The AA has welcomed the announcement that young drivers in New Zealand will soon spend at least 12 months on a learner licence.
The Government this month revealed big changes to getting a drivers licence starting in January 2027.
The changes will also mean young drivers will have the opportunity to progress sooner by completing a set number of supervised practice hours or approved professional training.
Some of the major changes include:
- The default learner licence period becoming 12 months instead of 6
- The removal of the test to gain a full licence
- Tougher consequences for driving offences while on a restricted licence
- A zero-alcohol limit unless a full licence is held
The AA said it hoped the changes would be a “positive and balanced” step forward for road safety.
“The Government wanted to make it cheaper and easier for people to get to a full licence and the removal of the full test will achieve that – and they have listened to the sector to introduce other changes which will hopefully lead to better prepared, safer young drivers as well,” said AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen.
A recent AA Research Foundation survey found around half of drivers under 25 had less than 40 hours of practice before sitting their restricted test, with nearly one in five reporting fewer than 15 hours.
“Most comparable countries have automatic progression to a full licence but require learner drivers to log a minimum number of supervised hours, complete professional training, or both,” added Dylan.
“Bringing New Zealand more into line with these proven approaches is a sensible move.”
