Driving in New Zealand

If you have a driver’s licence in your home country or an international driving permit (IDP), you can drive in New Zealand for a maximum of one year. After one year you’ll need to apply for a New Zealand driver’s licence.

By law you must always have your licence with you when you’re driving. You’ll only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you’re licensed to drive in your home country. The minimum legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 25 years.

If you intend to drive in New Zealand, make sure you’re familiar with our driving rules (see the “Road Code”) before you arrive. And remember – in New Zealand we drive on the LEFT side of the road.