How long does a limited licence take in NZ?
It depends on why you lost your licence.
Demerit points: start today
If NZTA suspended you for demerit points, there's no waiting period. You can start your application the day you get your notice.
After your paperwork is done, it goes to Police and then to the court. Most of the waiting is on them, not you.
Drink driving or another court disqualification: 28 days first
For drink driving, dangerous or careless driving causing injury, and some other offences, the law says the court can't grant a limited licence until at least 28 days after your disqualification starts.
That doesn't mean sitting on your hands. Get your documents ready during those 28 days, and you're not starting from scratch on day 29.
What slows it down
- mistakes in the paperwork
- leaving things out of your history
- waiting to get your employer on board
Getting the paperwork right the first time is the part we do.
Want your likely date?
Every case is different. Call us on 0800 437 005 and we'll give you a realistic timeline, or start now at nzlimitedlicence.co.nz/apply.
Sources
- Land Transport Act 1998, sections 32, 103, 104 and 105, New Zealand Legislation, https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1998/110/en/latest/ (accessed 29 September 2026)