Consultation on driver licence changes open

14 April 2025

The Government is proposing the first major changes to New Zealand’s driver licence system since 2011.

The proposed changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing System are:

• Removing the full test
• Introducing a clean driving record requirement to the restricted licence
• Reducing the demerit threshold for novice drivers to have their licence suspended
• Introducing a zero-alcohol limit for novice drivers
• Improving NZTA’s oversight of approved advanced driver courses
• Reducing the number of vision tests

The removal of the full licence test would apply to car licences only. There would be no change to licence requirements for overseas licence conversions, senior drivers, or licence reinstatements.

The consultation will be open from 14 April to 9 June 2025.

To submit on the consultation, head to the consultation hub here.(external link)