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
This information applies to licences for cars, motorcycles and heavy motor vehicles only.
No — I don't have a current overseas driver licence or international driving permit
If you don't have a current overseas driver licence or international driving permit, you cannot drive.
You must apply for a New Zealand driver licence.
Yes — I do have a current overseas driver licence or international driving permit
If you do have a current 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.
Each time you visit New Zealand, you can drive for a further 12-month period on a valid overseas licence or international driving permit, as long as you stay for no more than a year at a time.
What happens after one year?
If you are using an overseas licence or an international driving permit, you must convert to a New Zealand driver licence before one year has passed. (Apply for a conversion early, to make sure you have a new licence before the one year is up.)
This information was sourced from Land Transport October 2006.
Related Information
Land Transport New Zealand
Please visit the Land Transport New Zealand website for more information.