Applying for a New Zealand driver licence

Anyone is able to drive inNew Zealand, provided they have a legal current driver licence.

When do I need to apply for a New Zealand licence?

With an international driver licence you may drive for up to a the period of 12 months before converting to a New Zealand licence, although do not leave it to the last minute to convert as you may be required to have a medical or extended eye test.

Do I have to sit any tests?

Learning the road rules in New Zealand is particularly important because of the country’s unique Give Way rule (when you are turning left, you must give way to vehicles that are coming from the opposite direction and turning right). The Official New Zealand Road Code has all the information you need to know.

Depending on the country you come from or the class of licence you are converting, you may not have to sit theory and/or practical tests. You do not have to sit the theory test if:

• You hold a driver licence from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom or the United States of America, and
• Your licence is current (or has expired less than 12 months ago) and
• You are converting a car or motorcycle licence

Additionally, you will also be exempt from taking the practical test if you hold a current driver licence issued from one of the countries mentioned above and you have held that licence for more than two years.

If your country is not listed above, you will need to sit a theory and a practical test. The theory test relates to the Official New Zealand Road Code and consists of multiple-choice questions on a scratch card basis. You are allowed a maximum of three incorrect answers before failing the test.

The Road Code, which is only available in hard copy, can be purchased through driver licensing centres and selected bookstores. It consists of two volumes, The Road Code and the Licence and Study Guide, which contains theory test questions and driver licensing information. New Zealand does have some signs and rules that are different to other countries, so it is worth purchasing the guide and studying, even if you don’t have to take a test.

Where do I go to get my licence?

Application forms and information about converting your licence can be obtained from driver licensing agents (such as Automobile Association 'AA' offices), or alternatively contact Land Transport New Zealand's Driver Licensing Call Centre on 0800 822 422 with any queries.

What do I need to take?

At the time of taking the test you must take with you:

• Application form
• Identification
• Evidence of your residential address in New Zealand
• Eyesight and/or medical certificate (if applicable)
• Payment

NB: All documents should be originals and no photocopies. At the time of taking the test you will also have a photo taken which will be visible on your new licence.

Are there any websites I can visit for more information?

For more information go to www.landtransport.govt.nz or visit the AA at www.aa.co.nz