New Zealand Consulate-General Noumea, New Caledonia
Driving in New Zealand
The Driving in New Zealand section of the New Zealand Transport Agency website provides new residents and visitors with information about driver licence requirements, and advice on driving in New Zealand.
The 100% Pure New Zealand website also provides an overview on driving in New Zealand
Licence Requirements
Visitors and new residents must now have a driver licence that is current and valid. Non-English licence holders must carry an accurate translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with them. Translations are accepted from one of the following:
- a diplomatic representative of the country that issued the licence (ie) for French licence holders, the Embassy of France in Wellington;
- the authority that issued the licence;
- a recognised translation service. A current overseas driver licence (with translation or IDP, where applicable) is valid for use in New Zealand for multiple periods of up to 12 continuous months.
Register your travel details
Help us find you in an emergency, so we can check on your well-being or send you important information. Register now
