Summarised by Centrist
The Government is proposing to remove New Zealand’s second practical driving test, currently required to move from a restricted to a full licence, in a bid to streamline the process, cut costs, and address licensing bottlenecks.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the current process is inefficient and makes New Zealand an international “outlier.”
In place of the full licence test, the Government would require a clean driving record, halve the demerit point threshold, and introduce a zero-alcohol limit for all learner and restricted drivers, regardless of age.
“Right now, the process… is time-consuming and inefficient,” Bishop said, noting the total cost to progress through the system is at least $362.50. With roughly a million adults lacking a full licence—and almost half unlicensed altogether—Bishop argued reform is long overdue.
The plan also includes reducing eyesight checks. At present, drivers over 25 may be tested three times in nine months.
Evidence, Bishop says, shows little safety benefit from repeated testing. Under the new proposal, drivers would undergo vision screening only when first applying and again at age 45. Existing requirements would remain for heavy vehicle and older drivers.
Public consultation opens April 14 via the Ministry of Transport website and closes June 9. If adopted, the changes would come into effect in July 2026.
