A new “clean driving record” requirement for restricted licence holders came into effect on 7 May 2026 as part of the Government’s wider changes to New Zealand’s graduated driver licensing system.
The change is designed to encourage safer driving behaviour among new and inexperienced drivers and to improve road safety across New Zealand.
Under the new rules, restricted licence holders who receive demerit points while driving on a restricted licence may have their restricted licence period extended. From 25 January 2027, six months will be added to the restricted licence period for each demerit point offence committed on or after 7 May 2026.
Drivers who successfully progress to their full licence before 25 January 2027 will not be affected by the extension.
The new requirement reinforces the importance of following road rules and complying with all restricted licence conditions. Common offences that can result in demerit points include:
- Speeding
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Driving an unlicensed or unregistered vehicle
- Breaching restricted licence conditions, such as carrying unauthorised passengers
- Driving outside permitted hours without a supervisor
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) encourages all restricted licence holders to maintain a clean driving record and work towards obtaining their full licence as soon as they are eligible.
These changes are the first to be implemented following the driver licensing reforms announced by the Government and signed into law in April 2026.
For more information about the clean driving record requirement and how demerit points may affect restricted drivers, visit the NZ Transport Agency website.
Useful links:
For more on demerit point change go to:
Restricted demerit points | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
To find out about demerit point offences go to:
