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By Easy Licence TeamPublished on July 9, 2024

How to Get a Work Licence/Limited Licence in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide

In New Zealand, if you have had your driver’s licence suspended or disqualified, you might still be eligible to obtain a limited licence, often referred to as a work licence.

This licence allows you to drive for essential purposes, such as getting to and from work or carrying out your job duties. Here is a detailed guide on how to obtain a work licence or limited licence in New Zealand, covering all the necessary steps.

Understanding a Limited Licence

A limited licence allows individuals with a suspended or disqualified driver’s licence to drive under specific conditions. This type of licence is typically granted for:

  • Employment purposes (to get to and from work).
  • Educational or vocational training.
  • Health-related travel (e.g., medical appointments).

For more information on limited licences, visit the NZTA Limited Licence page.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a limited licence, you must:

  1. Have a Current Suspension or Disqualification: Your full or restricted licence must be suspended or disqualified.
  2. Demonstrate Hardship: You must prove that the loss of your licence causes extreme hardship to yourself or undue hardship to others (e.g., your employer or family).
  3. Not Be Disqualified for Serious Offences: Certain serious offences (e.g., causing death by driving) may disqualify you from obtaining a limited licence.

Steps to Apply for a Limited Licence

1. Understand the Legal Requirements

Before applying, familiarize yourself with the legal requirements and limitations of a limited licence. This includes the specific conditions under which you are allowed to drive (e.g., routes, times, and purposes).

2. Gather Required Documents

You will need the following documents:

Court Order

  • Description: This is a legal document showing the court’s decision on your suspension or disqualification.
  • Details: It specifies the terms of your suspension and any legal grounds that allow you to apply for a limited licence.
  • How to Obtain: This document is issued by the court after you file an application and attend a hearing.

Affidavit

  • Description: A written statement that details the hardship you face due to the suspension or disqualification.
  • Details: The affidavit should include:
    • Your personal circumstances and why you need a limited licence.
    • The impact of losing your licence on your employment, education, or health.
    • Any other relevant information that supports your application.
  • How to Prepare: You can prepare the affidavit yourself, but it is advisable to seek assistance from a lawyer to ensure it is legally sound.

Employer’s Letter

  • Description: A letter from your employer outlining your need to drive for work purposes.
  • Details: The letter should include:
    • Confirmation of your employment status.
    • Details of your job role and why driving is essential.
    • The potential impact on your job if you cannot drive.
  • How to Obtain: Request this letter from your employer, ensuring it is signed and on official company letterhead.

Supporting Documents

  • Description: Additional documents that support your application.
  • Details: These may include:
    • Medical certificates if you need the licence for health-related travel.
    • Evidence of educational or vocational training requirements.
  • How to Obtain: Gather these from relevant authorities or professionals, such as your doctor or educational institution.

3. Consult a Lawyer

It is advisable to consult a lawyer who specializes in traffic law. A lawyer can help you prepare your application, ensure all legal requirements are met, and represent you in court if necessary. We recommend using LawyerHelp for professional assistance. The lawyer's fee is around $920.

4. File an Application with the Court

Submit your application for a limited licence to the local District Court. This includes your affidavit, supporting documents, and the court order. Your lawyer will assist you in this process.

5. Attend the Court Hearing

You will need to attend a court hearing where a judge will review your application. During the hearing, you or your lawyer will present your case, explaining the hardship caused by the licence suspension or disqualification.

6. Obtain the Limited Licence Order

If the judge approves your application, you will receive a Limited Licence Order. This document outlines the conditions under which you are allowed to drive (e.g., specific times, routes, and purposes).

7. Apply for the Limited Licence at the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA)

With the Limited Licence Order from the court, you can now apply for the actual limited licence at the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA). You will need to:

  • Complete the application form. You can find the form here.
  • Pay the required fee of $48.70.
  • Submit the court order and other relevant documents.

8. Comply with the Licence Conditions

Once you receive your limited licence, it is crucial to strictly adhere to the conditions specified in the licence. Failure to comply can result in further legal consequences, including the possibility of losing the limited licence.

Reasons for Decline

Your limited licence application might be declined for several reasons, including:

  • Licence suspended under a driver licence stop order (DLSO).
  • Suspension or revocation on medical grounds.
  • Serving a 28-day licence suspension for excess speed or alcohol.
  • Indefinite disqualification for repeat alcohol and/or drug driving offences.
  • Disqualified for serious offences causing death or injury.

Costs and Processing Times

The cost of obtaining a limited licence includes court fees, lawyer fees, and NZTA application fees. Court fees and lawyer fees can vary, so it’s best to get a quote from your lawyer. The NZTA fee for a limited licence application is $48.70. The entire process can take several weeks, depending on court schedules and the complexity of your case.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work licence or limited licence in New Zealand requires a clear understanding of the legal process, eligibility criteria, and necessary documentation. By following the steps outlined in this guide and consulting the NZTA guidelines, you can navigate the application process more effectively and increase your chances of obtaining a limited licence. Always consider consulting a traffic lawyer to help with your application and represent you in court. This will ensure that you meet all legal requirements and present a strong case to the judge.

For more detailed information, visit the NZTA Limited Licence page and consult with LawyerHelp.