How to Handle Driving Without a License in New Zealand

How to prevent issues in New Zealand where carrying a valid license is essential while driving

New Zealand traffic laws strictly require the possession of a valid driver's license while driving, and violating this can result in fines or legal penalties. Here are the steps to take if you find yourself without a license while traveling.

1. Retrieve Your License

• If your license is at your accommodation or nearby, it is safest to stop driving immediately and go to retrieve your license.

2. Possibility of Fines and Warnings When Driving Without a License

• If stopped by the police, you may receive a fine or warning for not carrying your license without a valid reason.

• If your license cannot be verified, your ability to drive the vehicle may be restricted.

3. Need for an International Driver's Permit or Translation

• A Korean driver's license alone is not valid in New Zealand, so you must carry an International Driver's Permit.

• If you do not have an International Driver's Permit, you need to prepare a translated version of your Korean driver's license through an official translation agency in New Zealand.

4. No Use of Electronic Copies

• In New Zealand, electronic copies or photos of your driver's license cannot be used as substitutes. You must carry the original physical license.

5. Refrain from Driving

• It is safest to avoid driving if you do not have a license.

• Use alternative transportation methods such as public transport, taxis, or bicycle rentals.

• Always carry your driver's license while traveling to prevent unnecessary issues.

What to Do If You Lose Your International Driver's Permit

1. Report the Loss to the Police

• Fill out a loss report at the local police station to use for identity verification and insurance claims.

2. Prepare Alternative Driving Documents

• You cannot drive in New Zealand with only a Korean license without an International Driver's Permit.

• Obtain a translated version of your Korean driver's license from an official translation agency recognized by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and check if it can be used with some rental car companies.

3. Contact the Embassy

• Contact the Korean embassy to inquire about temporary driving documents or alternative solutions.

• The embassy does not reissue International Driver's Permits but can provide guidance on appropriate measures for your situation.

4. Reissue of International Driver's Permit

• The International Driver's Permit can only be reissued in Korea, and it cannot be reissued locally.

• Consider having a family member or friend in Korea reissue the International Driver's Permit and send it to you by courier.

5. Use Alternative Transportation

• Safely travel using other transportation methods such as public transport, taxis, or bicycle rentals.

Summary

• Do not drive without a valid driver's license. An International Driver's Permit or translation is necessary.

• If you lose your license, report it to the local police and seek help from the embassy or an official translation agency.

• Use alternative transportation to prevent issues when driving is not feasible.

Always carry your driver's license and comply with traffic laws for safe and trouble-free driving during your trip to New Zealand.