Rules of the Road · Victoria

Probationary Prohibited Vehicles in Victoria: The 130 kW per Tonne Rule

When you hold a P1 or P2 licence you cannot drive a probationary prohibited vehicle (PPV). A vehicle is a PPV if it has:

  • a power-to-mass ratio of more than 130 kilowatts per tonne, or
  • an engine modified to increase performance (other than by the manufacturer during manufacture), or
  • been declared a PPV by a notice in the Victorian Government Gazette.

Exemptions

  • Driving the vehicle during working hours at your employer's request.
  • A written exemption from VicRoads if the restriction would cause you undue hardship.
  • P1 only: while supervised by a full licence holder sitting beside you.

Check any car on the VicRoads website before you buy it. Visit vicroads.vic.gov.au for the current list and the exemption process.

Based on the Victorian Road to Solo Driving handbook and the VicRoads learner and probationary pages. Rules change from time to time, so check vicroads.vic.gov.au for the latest.

Quick answers

What is a probationary prohibited vehicle in Victoria?

A vehicle with a power-to-mass ratio above 130 kilowatts per tonne, a performance-modified engine, or one declared a PPV in the Government Gazette. P1 and P2 drivers cannot drive them unless exempt.