Get ready for your learner licence test
Prepare for your NZ learner licence theory test - what to bring, how it works, the eyesight check, and a free AA Road Code Practice Test to help you learn the Road Code.
The learner test at a glance
The learner licence theory test checks your knowledge of the New Zealand Road Code. Here's what to know before you sit it.
16
Minimum age to sit the test
Multiple choice
Computerised test sat at a licensing outlet
32 out of 35
Correct answers needed to pass
13
Language options available including Māori, Chinese and Hindi
Eyesight requirements
Before you sit the theory test, the agent will check your eyesight. It's quick, and you can wear your glasses or contact lenses for it.
A quick eyesight screen
Pass it and you can sit the theory test the same visit.
Wear glasses or contacts?
If you need these to pass the eyesight check, your licence will have a condition that you must always wear these while driving.
If you don't pass the eyesight check, you will still be able to continue with your application and theory test, however you will not get your licence until you have provide a satisfactory eyesight or medical certificate that is no more than 60 days old.
Prepare before you sit the test
Study the Road Code and practise with real test-style questions. The better prepared you are, the more likely you are to pass the first time.
Ready to book?
Some AA Driver Licensing outlets allow you to book your test online. For all others, you will need to do this in person.
What to bring on the day
- Evidence of your identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of your current New Zealand address.
- Your glasses or contact lenses if you require them.
- Completed DL1 application form (or you can complete it at the AA Driver Licensing outlet on the day).
- A medical certificate if required.
- Payment for the application or test fee.
- Yourself! Arrive a few minutes early so you don’t miss your appointment.
When you pass
Pass the theory test and you're officially a learner driver. Here's what happens next.
- You'll be given a temporary learner licence to use until your photo licence arrives in the mail.
- You must display yellow L plates on the front and rear of any car you drive.
- You're ready to start driving with a supervisor. AA offers a range of driving lessons to help you on your journey to your restricted licence.
Where this fits in your licensing journey
The learner licence is the first of three stages on the way to your full licence.
Frequently asked questions
You must be at least 16 years old before you can book and sit the learner licence theory test, and you’ll need to bring evidence of your identity.
The learner licence theory test has 35 multiple-choice questions. You'll need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass.
Some AA Driver Licensing outlets allow you to book your test online. For all others, you will need to do this in person.
Yes. As part of your learner licence application, you'll need to complete an eyesight test at your AA Licensing outlet.
If you don't pass your learner licence theory test the first time, your application fee covers a second attempt. You will need to book another time to sit this. For each test after the second attempt, there is an additional fee.
If you pass, you'll receive a temporary learner licence to use until your photo licence arrives in the mail. You can also purchase L plates if you need them.
An appointed NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi driver licensing agent
100,000+ driving lessons completed every year
Helping New Zealanders drive since 1967
AA Driving School is operated by AA Driver Training Limited. AA Driving School provides driving lessons, Road Code practice tests, licence test preparation, and the AA Defensive Driving Course. Official driver licence tests are conducted by NZTA-authorised testing agents. The New Zealand Automobile Association (Incorporated) separately acts as an agent of NZTA for the learner licence theory test.