under the age of 12, however, you will need consent from one of your parents.
You can attend an Access Canberra Service Centre for support and speak to a member of staff.