New Zealand

🚗 Do tourists need a license to drive a car in New Zealand?

Yes, tourists need a valid driver's license to drive a car in New Zealand.

  • A full and valid driver's license issued in English.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in English.
  • A driver's license with an official translation issued by a translation service or a diplomatic representative office.
  • A driver's license accompanied by an approved translation service for a language other than English.

🚓 Driver rules in New Zealand

  • Speed Limitations: The general speed limits in New Zealand are 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on open roads, and 110 km/h on some selected expressways.
  • Mobile Phones Use: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in New Zealand. This includes talking, texting, browsing the internet, or using any other functions of a mobile phone.
  • Drunk Driving: The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 years and over is 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood (0.05%). For drivers under 20 years of age, the limit is zero.
  • Insurance: Car insurance is not mandatory in New Zealand, but it is highly recommended to have at least third-party insurance coverage. This will protect you from liability in case of an accident.
  • Age Limitations: The legal driving age in New Zealand for a car or motorcycle is 16 years old. However, a learner's license must be obtained before driving unsupervised, and certain conditions apply to drivers under 18 years old.