Car Driver (SA)

Education and Training:

You can work as a car driver without formal qualifications but you will need to obtain a specific licence.

To work as a taxi driver in the metropolitan area, you must obtain a 'T' extension from the Department of Transport. You must also complete a Taxi Driver training course with Australian Workforce Training, Transport and Communications Training Academy of WA, WA Advanced Training Academy or Western Australian Road Transport Association (WARTA).

Following completion of the training, you must complete a registration test administered by Department of Transport assessors. This is a simulated on-road test. Testing can be arranged through your training provider. Country applicants do not have to undergo the formal training or registration test.

Most companies operating chauffeur-driven hire cars have vehicles with tour coach (TC) plates or small charter vehicle (SCV) plates, and therefore require their drivers to hold a current C-class (sedan car or limousine) drivers licence with an F-extension (bus or coach). Private driving courses are available and the cost and duration of these vary.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Taxi drivers in the metropolitan area drive for privately licensed operators based on shifts. Generally, taxi drivers are paid on the basis of 50 per cent of the shift's takings.

The demand for taxi services varies at different times of the day and throughout the year.

Holders of Small Passenger Vehicle Driver Accreditation may drive for small passenger vehicle companies accredited by the Passenger Transport Board. These transport providers operate both inside and outside of the metropolitan area and services range from general passenger services to weddings and special occasions, tours and novelty rides. Applicants should approach the relevant company directly or contact the Chauffeured Vehicle Association.

Chauffeurs/hire car drivers work for government departments, hotels and private hire car companies. Self-employed chauffeur/hire car drivers are often subcontracted to private companies.