Prospective drivers can obtain their licences sooner than expected, with VicRoads offering new appointments from October 5, a month earlier than anticipated.
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A boost to testing capacity has seen the number of testing bays at VicRoads' East Bendigo site increase from two to five, more than doubling the number of tests that can be undertaken each week.
Bendigo Highway Patrol senior sergeant Ian Brooks stressed the need for caution by and towards inexperienced drivers, ahead of a predicted surge in learner drivers and new licence holders on Bendigo roads.
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"Everybody at one particular point in their life was an inexperienced driver," Senior Sergeant Brooks said.
"People have waited a few months to get their licence and go on the road, some have even had cars sitting in the garage for a long time, polishing them with their L plates on.
"My word of caution is once you are out there by yourself, it is a lot harder than it looks."
On September 20, Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said licence testing could resume in regional Victoria, with new appointments expected from November.
A backlog of 370 appointments, to be rebooked as a result of COVID-19 cancellations, have cleared and customers were offered new appointments.
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All Pass Driving School driving instructor Tony Barber said the Lansell Street site typically undertakes 70 driving tests per week.
"There are more finishing bays available, with three new driving bays for drivers to turn into when they complete their test," Mr Barber said.
Senior Sergeant Brooks said experienced drivers should be setting the example for newcomers to the road.
"Set a good example, drive to the conditions, slow down and drive on or below the speed limit," he said.
"We are going to get an influx of new drivers on the road, they are not perfect, so it's important to be patient with them."
