Educating young people about driver licensing changes

Changes to the driver licensing system may soon start to affect young people who are getting licensed to drive this year. 

Most of the changes start from 25 January 2027, and include the following if you're under 25; 

• Time on your learner licence will extend from 6 to 12 months. 

• You can reduce your learner period to 6 months by completing an approved learner licence course or logging supervised driving hours 

• Time on your restricted licence will reduce from 18 to 12 months if you have a clean driving record. 

• Demerit points on your restricted licence could extend your restricted time. 

• You won't have to sit a second practical driving test to get a full licence, most people can apply online for a full licence. 

• Hazard perception testing moves from the full test to the restricted test. 

These changes aim to rebalance the system by giving learners more driving experience and skills so they can drive safely on their own.  

You can find information, factsheets, flyers and infographics to help educate students about the changes here: 

Changes to getting a car licence | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi