How much does a limited licence cost in NZ?

Our preparation fee is $749+GST for standard applications or $1,499+GST for full representation. Court filing fees ($171 for disqualifications, $269+$67 for demerit suspensions) and the NZTA reinstatement fee ($48.70) are payable separately.

How long does it take to get a limited licence?

Once you provide your information, documents are prepared in 1–2 business days. The court hearing is typically scheduled 1–2 weeks after filing. For court disqualifications, there is a mandatory 28-day stand-down before you can apply.

Can I get a limited licence for drink driving?

It depends on your specific circumstances. Section 65 of the Land Transport Act bars some drink driving offenders, particularly repeat offenders and those with high readings triggering alcohol interlock sentences. Many first-time offenders can still apply.

Do I need a lawyer for a limited licence application?

You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but the quality of drafting directly affects the outcome. A poorly prepared application can be declined. Our fixed-fee service means a qualified lawyer reviews every application.

How to Get a Limited Licence in NZ: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Have you been disqualified from driving in New Zealand and need to get back on the road for work or personal reasons? A limited licence could be your solution -- but it's not automatic. In this guide, we break down the legal steps, eligibility criteria, and what you'll need to convince the court.

What Is a Limited Licence?

A limited licence is a court-approved driving licence that allows a disqualified or suspended driver to drive under tightly controlled conditions. It exists to alleviate extreme hardship to the driver or undue hardship to others -- typically an employer or dependent.

Limited licences are granted under section 105 of the Land Transport Act 1998 (LTA). They are not a right and only apply in specific situations. See our detailed guide on the hardship test for what the court considers.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible if:

You've been disqualified under the Land Transport Act or had your licence suspended due to demerit points.
You can prove extreme hardship (e.g. losing your job) or undue hardship to someone else (e.g. your child can't get to medical treatment).

However, you cannot apply if you were disqualified for:

Certain drink driving repeat offences under section 65.
Reckless or dangerous driving causing injury or death (sections 35, 36, 38, 39 LTA).
Driving while already disqualified (section 32(1)).
Offences triggering an alcohol interlock sentence.

When Can You Apply?

In some cases, you must wait 28 days after disqualification before the court can grant the order (section 104), but you can and should file your application during this time. Doing so minimises your time off the road. Demerit point suspensions have no stand-down — you can apply immediately.

Timeline Example (For Alcohol-Related Offence)

Day 0 -- Disqualification begins
Days 1--7 -- Prepare affidavits and draft order; seek legal advice if needed
Days 8--14 -- File application in District Court and serve Police
Day 28 -- Earliest date court may grant the order
Days 29--35 -- Court hearing (if necessary); judge grants order
Day 36+ -- Apply to Waka Kotahi (NZTA) for limited licence

What the Court Considers

To succeed, you need to show:

The disqualification causes extreme or undue hardship.
Your proposed driving is limited to what's absolutely necessary.
Granting the licence is not contrary to public safety.

The court will impose strict conditions, including:

Approved days, times, and routes for driving.
Vehicle type and purpose of driving (e.g. commuting to work).
Any supporting documents, including an affidavit from your employer. Letters alone may carry limited weight.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Prepare supporting affidavits and documents.
File your application at the relevant District Court.
Serve notice to NZ Police.
Attend your court hearing.
If approved, take your court order to Waka Kotahi to be issued a limited licence.

Final Thoughts

With the right preparation and legal advice, you can maximise your chances of success. Avoid the most common application mistakes and see our pricing for full cost transparency. Take our free eligibility quiz to find out if you qualify, or learn more about how our process works.