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Module 2: Understanding your learner licence

The graduated licence journey

7 minLesson 1 of 1 Awaiting expert reviewLast reviewed: 29 September 2026

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What you will learn

Describe the three stages of a New Zealand car licence.

  • The three licence stages
  • Which tests you sit
  • Changes announced for 25 January 2027

Three stages

How it works

New Zealand uses a graduated driver licensing system. You start with a learner licence (always supervised), move to a (some solo driving with conditions), and finish with a full licence.

LLearnerRRestrictedFFull
A path showing three steps: learner licence, restricted licence, full licence.

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Changes from 25 January 2027

How it works

has announced changes that take effect on 25 January 2027. For example, there will be no full licence practical test, and the learner period for people under 25 becomes 12 months. Until that date, the current rules apply.

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Knowledge check

A few quick questions – no timer, no pressure.

Question 1 of 2Original practice question

How many questions are in the car learner licence theory test, and how many must you answer correctly?

Summary

  • Learner → restricted → full.
  • Each stage has conditions and minimum times.
  • Some rules change on 25 January 2027 – check the Licence Guide for today's rules.

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Sources Awaiting expert reviewLast checked: 29 September 2026

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