Fixing Errors in Your Limited Licence Documents
A wrong date. A number plate with a typo. Hours in the affidavit that do not match the draft order. Small errors in a Limited Licence application can cause big problems. Here is when and how they get fixed.
Before you sign: check everything
An affidavit is evidence. You take an oath, or affirm, that its contents are true and correct [3]. Read every page before you sign it in front of the witness.
Check that these match across the application, every affidavit, the draft order and any map:
- your full name, date of birth and licence number
- the offence and disqualification or suspension details
- vehicle details, including number plates
- days, hours and the area you need to drive in
The map must not conflict with the draft order [2].
Every affidavit is signed only in front of the person who witnesses it, and the easiest place to do that is at the court when you file. Never sign one in advance.
Never leave a conviction out
Your affidavit should cover any previous driving related convictions, not just those within the last 5 years [2]. Leaving one out is not a small error. Put it in.
After Police review
Once filed, the application is served on the Police Prosecution Service. They may not oppose it, or they may suggest changes, often tightening when, where and why you can drive [3]. If the suggestions are fair, you can change your documents and send them again to the Police for their updated view [3]. If they do oppose it, read when Police oppose a Limited Licence application.
Amended draft orders
If you file an amended draft order, it should be clearly described as amended, with the changes identified, for example in italics [2]. That way the judge can see exactly what moved.
At the hearing
The judge may ask you about your affidavit [3]. Anyone who swore an affidavit for you may also be asked to appear, unless the parties agree that is not needed [1]. The judge might also make changes to the draft order before stamping and signing it [3]. Read the sealed order before you drive. The conditions in the court order are the ones you must follow [4].
Sources
- Land Transport Act 1998, sections 104 and 105, New Zealand Legislation, https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1998/0110/latest/DLM434582.html (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Practice Note: Applications for a Limited Licence (24 May 2024), District Court of New Zealand, https://www.districtcourts.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Publications/2024/Limited-Licence-Practice-Note-FINAL.pdf (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Applying for a Limited Licence (2024 guide), Community Law, https://www.justice.govt.nz/assets/Documents/Publications/Applying-for-a-Limited-Licence-Guide-CL-2024.pdf (accessed 26 October 2026)
- Limited Licence, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, https://www.nzta.govt.nz/driver-licences/driving-offences-and-penalties/driving-offences/limited-licence (accessed 26 October 2026)
Frequently asked questions
I spotted a mistake after filing. What now?
Talk to the Police prosecutor or court registry, and file corrected documents, clearly marked as amended where it is the draft order.
Can the judge fix the draft order?
Yes. The judge might make changes before signing it.
What if I forgot an old conviction?
Your affidavit should list all previous driving related convictions. Fix it before the hearing.
For a full pre filing check, see the Limited Licence application checklist, and read do I have to go to court for a Limited Licence. Our going to court guide covers the day itself.
We prepare Limited Licence documents. From $645 + GST. Call 0800 437 005 or start at nzlimitedlicence.co.nz/apply.
Checked by Guy Hollister, Director, NZ Limited Licence, on 5 Nov 26