How to get your drivers license in New Zealand
You’ve just arrived in New Zealand. Welcome!
Whether you’re here to work, study, or start a new life, there’s one thing that will make your day-to-day easier: a drivers license.
Because getting around is different here. Buses and trains are available, but they don’t always go where you need to go. A car gives you freedom. A drivers license helps you reach your job on time, take your kids to school, or explore the beautiful countryside on the weekend.
But don’t forget, in New Zealand, you can’t legally drive long-term without the proper licence. And if you’re planning to stay for more than a year, or you’re applying for residency, you’ll need a New Zealand drivers license.
Let’s break it all down
Step 1: Can you drive on your overseas licence?
Let’s start with the basics
If you’ve moved to New Zealand and already have a drivers license from another country, good news, you can use it here, but only for a limited time.
Here’s how it works:
You can drive with your overseas drivers license for up to 12 months from the day you arrive in New Zealand. It must be current and written in English (or you’ll need an official translation or international permit).
This 12-month clock doesn’t reset if you leave and come back. Once that time is up, you’ll need to convert your overseas licence to a New Zealand drivers license.
Still unsure? Ask yourself:
- •Is your stay longer than a year?
- •Are you planning to become a resident?
- •Do you want to drive here long-term?
If you answered “yes” to any of those, keep reading , you’ll need to apply for a New Zealand drivers license soon.
Step 2: Understand the New Zealand licence stages
To get a full drivers license in New Zealand, you’ll move through a three-stage process. This system is called the Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS) and it’s designed to build your skills safely.
Let’s break it down:
Learner Licence
This is your starting point. You must pass a theory test based on the official New Zealand Road Code.
Once you pass, you’ll receive a learner driver’s license.
But keep in mind — you can only drive with a supervisor sitting next to you.
Restricted Licence
After holding your learner licence for:
6 months (if you’re under 25), or
3 months (if you’re 25 or older)
if you’re 25 or older you can take a practical driving test. If you pass, you get a restricted driver’s license.
You can now drive alone but with a few conditions: No late-night driving and no passengers, unless they’re close family.
Full Licence
This is the final step. You must hold your restricted licence for:
18 months, or
6 months (if you’re 25+ and complete an advanced driving course).
Then, you take a full practical test. Pass it, and you’ll earn a full drivers license with zero restrictions.
But don’t forget, If you already have a driver’s license from an approved country, you might skip some of these steps.
Step 3: Book your test
Now that you know which drivers license stage you’re aiming for, it’s time to book your test.
Theory test: you’ll have to go to a driver licensing agent to book it in person.
Practical Driving tests: book online through the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA)
Here’s what you need to bring:
- 1. Valid ID (passport or New Zealand visa)
- 2. Proof of address in New Zealand
- 3. Your overseas driver’s license (if you’re converting it)
- 4. Glasses or contacts, if you need them for driving
You’ll also do a vision test on the spot and have your photo taken.
If you’re converting an overseas drivers license, you may also need a translation or an international driving permit if your licence isn’t in English. Once you’re booked, it’s time to study and practice.
Step 4: Study and practice
You can’t just show up and hope to pass. You need to study and practice, whether you’re taking the theory test or the practical driving test.
Theory Test (Learner licence)
You’ll need to pass the Learner Licence Theory Test to get your first drivers license in New Zealand. Grab a copy of the New Zealand Road Code. It’s your go-to guide for road rules, signs, and safe driving tips.
•Use free online mock tests.
•Study road signs, speed limits, and give-way rules.
•Practice every day — even 15 minutes helps.
This is a timed test. You’ll need to answer 35 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you need at least 32 correct.
Practical Driving tests (Restricted & Full)
If you’re aiming for your restricted or full driver’s license, practice is key.
Here’s what to do:
1. Take professional driving lessons. Instructors know exactly what testers look for.
2. Drive regularly with a qualified supervisor or instructor.
3. Practice in different weather, times of day, and traffic conditions.
4. Learn to do safe turns, parallel parking, lane changes, and hazard checks.
And remember…
Testers check your skills and your attitude. Stay calm, alert, and follow every rule. It’s not just about driving, it’s about driving safely. Once you feel ready, it’s time to take the test and earn your drivers license.
Step 5: Receive your licence
You passed the test? Great job!
Here’s what happens next.
Once you pass your theory or practical test, you’ll be issued a temporary paper drivers license on the spot. This lets you drive legally right away.
Your official plastic driver’s license will arrive in the mail within 2 to 3 weeks. Make sure the address you provide is correct, it will be sent directly to your home.
What if you fail the test?
Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Many people don’t pass on the first try. You can:
•Book another test
•Take more time to practice
•Learn from your mistakes
There’s no limit to how many times you can try. The goal is to make sure you’re safe and confident behind the wheel.
Once your licence arrives, check the expiry date and keep it in a safe spot. You’ll need to renew it every 10 years. With your new drivers license in hand, you’re ready to enjoy more freedom and independence in New Zealand.
Proposed changes to the GDLS in 2026
Big changes are coming. If you’re planning to get your drivers license in New Zealand. The government has proposed updates to the Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS) starting in July 2026. These changes aim to make the process faster and safer for everyone.
Removing the full licence practical test:
Now you have to pass two practical tests, one for the restricted licence and another for the full. In 2026, the full driver’s license test may be removed. That means fewer steps and less stress for drivers who’ve proven they’re safe on the road.
Requiring a clean driving record to progress:
Instead of a second test, you’ll need to keep a clean driving record while on your restricted licence. That means:
• No traffic offences
• No licence breaches
• No demerit points
Zero-Alcohol limit:
All new drivers, no matter their age, will have to stick to a zero-alcohol limit. One drink is one too many. Drive sober or don’t drive at all.
Lower demerit point thresholds:
Now you can get 100 demerit points before facing a suspension. Under the new rules, that limit will be lower for learners and restricted drivers.
Fewer vision tests:
There will be fewer vision checks in the new system, making it quicker for people to move through the licence stages.
Better course oversight:
The NZTA will tighten how advanced driving courses are approved and monitored. That means higher-quality training for everyone.
This blog is a general guide. For the latest rules, test requirements, and updates on getting a driver’s license in New Zealand, please visit the official NZTA website.
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