The government is reforming New Zealand’s Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS) to cut costs and simplify the process for young drivers.
“These will be the first major changes to the driver licensing system since 2011, when the learner licence age was increased from 15 to 16,” Transport Minister Chris Bishop said.
“Driver licences are essential for helping people access jobs, education, and healthcare. For many young Kiwis, gaining a licence is a rite of passage, but the current system is expensive, outdated and no longer works as well as it should.
“Internationally, New Zealand is an outlier in requiring a second practical driving test when moving from a restricted licence to a full licence.”
Key changes include eliminating the second practical test for advancing from restricted to full licence, which saves time and money, plus extending the learner period for under-25s to 12 months (up 6 months).
Under-25s can shorten their 12-month learner period back to six months by logging practice hours or finishing an approved practical course.
Eyesight screenings will be required only at the initial licence application and each renewal.
Overall, the total cost for a Class 1 (car) licence will drop by $80 under the new system.
“Under the current system, the total cost of getting a Class 1 car licence is $362.50. Under the new system, the total cost will be $282.50, a saving of $80,” Bishop said.
The new system takes effect on 25 January 2027; current licensing rules apply until then.
More information can be found on the NZTA website: www.nzta.govt.nz/car-licence-changes