He also said New Zealand was an outlier in requiring a second practical driving test when moving from a restricted licence to a full licence. "Removing the second practical test reduces costs and makes it easier to progress to a full licence, provided drivers demonstrate safe driving behaviour while on their restricted licence. Bishop said the shake-up was the first major change to the system since 2011, when the learner licence age was increased from 15 to 16. Encouraging safe driving: Drivers on their restricted licence will face a further six months on their restricted if they get demerits. Drivers on their restricted licence will face a further six months on their restricted if they get demerits.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 03, 2026 04:47 UTC