Moving to New Zealand is an exciting journey, and for many immigrants, being able to drive is essential for work, family, and exploring the country. Whether you’re here temporarily or planning to settle long-term, here’s what you need to know about driving legally in New Zealand Aotearoa.
Tips for New Drivers in NZ
- Drive on the left side of the road.
- Speed limits are in kilometres per hour.
- When approaching a roundabout, you must signal accordingly and give way to all traffic coming from your right.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Mobile phone use while driving is illegal.
- Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially in rural areas.
- Drive to the conditions, and be aware that NZ weather can be hard to predict and you might experience four seasons in a day depending on where you are.
First of All: Learn the Road Code
You might think “How hard can it be to drive in a small country like New Zealand?”, but depending on where you come from, there are many rules and road signs that might be a surprise to you. If you intend to get behind the wheel, or even if not, take some time to get familiar with the NZ road code, as it will prepare you for the country’s particular conditions and help you prevent accidents that commonly involve foreigners.
The most important thing to remember is that in New Zealand, you must drive on the left side of the road (to help you remember, you can think of the phrase “left is best”). Cars usually have the steering wheel on the right, meaning that the driver should be closer to the centre line, and not the passenger. Also, roundabouts circulate clockwise and traffic coming from your right have right-of-way. An accessible way to learn the rules and test your knowledge through quizzes is available on Drive, an official website Developed by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and ACC.
Learning the road code: check. Now what? Expand the topics below to learn more:
Can I Drive on my Overseas Licence?
Yes—if you hold a valid overseas car licence, you can drive in New Zealand for up to 18 months from the date you last entered the country.
This change from the previous 12-month limit started in November 2024. It’s a temporary rule designed to reduce pressure on New Zealand’s licensing system, which had more overseas licence conversions than domestic driving tests the year before. The 18-month limit will stay in place for two years, after which it will return to the original 12-month rule.
If you’re driving a motorcycle or heavy vehicle, the limit is still 12 months.
Moving to New Zealand is an exciting journey, and for many immigrants, being able to drive is essential for work, family, and exploring the country. Whether you’re here temporarily or planning to settle long-term, here’s what you need to know about driving legally in Aotearoa.
Important Conditions for Driving on an Overseas Licence
- You must carry your original overseas licence when driving, and it must be current and valid.
- If your licence is not in English, you must also carry either:
- An accurate English translation (from an NZTA-approved translator, embassy, or issuing authority), or
- An International Driving Permit (IDP)
Driving without a valid licence (and translation or permit if applicable) can result in fines up to NZ$1,000, and your vehicle may be impounded.
When Should I Convert My Licence?
When your 18 months is up, you will need to convert your overseas licence to a New Zealand licence, or stop driving. You should allow plenty of time to convert your licence as it’s a multi-step process and it may take a while to book a test.
Now here’s an important detail that can benefit both tourists and immigrants: if you leave New Zealand and come back, your 18 months will start again, meaning you might be able to use your overseas licence (as long as it’s valid) for a longer period if you happen to travel abroad.
It’s important to note that there are advantages to having a New Zealand licence:
- It is an accepted form of ID in most situations, meaning you won’t need to carry your passport at all times.
- For most people, your NZ driver licence is valid for 10 years, meaning you won’t have to renew it for a long time (unless you get suspended or disqualified).
Converting to a New Zealand Driver Licence
If you plan to stay longer than 18 months and want to keep driving, you’ll need to convert your overseas licence.
Exempt vs Non-Exempt Countries
New Zealand has agreements with several countries whose licensing systems are considered similar. If you’re from one of these exempt countries (e.g., Australia, UK, USA, Germany, Japan…), you may not need to sit theory or practical tests.
Important: there are requirements you must meet, so make sure to check the full list of exempt countries and other details here.
If you’re from a non-exempt country, you’ll need to:
- Pass a theory test
- Pass a practical driving test
Steps to Convert Your Licence (click to expand)
- Check your eligibility based on your country of origin.
- Book an appointment at a specialist overseas conversion site.
- Bring required documents (including but not limited to: your current overseas licence, proof of identity, English translation if applicable)
- Complete the application and pay the required fees.
- Pass the tests (if required). If any tests are required, there will be a period when you’ll get an NZ driver licence with a supervisor condition. This licence overrides your overseas driver licence, and you must only drive with a supervisor next to you in the front seat until you’ve passed your practical driving test.
- If you’re over 18, you will receive a full licence.
Image credits: NZTA – New Zealand Transport Agency
What If I Don’t Have an Overseas Licence?
If you don’t have a driver licence from another country, you’ll need to go through New Zealand’s full licensing process to legally drive, which takes significantly longer (18 months at the very least).
Steps to Get a New Zealand Driver Licence
- Apply for a learner licence:
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- Pass a theory test based on the New Zealand Road Code.
- Once you pass, you’ll get a learner licence, which comes with restrictions (e.g., you must be supervised while driving).
- Progress to a restricted licence:
- After holding your learner licence for at least 6 months, you can take a practical driving test.
- A restricted licence allows you to drive alone, but with some limitations (e.g., no passengers unless supervised).
- Get a full licence:
- After holding your restricted licence for a set period (usually 12–18 months, depending on age and training), you can apply for a full licence.
- You’ll need to pass another practical test.
Helpful Tips
- You can study the New Zealand Road Code online or buy a copy.
- Driving lessons with a qualified instructor can help you prepare for the tests.
- Make sure your visa allows you to stay long enough to complete the process.
How Woburn International Can Help
At Woburn International, we understand that moving to a new country involves more than just packing bags — it’s about navigating systems, settling in, and feeling at home. That’s why we offer comprehensive support for immigrants, including help with driver licensing and other essential relocation tasks.
Our Services Include:
- Driver Licence Assistance: We guide you through the process of getting your overseas licence translated, converting it into a New Zealand licence, or applying for it if you don’t have one.
- Relocation Support: From finding a home and schools to setting up bank accounts and internet, we handle the details so you can focus on settling in.
- Immigration Advice: Our licensed immigration advisers help with visa applications, renewals, and compliance — with a 100% success rate across all visa types.
- Personalised Help: Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a company relocating staff, our consultants offer tailored support every step of the way.
With over 25 years of experience and more than 10,000 successful relocations, Woburn International is your trusted partner for a smooth transition to life in New Zealand.
Final Thoughts
Driving in New Zealand can be a great way to explore the country and manage daily life. Just make sure you’re following the rules and converting your licence on time, and reach out to Woburn if you’d like assistance throughout the process for a smoother experience.
