Licensing requirements for overseas drivers have been tightened as follows:

Overseas drivers with a non-English licence must now carry an accurate English translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) while driving. This will help police determine that an overseas licence is valid and check for any conditions that may be attached to the licence.

When a person is issued with a New Zealand driver licence their overseas licence will become invalid in New Zealand. This change means people cannot drive on two licences – there have been cases of people accumulating demerit points on two licences and so avoiding penalties.

Overseas birth certificates and driver licences will no longer be accepted as primary identification for obtaining a New Zealand licence. Applicants must now show a passport, in addition to presenting their original overseas driver licence (not an International Driving Permit). These changes will make it harder to legitimise a false identity.

The Driver Licensing Amendment Rule 2006 also includes changes to licence classes for commercial vehicles. For more information call 0800 822 422 or visit www.landtransport.govt.nz/rules/q-and-a/dl-amendment-2006-1.html