Learner driver caught at 186km/h in NT

A learner driver has been nabbed allegedly doing 186km/h on the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory, more than 100km/h above what his licence conditions allow.

The 22-year-old was detained by traffic patrols on Wednesday, 30km south of Elliott.

With just a learner's permit, he was required to travel at no more than 80km/h.

Sergeant Conan Robertson said such speeding could have catastrophic consequences.

"An inexperienced driver with four passengers travelling 106km/h over the allowed limit for his capabilities, and 56km/h over the posted speed limit is beyond reckless," he said.

"He and his passengers are lucky to still be alive."

The driver has been charged with driving at a dangerous speed and will appear in the Tennant Creek Magistrates Court on March 15.