Driver Licences

Graduated Driver's Licence System

In New Zealand we have a 3 stage licencing process which we call the Graduated Driver's Licence System.

Learner's licence

To obtain your learner's licence you must be at least 16 years old. You must also:

Pass the NZTA road rules theory test.
Stay on your learner's licence for 6 months.
Only drive with a supervisor sitting beside you at all times. Your supervisor must hold a current full New Zealand car licence which does not have a supervisor condition.
They must have held their full New Zealand licence (or an equivalent overseas licence) for at least two years.
Have your learner's licence with you at all times when you drive.
Display L plates on the front and back of your vehicle.
Only carry passengers if the supervisor agrees to this.

Restricted licence

To obtain your restricted licence you need to be at least 16 1/2 years old. You also need to pass the restricted licence test. If you are under 25 then you need to stay on your restricted licence for at least 18 months. If you are 25 or over then the time is reduced to 6 months.These times are reduced further if you pass a defensive driving course.

Restrictions:

You must have your licence with you at all times when you drive.
You must not drive alone between the hours of 10pm and 5am.
You must not carry passengers in your vehicle unless you have a supervisor with you.

Exceptions:

Usually any family member, be it partner, parent or child living with you.

Full licence

To obtain your full Licence you need to be at least 17 years old. You also need to:

Pass the full licence test.
Carry your licence with you whenever you drive.