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New Zealand · Theory test

Class 2 licence: what it covers and how to get one in NZ

It’s the medium rigid vehicle licence, and the first of the four heavy vehicle classes. You can apply for a class 2 learner licence once you’ve held a full class 1 (car) licence for 6 months, whatever your age. A full class 2 is then the licence you need before class 3 or class 4.

  • 6 monthsOn a full class 1, at any age
  • 6,001 kgWhere class 2’s rigid weight range starts
  • 12,000 kgHeaviest combination on class 2
Open the licence class listFree practice test

Updated November 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

What is a class 2 licence in NZ?

A full class 2 licence covers:

  • A rigid vehicle with a gross laden weight (GLW) of 6,001 to 18,000 kg
  • A combination vehicle, other than a tractor and trailer, with a gross combined weight of 12,000 kg or less
  • A rigid vehicle (not a tractor) towing a light trailer, if the rigid vehicle’s GLW is 18,000 kg or less
  • A rigid vehicle with two axles or less and a GLW over 18,000 kg
  • A tractor of 6,001 to 18,000 kg GLW, at 40 km/h or less
  • A zero-emission or electric bus in a public transport service, with a GLW of 18,000 to 22,000 kg
  • Any vehicle that class 1 covers

A vehicle’s weights are on its certificate of loading. The licence classes page explains how to read them.

See all the licence classes →See what class 1 covers →

How to get a class 2 licence

The steps go like this:

  1. Hold a full class 1 licence for 6 months. Unlike the later classes, the wait is the same under 25 and at 25 or over.
  2. Apply for a class 2 learner licence at a driver licensing agent, and pass the theory test.
  3. Learn with a supervisor for at least 6 months, then pass the practical test. An approved class 2 course is the other way to a full licence.
See how the theory test works →Read about the practical test →See the class 2 fees →

After a full class 2 licence

It opens two learner licences: class 3, for medium combination vehicles, and class 4, for heavy rigid vehicles. Class 5 comes after class 4.

See the class 3 licence →See the class 4 licence →
Sources: NZTA and 2 more. Checked November 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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