Getting Your Learner Licence

Study the NZ Road Code

To get a New Zealand learner licence (Class 1), you must be at least 16 years old, pass a 35-question theory test.

The official New Zealand Road Code is primarily available as an interactive, up-to-date website rather than an official downloadable PDF, ensuring you have the latest road rules. You can study the full Road Code for free online, including theory test questions, at the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi website or drive.govt.nz.

Preparation

You can study using the official Road Code or take free practice tests online. Knowing your right-hand rules and give-way signs is essential.

Key free online resources:

• nzta.govt.nz - This is the official Government website with the full up-to-date, comprehensive version of the NZ Road Code
• Drive.govt.nz - This highly interactive website is run by NZTA and designed for learners
• aa.co.nz - You can purchase the various resources to help you prepare for your test through the AA.
• DrivingTests.co.nz - This a third-party site with free practice quizzes that mirror the NZ Road Code. This site also offers a specific "Learner Licence Plus" course that includes full audio recordings for every question. Students can click a speaker icon to hear the questions and answers read aloud, which helps them familiarise themselves with the test environment.

Booking your test

You must book and apply in person at an NZTA agent (like AA or VTNZ). You will need to bring proof of identity, pass an eyesight screening and pay the application fee.

Find a driver licensing agent in your area >>

Identification

When you head to a licensing agent (like AA or VTNZ), you must bring original documents to prove who you are. Photocopies or scans won’t be accepted.

Option 1: The easiest way

Present your New Zealand Passport (current or expired within the last 2 years). This is all you need.

Option 2: If you don't have one of those

You’ll need to provide two different documents: one from the "Primary" list and one from the "Supporting" list.

• Primary ID (Choose 1):
  • NZ Birth Certificate (issued after 1998)
  • Overseas Passport (current or expired within 2 years)
  • NZ Citizenship Certificate
• Supporting ID (Choose 1):
  • Student ID card (with your photo and school logo)
  • Kiwi Access / 18+ Card
  • Bank statement or utility bill (issued in the last 6 months—cannot be a mobile bill)
  • IRD number

Important extras

• Name Changes: If the name on your ID is different from the name you use now (e.g., you’ve married or changed it legally), you must bring an original Marriage Certificate or Name Change Certificate to link them.
• Photo: At least one of your IDs should have a photo. If neither does, you’ll need to bring a passport-style photo and a referee (someone who has known you for a year) to sign a declaration.

NZTA has more information on proof of identification and a 'right ID check' >>

All about the eye test

To keep everyone safe, you must prove your vision is good enough to drive. Here is the short version of what you need to know.

You can do a quick test at the licensing agent (like AA or VTNZ) or bring an eyesight certificate from your doctor or optometrist (the certificate must be under 60 days old).

• Glasses/Contacts: It is fine to wear them for the test! Just remember, you must then wear them every time you drive
• Monocular Vision: If you only have sight in one eye, you must provide a certificate from a professional
• Language: You cannot use an interpreter for the test at the agent. If you aren't confident with the English instructions, get a certificate from your doctor instead.

Top Tip: If you think you might struggle with the machine at the agent, book an appointment with your local optometrist first. It saves time and stress at the counter!

Extra support for the official test

It is important to know that once you are ready to take the actual theory test at a driver licensing agent, you can request extra help:

• Audio support - You can ask for the test to be conducted with headphones, where each question and answer is read out by the computer.
• Reader support - In some cases, a student may be eligible to have a person read the questions to them. 

Passing the test

Once you pass, you will receive a temporary paper licence. Your official yellow card will arrive in the mail. You must always display L plates and have a supervisor in the front passenger seat.