The first stage in getting your Car Licence is to get your Learner Licence. This involves sitting and passing a theory test based on the New Zealand road code.
What you need to know about your learner licence
- You must be at least 16 years old to sit your Learner Licence test.
- You can only drive with an accompanying driver who has had their Full Licence for a minimum of two years.
- Your car must display learner (L) plates front and rear.
- You may carry passengers but your accompanying driver has to agree to this.
- You can drive most light vehicles (cars, vans, utes, mopeds).
- You must have your learner licence for 6 months before applying for your restricted licence.
Find out more about learner licence conditions at nzta.govt.nz
Pre-test checklist
Six must do’s before you arrive for your Learner car licence test.
- Have you brought your current New Zealand Passport or two other approved forms of identification to confirm your identity and age? see our FAQs for a list of acceptable forms of identification.
- Have you completed the DL1 Application for issue or renewal of driver licence form? If you’re planning on filling one out at your local VTNZ branch you’ll need to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test.
- Have you brought in any prescription glasses or contact lenses you currently wear while driving?
- Have you paid for your Learner Licence test? Our branches accept cash, EFTPOS and all major credit cards.
- Have you studied? Make sure you know your Road Code before taking the test. Drive is a free website for young drivers that has an interactive road code to help you learn the road rules.
- Have you double checked when and where your test is? Make sure you know how to get to your test location and how long it takes to get there. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test.
Prepare for your Learner Licence test in four easy steps:
Check out our guide to getting ready for your test.
1. Study the road code
First up, make sure you get a copy of the lastest road code
- You can get a copy from your nearest VTNZ branch
- Or read it online
Changes to the Road Code
There have been some changes to the Road Code (effective December, 2014). If you are using an older version of the road code, it’s important that you are aware of these changes, as they may be included in your test.
We recommend you buy a Road Code from one of our driver licensing branches to ensure you are learning the latest rules.
2. Practice for your test
In the appendices sections of the Road Code are all of the questions that could come up during your theory test. This is a useful tool to test your knowledge, and once you feel confident that you are able to answer the questions correctly it is a good idea to try a practice test.
There are a couple of great resources available online to help you practice for your test:
- Drive is a free website for young drivers that has an interactive road code to help you learn the road rules.
- You can also buy official practice tests. The practice tests are identical to the computer test you will complete to get your Learner Licence and will help you to become familiar with the official testing environment.
3. Complete your application
When you feel confident that you know the Road Code well, you’ll be ready to book your test. You can come in to one of our driver licensing branches and our team will help you complete your application.
What to bring in with you:
- Your current New Zealand Passport or two other acceptable forms of identification to confirm your identity and age
- The filled out application form (DL1) - print it out and complete it ahead of time here
- A medical certificate (if required)
- Any prescription glasses or contact lenses you currently wear
At our branch you will need to:
- Fill out the application form (if you haven’t already)
- Complete an eyesight screening check or present your eyesight certificate
- Have your photo taken and sign your licence
- Book a time to do your theory test
- Read about current fees
- Pay for your test – Read about current fees here
4. Sit your test
You should be able to complete your test on the same day that you finish your application process (subject to availability), or you can book in for another day if you need some more time to prepare.
- The test will consist of 35 multi-choice questions.
- To pass, you need to get at least 32 questions correct, so take your time to read and think about each question.
- You have 30 minutes to complete the test and can request more time if necessary.
Re-sitting your test
Don’t worry if you don’t pass on the first go – you can always try again. If you get more than three questions wrong or miss your appointment time, you will be required to re-sit your test.
You should be able to re-book and sit your test, including paying another $47.40, on the same day if you like. If you need some more time to study, you can book for a later date.
What happens when I pass?
You’ll probably feel a sense of achievement – and relief! You will be issued with your temporary licence and your photographic licence will be posted in the mail.
Make sure you pick up some L plates for the next step. They’re available in branch for only $5.99. You’re required to have your L plates on the front and rear of your vehicle at all times when you’re learning to drive.
What’s next?
You have at least six months on your Learner Licence to practice and become a confident driver before you can sit your Restricted Licence. Head over to our Restricted Licence page to learn about the next step in getting your Car Licence.
Any further questions?
- Check our Frequently asked questions to see if your question has been answered
- Visit the NZ Transport Agency’s website or call their Driver Licensing helpline on 0800 822 422.
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