Who can drive in New Zealand?

Article

Driving in New Zealand may be different to what you are used to. You must know the New Zealand road rules, what the road signs mean and how to drive safely before you start driving in New Zealand.

You can find out more in the New Zealand Road Code and Driving in New Zealand.

Driving in New Zealand | NZTA
New Zealand Road Code | NZTA

Converting to a New Zealand licence

You can drive on an overseas driver licence for 18 months from the date you last entered New Zealand. After 18 months you must convert to a New Zealand licence or stop driving. 

If your licence is from a non-exempt country including China, India and the Philippines you must pass a theory test and a practical driving test to convert to a New Zealand licence.

If your licence is from an exempt country that has a similar licensing system and requires similar driving skills to New Zealand, you’ll only need to sit a practical driving test to convert your licence if you’ve held it for less than 2 years.

For more information go to: Converting to a New Zealand driver licence 

Being safe on the road | NZ Police

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