Foreign driving licences in New Zealand (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Visitors may drive on a current, valid overseas licence, with an English translation or international driving permit if it is not in English. The limit is 18 months from last arrival for car licences (12 months from 1 November 2026) and 12 months for motorcycle or truck licences.

RuleWhat applies
Licence from another EU/EEA state valid for a visitorUsing a foreign driving licenceYes [1]
EU/EEA licence after becoming a residentUsing a foreign driving licenceThe time limit runs from the day of last arrival in New Zealand: car licences 18 months, reducing to 12 months from 1 November 2026; motorcycle or truck licences 12 months. Anyone planning to stay should get a New Zealand driver licence; an overseas licence that is current or expired less than 12 months ago can be converted. [1]
Licence from outside the EU/EEA for a visitorUsing a foreign driving licenceA current and valid overseas licence or driver permit lets a driver use New Zealand roads if the driver has not been disqualified or suspended in New Zealand and has not been given a New Zealand licence since last entering. The overseas licence must be carried. If it is not in English, an accurate English translation or an international driving permit is also needed (the permit may be current or expired up to 6 months, car licences only). Time limit from the day of last arrival: car licences 18 months, reducing to 12 months from 1 November 2026; motorcycle or truck licences 12 months. A full overseas car licence covers vehicles up to 6,000 kg gross laden weight. [1]
Licence from outside the EU/EEA after becoming a residentUsing a foreign driving licenceThe time limit runs from the day of last arrival in New Zealand: car licences 18 months, reducing to 12 months from 1 November 2026; motorcycle or truck licences 12 months. Anyone planning to stay should get a New Zealand driver licence; an overseas licence that is current or expired less than 12 months ago can be converted. [1]
International Driving Permit needed with an EU/EEA licenceUsing a foreign driving licence⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The NZ Transport Agency page makes no distinction between EU and other overseas licences. Pending change: from 1 November 2026 the car-licence time limit is reduced from 18 months to 12 months from the day of last arrival. Page read in an Internet Archive snapshot of 22 October 2026 because the agency site blocks automated access.
  • The agency requires an English translation or an international driving permit when the licence is not in English. A yes or no value for an international driving permit cannot be given from this.

Sources

  1. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi: Driving on New Zealand roads (Internet Archive snapshot of 22 October 2026) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.