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Road Code Ready

Module 1: The licensing system and your responsibilities · Lesson 1 of 6

Three stages to a full licence

In New Zealand you get a car licence in steps. This is called the graduated driver licensing system (GDLS) (the three-stage system that takes you from learner to full licence).

The three stages

  1. Learner licence – you drive only with a supervisor.
  2. Restricted licence – you can drive alone, with some limits.
  3. Full licence – no learner or restricted conditions.

You must finish each stage before you move to the next. You must pass the theory test before you can start stage 1.

  • You can apply for a learner licence from age 16.
  • You can apply for a restricted licence from age 16½.

How long you stay on each stage

The rules change on 25 January 2027. The picture shows both systems for drivers under 25.

Under 25: minimum time on each licence(bars drawn to the same scale)Until 24 January 2027Learner6 monthsRestricted18 months• Restricted cut to 12 months with an approved advanced driving course• Then pass the full licence practical testFrom 25 January 2027Learner12 monthsRestricted12 months• Learner cut to 6 months with an approved learner licence course OR logged supervised driving hours (up to 60 hours; rules still being finalised)• Each time you get demerits on restricted: +6 months• Then full licence with no practical test

Check your understanding

2 quick questions. Your answers count towards your topic scores.

Question 1 of 2

What is the youngest age at which you can apply for a learner licence?

Question 2 of 2

You are 17 and got your learner licence on 1 September 2026. You don't do a learner licence course or log any hours. What is the minimum time you must hold your learner licence before you can get your restricted?