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Requirements for getting a learner licence

A learner licence is the first step of the three-stage process to get a full driver licence.

You need a learner licence before you can learn to drive in a car, van or ute. It also lets you learn on a moped. Motorcycles need their own specialised licence before you can drive them.

To get a learner licence you must:

  • be at least 16 years old
  • pass a computer-based, multi-choice theory test about the road code.

Preparing for your learner licence test

The official New Zealand road code explains all the road rules to follow when driving. These rules are essential to being a safe driver. That’s why you need to pass this test before you can start learning to drive on the road.

The Drive Road Code breaks down the official New Zealand road code into interactive learning units which allow you to track your progress. Here’s how it works:

  • Work through short interactive units which are grouped into 12 chapters.
  • Complete each chapter test to check you’re on the right track.
  • Pass 3 chapter tests to unlock 1 official practice test.
  • Pass all 12 chapter tests to get unlimited practice tests.

Sign up to save your progress and unlock official practice tests.

Make sure you’re fully prepared for your driver licence test. If you don’t pass, you may need to wait a while to get another time slot.

If you fail your learner licence test twice on the same day, you’ll need to wait 10 working days before you can sit the test again.

Drive Road Code

Booking your learner licence test

When you feel you’re ready, go to a driver licensing agent to fill out the application form and book a time for your test.   
 
Agents include most AA offices and some VTNZ stations.

You can download the application form and fill it out in advance, or get a copy from the driver licensing agent when you go in.

Make sure you bring proof of your identity, such as a current New Zealand passport. If you don’t have a passport you’ll need to provide other identification.

You’ll also need to:

  • pass the eye test (bring your glasses or contact lenses if you normally wear them)
  • have your photo taken and provide a signature
  • pay the learner licence application fee of $96.10
  • book a time for your test – you might be able to sit the test on the same day, or you may need to come back another day. 

Find a driver licensing agent in your area – NZTA

Identification requirements – NZTA

Application form – NZTA

Languages and reading difficulties

If you have trouble reading, please talk to the staff when you book the test. 

You may be able to get:

  • extra time to complete the test
  • a helper who can read the test out for you.

You can apply to sit the learner test in one of the following languages:

  • Arabic
  • Chinese (simplified and traditional)
  • Filipino
  • Gujarati
  • Hindi
  • Korean
  • Māori
  • Punjabi
  • Samoan
  • Thai
  • Tongan

If your language isn’t available, you may be able to use an interpreter.