Sydney - Two Brisbane detectives look set for a refresher course after having their unmarked police car stolen by a man they had just arrested and clapped in handcuffs.

Mark Nolan, 29, made off with the vehicle Tuesday just minutes after his arrest on a breaking-and-entering charge.

"We will be undertaking a thorough investigation of all the circumstances in Mr Nolan being able to drive away in the police car," Deputy Commissioner Ian Stewart told reporters in Brisbane.

Nolan had been placed in the back but climbed over into the driver's seat and drove off while the two detectives were outside the vehicle.

The car was found an hour later with the keys still in the ignition. Nolan, who may still be wearing handcuffs, was still at large. (dpa)