New residents and visitors - driving in New Zealand
For more information, visit Land Transport NZ..
Can I drive in New Zealand?
Do you have a current and valid* overseas driver licence or international driving permit?
*A current and valid overseas driver licence means that your licence allows you to legally drive in your own country. If you are disqualified from driving or your licence is currently suspended, expired or revoked, then you are not allowed to drive in New Zealand.
No – I don't have a current overseas driver licence or international driving permit
If you do not have a current overseas driver licence, you cannot drive.
You must apply for a New Zealand driver licence if you wish to drive here. See Factsheet 45, Learning to drive: How to get your licence for more information.
Yes – I do have a current overseas driver licence or international driving permit
If you do have a current and valid overseas driver licence or international driving permit, you can drive using that for a maximum of 12 months from the date you arrive in New Zealand. Note: if your overseas licence or permit isn't in English, you must carry an accurate translation. See Other information you need to know below for more information.
Each time you visit New Zealand, you can drive for a further 12-month period on your overseas licence or international driving permit.
What happens after one year?
If you wish to drive after one year, you must first gain a New Zealand driver licence. We recommend you apply early to make sure you have a new licence before the one year is up.
Forms to use to apply for an overseas licence conversion are available from NZ Transport Agency driver licensing agents.
Depending on the country you have come from, you may have to pass theory and/or a practical driving tests.
