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Western Australia · Theory test

Car licence classes in WA: C and C-A

There are two, and the car you take your driving assessment in decides which you get. A manual C class licence lets you drive manual and automatic cars, while a C-A class licence is for automatics only. The Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) says choosing between them for your car licence in WA is up to you, and you can upgrade from C-A to C later.

  • 2Car licence classes: C and C-A
  • 4,500 kgMaximum GVM for a C class vehicle
  • 17Minimum age to upgrade to C
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Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

What does a car licence in WA let you drive?

A C class licence lets you drive a motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, that:

  • has a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of no more than 4,500 kg
  • seats no more than 12 adults, including the driver

It also covers a moped.

Manual or automatic?

If you pass your practical driving assessment (PDA) in an automatic, your licence carries a condition that limits you to automatic cars. Your supervisor matters too: someone with an automatic-only licence can only supervise you in an automatic.

DTMI notes that fewer drivers have chosen a manual licence in recent years, as more automatic cars are made.

What the PDA checks →Supervisor rules →

Upgrading from C-A to C class

You must be at least 17. DTMI’s steps are to learn to drive a manual with a supervisor, submit an application form in person, then book and pass a PDA in a manual car.

Interstate licences for any class can be transferred to a WA licence without a PDA.

Booking a PDA →
Sources: Transport WA and 4 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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