Drink Driving and a Work Licence: The Documents
A drink driving conviction usually comes with a disqualification. For some people a Limited Licence is possible. For others it is not. Before you gather a single document, check which group you are in.
First, can you apply?
You cannot apply if you are subject to an alcohol interlock sentence, or if you are indefinitely disqualified for repeat drink or drug driving [1]. A repeat of certain serious offences within 5 years, including drink driving, also rules you out [1]. Read your court order closely.
The 28-day stand-down
After a drink driving disqualification, the court cannot authorise a Limited Licence until 28 days after the disqualification takes effect [1]. You can file during that time [2][3], but you still cannot drive until the order is made and the licence issued [2].
Where to file
File at the court where you were disqualified [2].
The documents
- The court order or record showing your disqualification and when it started.
- Your affidavit, setting out the facts of your hardship. Be honest about the offence and disclose all previous driving related convictions [3].
- An employer affidavit if your hardship is about work. A letter is generally not enough [3].
- Supporting evidence, such as rosters, pay records and care arrangements.
- A draft order setting out the purpose, vehicle, hours and routes you need [1].
Do not sign your affidavit before you get to court. Sign it only in front of the person who witnesses it, and the easiest place to do that is at the court when you arrive. Once it is signed, not a single word can change unless the change is also signed and witnessed.
Serving the Police
After filing, you serve a copy of your application on the nearest Police Prosecution Service yourself.
Expect public safety questions
The court must be satisfied the order is not contrary to public safety [1]. After a drink driving conviction, it helps to show the judge you take that seriously, with facts rather than promises.
Sources
- Land Transport Act 1998, sections 32, 90, 95, 103, 104 and 105, New Zealand Legislation, https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1998/0110/latest/DLM434582.html (accessed 13 October 2026)
- Get a Limited Licence, New Zealand Ministry of Justice, https://www.justice.govt.nz/courts/criminal/get-a-limited-licence/ (accessed 13 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 13 October 2026)
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply before the 28 days are up?
You can file, but the order cannot take effect before the stand-down ends.
What about an alcohol interlock?
If you are subject to an alcohol interlock sentence, you cannot apply for a Limited Licence.
Do I have to go to court?
Yes. You attend the hearing and may be asked questions about your affidavit.
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 23 October 2026