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New Zealand · Theory test

How to book your learner licence test in NZ

To book a learner licence test in NZ, you go to a driver licensing agent, fill in the application and book a time while you’re there. The agents are the AA (the New Zealand Automobile Association) and VTNZ (Vehicle Testing New Zealand), and Drive, the learning site of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), says they include most AA offices and some VTNZ stations. You might sit the test that day or come back another day. Before 25 January 2027, the restricted and full driving tests work differently: you book and pay online with NZTA, then visit an agent to apply.

  • 2Kinds of agent: AA and VTNZ
  • Same dayWhen you might sit the learner test
  • OnlinePractical booking before 25 January 2027
Find a driver licensing agent

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

How do I book a learners test in NZ?

  1. Find a driver licensing agent near you.
  2. Fill in the DL1 application form in advance, or get a copy at the agent.
  3. Take proof of identity, such as a valid New Zealand passport.
  4. At the agent, pass the eye test, have your photo and signature taken, and pay the application fee.
  5. Book a time for your test.

These are Drive’s steps for the system before 25 January 2027. The AA’s pages differ on online booking. Its get-ready page says some AA Driver Licensing outlets let you book the test online, while its learner licence page and driver licensing FAQ say a learner test booking is made in person, though that learner licence page also links to “Book your learner licence online”. Check your outlet on the AA’s location finder before you go.

NZTA: Application form DL1 (PDF) ↗AA: Find a driver licensing outlet ↗

Booking a restricted or full licence test online

Under the system before 25 January 2027, when you’re ready for a practical test you book and pay for it online on NZTA’s booking site. You also go to a driver licensing agent, well before the test day, to fill in the application form, show ID, pass the eye test, have your photo taken and pay the application fee if you haven’t already. If your test falls on or after 25 January 2027, check NZTA’s page on the changes before you book.

NZTA: Book a practical driver licence test ↗How the restricted and full tests work →NZTA: Changes to getting a car licence ↗

What an AA or VTNZ agent does

A driver licensing agent handles licences for the public on NZTA’s behalf. The AA says there are only two kinds in New Zealand, AA and VTNZ agents, and that you go in person so the agent can check your identity, take your photo and signature and take your payment.

At an AA licensing agent you can apply for or renew a licence, pay licensing fees, book every kind of licence test and sit the learner licence test.

On the day, and if you can’t make it

For the learner test, arrive at least 10 minutes early and tell the staff you’ve come for the test. If you’re late, you might have to rebook for another day.

If you can’t make your booking, cancel it. The AA says even an hour’s notice lets someone else take the slot.

The 35 questions and the pass mark →
Sources: Drive · AA · NZTA and 4 more. Checked October 2026.

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

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