Can I get a limited licence after drink driving?
For most people, yes. But not straight away, and not everyone.
The 28-day wait
After a drink driving disqualification, the court can't grant you a limited licence until at least 28 days after the disqualification starts. Use that time to get your application ready.
When the answer is no
You can't get a limited licence if you:
- are on an alcohol interlock sentence
- have two or more serious driving offences from separate incidents in the last 5 years
- were caught driving while disqualified or suspended
Interlock and zero alcohol licences are different
An alcohol interlock licence or a zero alcohol licence is not the same as a limited licence. If the court has put you on one of those, a limited licence isn't the path.
Not sure where you stand?
Drink driving cases are where people get caught out, because every history is different.
Give us a call on 0800 437 005 and we'll tell you straight, or start 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)