Anyone moving to New Zealand almost always asks the same question: how long can I keep driving on my overseas licence?
The legal basis
Visitors and new residents can generally drive on a current overseas licence (or International Driving Permit) for up to 12 months from their latest arrival date in New Zealand.
When does the clock actually start?
The 12-month period runs from your most recent date of arrival, not from when you first decide to settle — each new entry into the country can reset this period for visitors, though this works differently once you become a resident.
Exceptions to the rule
- Certain overseas licences can be converted directly to a NZ licence without a practical test, depending on the issuing country
- Some visa categories carry their own specific driving conditions
Once the 12 months are up, you must hold a New Zealand driver licence to continue driving legally.
