Destinations / New Zealand
Driving in New Zealand as a visitor
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. New Zealand accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What New Zealand expects
| Permit needed | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1949 Geneva |
| Valid for | 1 year |
| Drives on the | Left |
| Emergency number | 111 |
| Top speed limit | 100 km/h open roads (110 on some expressways) |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Not required by law. Worth having if your licence is not printed in Latin script. |
| Booklet format they know | 1949 Geneva |
| Minimum age | 16. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in NZD. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Right of way | Give way rules at intersections are strict. |
|---|---|
| Roads | Many rural roads are narrow and winding. |
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit; zero under 20. |
On the road in New Zealand
At the pump
Fuel is self-service and sold by the litre, with petrol grades 91, 95 and 98 plus diesel; you must use at least the octane your car requires, and cards are accepted everywhere.
After a crash
Call 111 for injuries; you must stop and exchange details, and report to police within 60 hours (immediately if anyone is hurt) - driving on without authority can void your rental insurance.
Sources: newzealand.com · nzta.govt.nz · police.govt.nz · aa.co.nz
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in New Zealand?
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. New Zealand accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Which IDP format does New Zealand accept?
New Zealand recognises the 1949 Geneva format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in New Zealand ask for one?
An accurate English translation or IDP is expected for non-English licences.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.