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Full driver licences

The third step in New Zealand’s three-step graduated driver licensing system (GDLS) is getting your full licence. It's a practical in-car driving test.

The information below is a guide to getting your full licence.

Book your test through the AA

Visit your nearest AA Centre, AA Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agent or Rural Mobile Unit to book a full licence test. Please note, we can't accept phone or email bookings for the test, and not all locations are suitable for full licence practical tests.

On 27 February 2012 the driver licence tests changed.

For more information call 0800 822 422 or visit the NZTA website.

You'll need to:

Bring evidence of identity, e.g. your restricted driver licence or passport
Bring evidence of your address, e.g. a bank statement
Pay the fee
Pass an eyesight screening check
Have your photograph taken
Book your in-car driving test

Full driver licence test eligibility

If under 25 years old you must have held your restricted driver licence for at least 18 months or at least 12 months if you've completed a Defensive Driving Course. You need to be at least 18 years old. If you have completed a Defensive Driving Course, this is reduced to 17 and a half.

If over 25 years old you must have held your restricted driver licence for at least 6 months or at least 3 months if you've completed a Defensive Driving Course.

Find out more about AA Defensive Driving Courses.

After the full licence test

If you pass your full driver licence test, you can drive any time and with passengers in the car.

If you don't pass your full driver licence test you can re-sit the test (unlimited number of times). You will need to bring proof of identity and pay the test fee for each full licence test re-sit.