What is a limited licence?
Who can apply for a limited licence?
How do I apply for a limited licence?
What is a limited licence?
If you’ve been disqualified or suspended from driving, you can apply for a limited licence which allows you to drive in limited situations, times, or areas. A limited licence might be granted if your disqualification or suspension would cause extreme or undue hardship to you or another person. For example if you have a business as an owner/driver, or if you have a disabled relative who is unable to go to hospital appointments without you to drive them.
Who can apply for a limited licence?
You can apply for a limited licence if:
- you have been disqualified by court order for reasons other than repeat alcohol/drug offences or driving while disqualified
- your licence has been suspended due to the total number of demerit points you've accummulated
There are a number of situations in which your application may be declined. These include:
- You have a 28-day licence suspension for excess speed or alcohol
- Your licence was suspended or revoked on medical grounds
- You are indefinitely disqualified because of repeat alcohol or drug driving offences
- You are disqualified for driving while already disqualified or suspended
More information about situations in which your application for a limited licence may be declined, is on the NZTA factsheet, Limited Licences
How do I apply for a limited licence?
There are two steps to applying for a limited licence:
1. Apply for a court order authorising you to obtain a limited licence
It’s a good idea to get a lawyer to help you with getting the required documents ready and present them to court. Some lawyers specialise in limited licence applications, otherwise you could get help from your local Community Law Centre. Your local CAB can also help you find a lawyer.
You will need to make a written application saying why you need a limited licence, which particular vehicle you want to drive, and where and when you wish to drive. You’ll also need to swear an affidavit (a clearly set out document which is sworn on the Bible or affirmed on oath, which can be used as evidence in court), and may need to obtain affidavits from other people as well explaining why you need a limited licence. The people making these affidavits may need to appear in court as well.
You will be charged a filing fee of around $150 if you were disqualified by the Court. If your licence was suspended due to accumulated demerit points you won’t be charged a filing fee. If the court order is granted, you can proceed to the next step.
2. Apply for a limited licence at any NZTA driver licensing agent
You will need to:
- complete a DL15 application form,
- pay the limited licence application fee (around $40), and
- provide some proof of your identity and address
If NZTA approves your application, they will issue you with a temporary limited licence to use while your photographic limited licence is processed and posted to you. You will need to have both the limited licence and the court order with you whenever you drive.
If you receive a further disqualification while you hold a limited licence, the limited licence will be revoked.
The application for a limited licence is a complex procedure. You can download 
Applying for a Limited Licence from the Community Law website. This guide explains the procedure and includes sample affidavits.