Skip to content
Road Code Ready

Module 1: The licensing system and your responsibilities · Lesson 2 of 6

The learner theory test

Applying for your learner licence

You must be at least 16. You apply at a driver licensing agent (an approved office that handles licence applications and tests). You need to:

  • fill in the application form (DL1)
  • show your ID
  • pass an eyesight check (you can also do this at an optometrist)
  • have your photo and signature taken
  • pay the $96.10 application fee.

The agent books your theory test. They may book it straight away, so learn the road rules before you go.

The test itself

Learner theory test: 35 questionsPass: at least 32 right (✓)3 wrong is the most you can get (✗)
  • It is on a computer, with 35 multi-choice questions.
  • It has general Road Code questions and special questions about driving cars.
  • Questions come in a random order. You can change your answer, but it locks when you move to the next question.
  • You must get at least 32 right. If you get more than 3 wrong, you need to book another test.

When you pass

You get a temporary learner licence, valid for 21 days, until your photo licence card arrives in the post. Your learner licence is valid for 10 years.

Help with language

Besides English, the test is available in Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Fijian, Filipino, Gujarati, Hindi, Korean, Māori, Punjabi, Samoan, Thai and Tongan. People with reading difficulties can apply for extra time, or to have the test given orally. Ask your driver licensing agent.

Check your understanding

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

Question 1 of 1

The learner theory test has 35 questions. How many must you answer correctly to pass?