New Zealand Driver Licence

New Zealand Driver Licence (2025) – Application, Renewal & Conversion Guide

A New Zealand driver licence allows individuals to legally operate a motor vehicle in New Zealand and is also widely accepted as an official photo ID. Whether you’re a local resident, visitor, or new immigrant, this guide explains everything you need to know about applying, renewing, or converting your NZ driver licence.

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Types of New Zealand Driver Licences

New Zealand operates a three-stage graduated licensing system:

Licence Type	Description	Minimum Age
Learner (Class 1)	Supervised driving allowed	16 years
Restricted	Solo driving with conditions	16.5 years
Full	Unrestricted driving privileges	17.5 years

Classes 2–6 are for commercial or heavy vehicles (trucks, buses, motorcycles).

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Who Issues NZ Driver Licences?

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA/Waka Kotahi) manages licensing through driver licensing agents such as:

• AA (Automobile Association)
• VTNZ (Vehicle Testing New Zealand)

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How to Apply for a Learner Licence (First-Time Driver)

1. Pass the learner theory test (multi-choice road rules test)
2. Provide ID documents and a passport-quality photo
3. Submit a proof of address and application form
4. Pass an eye test at the licensing agent
5. Pay the application and test fees

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Required Documents (First-Time Application)

• Valid New Zealand or overseas passport (or NZ birth certificate)
• Proof of residency or visa status (for non-citizens)
• Proof of address (bank statement, utility bill, etc.)
• Completed application form
• Passport photo (or take one at the agent)

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Theory & Practical Driving Tests

Test Type	Purpose	Applies To
Theory Test	For learner licence (Class 1)	All first-time drivers
Restricted Test	Solo driving (basic road skills)	Learner licence holders
Full Licence Test	Advanced driving in various conditions	Restricted holders

📘 All tests are administered by Waka Kotahi-approved agents (AA, VTNZ).

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Licence Fees (2025)

Service	Cost (NZD)
Learner Licence (Class 1)	$96.10
Restricted Licence	$134.80
Full Licence (10-year validity)	$86.60
Renewal (after expiry)	$43.90
Theory Test Fee	$45.70
Practical Test (Restricted/Full)	$59.90–$88.50

💡 Fees may vary slightly by location or agent.

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Converting a Foreign Driver Licence

You can convert an overseas licence to a New Zealand licence if you:

✅ Hold a valid full licence (not learner or provisional)
✅ Are from a recognized country (e.g., Australia, UK, Canada, EU, Japan, South Korea, South Africa)
✅ Have your original licence and a certified translation (if not in English)
✅ Pass an eye test, and in some cases a theory or practical test

🔄 No tests required for most countries with reciprocal agreements.

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How Long Is a New Zealand Driver Licence Valid?

• 10 years (standard validity for full licences)
• Shorter validity if you’re 75 or older (medical certificates required)
• Must be renewed before expiry — no grace period

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Lost, Stolen, or Expired Licence?

If your NZ licence is lost, stolen, or expired:

1. Report it to NZTA or your local licensing agent
2. Apply for a replacement or renewal
3. Provide identity and address documents
4. Pay the applicable fee

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Is the NZ Driver Licence Valid Overseas?

✅ Yes – accepted as a driving permit in Australia, UK, EU, and many international countries
❌ For some countries (e.g., USA, Japan, UAE), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required

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