The Government has announced major changes to New Zealand’s Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS), marking the first significant update since 2011. The changes aim to simplify the process, reduce costs, and make it easier for young people to obtain a full driver licence.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said, “These will be the first major changes to the driver licensing system since 2011, when the learner licence age was increased from 15 to 16.”
The most significant change is the removal of the full licence practical test for Class 1 (car) licences. This means drivers will no longer need to sit a second test after their restricted licence, which Mr Bishop says will save both time and money.
“Driver licences are essential for helping people access jobs, education, and healthcare,” he said. “For many young Kiwis, gaining a licence is a rite of passage, but the current system is expensive, outdated and no longer works as well as it should.”
Under the new system, the total cost of obtaining a Class 1 licence will drop from $362.50 to $282.50.
For drivers under 25, the learner licence period will be extended from six months to 12 months. However, those who complete an approved practical course or record sufficient supervised driving hours may reduce this period back to six months. The restricted licence period will also be 12 months for under 25s and six months for over 25s, but there will no longer be an option to shorten this by completing a defensive driving course.
Drivers who receive demerit points while on their restricted licence will have their restricted period extended by six months, rather than reset entirely. The current demerit threshold for suspension will remain unchanged.
Other changes include limiting eyesight checks to the first application and each renewal, expanding the zero-alcohol rule to all learner and restricted drivers regardless of age, and giving NZTA more power to oversee driver training providers.
Mr Bishop said, “These changes strike the right balance between cost, efficiency, and road safety. Drivers are still expected to prove they can drive safely and responsibly, including maintaining a clean demerit record, before progressing to a full licence.”
The hazard perception test will be moved from the full licence stage to the restricted test. Existing requirements for overseas and senior drivers remain unchanged.
The new system will take effect from 25 January 2027, with a Government review planned three years after implementation to assess its overall impact.
“Our young people and new drivers deserve a licensing system that is fair, accessible, and keeps them and others safe on the road,” Mr Bishop said.