International Students
You need to be 16 years old or over to drive in New Zealand. All drivers must have a current and valid New Zealand driver’s license, International Driving Permit, or overseas license. You can drive on an overseas license for 12 months. Anyone with a license that is not in English must get an authorized translation.
After 12 months you need to apply for a New Zealand license. Carry your license with you at all times when driving.
To drive a motorbike in New Zealand you must get a motorbike licence. There are three stages to getting a license. You must pass a test at each stage, that is, a written and two practical driving tests.
License conditions: Learner license When learning to drive, you must have a supervisor with you at all times when driving (a person who holds and has held a full license for at least two years). No passengers unless you are accompanied by a supervisor.
Restricted license: You can drive on your own between 5 am and 10 pm. To drive at other times you must have a supervisor with you. No passengers unless you are accompanied by a supervisor.
Full license: You can drive on your own and take passengers at any time.
For more information on how to get a license, see factsheet 45 Learning to drive: how to get your license, available on the NZTA website: www.nzta.govt.nz
Printed brochures for what’s different about driving in NZ: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/driving-in-nz/ (multiple languages)
Rules and restrictions for driving in NZ: https://www.nzta.govt.nz/driver-licences/new-residents-and-visitors/driving-on-nz-roads/
In New Zealand, we drive on the left-hand side of the road. The Police enforce the driving laws and there are penalties for breaking them such as fines, having your license taken off, having your vehicle taken off you, or you can be sent to jail.
You must get a copy of the New Zealand Road Code (the Road Code) and learn the road rules, traffic signs, and signals for driving here. NZTA also has a factsheet for visitors to New Zealand: factsheet 56 New residents and visitors: driving in New Zealand. You can access both the Road Code and Factsheet 56 through the NZTA website, go to: www.nzta.govt.nz. Copies of the Road Code can also be purchased through all larger bookstores.
It is highly recommended you complete a defensive driving course. These courses help drivers, who already have some experience, to learn how to drive safely in New Zealand. Defensive driving courses are available in most towns and cities. Approved course providers
There are two approved advanced driving courses.