Lost your licence? How to tell your employer
It's an awkward conversation. Have it early anyway.
Why your employer matters
If you need a Limited Licence to drive for work, the court wants to see why. The District Court practice note says that when the hardship is about employment, an affidavit from your employer should be filed, and a letter from them will generally be regarded as not enough [1]. So your employer is not just someone you tell. They are part of the application.
What their affidavit covers
The practice note says affidavits should state facts, not assertions [1]. A good employer affidavit usually covers:
- who the business is, and who is signing for it
- your role and how long you have worked there
- what driving the job needs, and why
- your hours, or your roster if it changes
- the vehicle you would drive and who owns it
- what happens to your job, or the business, if you cannot drive
The law also lets the court consider undue hardship to someone other than you, including an employer [2]. If the business would struggle without you, that belongs in their affidavit.
They may have to appear
Every person who swears an affidavit in support must appear before the court to be examined on it, unless you and Police agree that is not needed [2]. Tell your employer that up front, so it is not a surprise.
How to tell them
- Be straight. Say you've lost your licence, for how long, and why.
- Have a plan. Tell them you're applying for a Limited Licence so you can keep doing your job.
- Be specific. What driving does your job need? Which days, which times, which vehicle?
- Ask for the right person. Usually a manager or owner who can confirm your role.
Most employers would rather keep a good worker than lose one over a suspension.
Ask only for the driving you need
The court can only allow the least driving needed to deal with the hardship [2]. Work out with your employer exactly which days, times, places and vehicles the job really needs. Asking for more than that can count against you.
Don't drive in the meantime
Even if your boss says "just keep driving", don't. Driving while suspended or disqualified is a criminal offence, and a first or second offence means a disqualification of 6 months or more [2]. If you are disqualified for it, you cannot apply for a Limited Licence for that disqualification [2].
Sources
- Practice Note: Applications for a Limited Licence, District Court of New Zealand, https://www.districtcourts.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Publications/2024/Limited-Licence-Practice-Note-FINAL.pdf (accessed 21 October 2026)
- Land Transport Act 1998, sections 32, 82A, 90, 91, 103, 104 and 105, New Zealand Legislation, https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1998/0110/latest/whole.html (accessed 21 October 2026)
Frequently asked questions
Can my employer just write a letter?
The practice note says an employer letter will generally be regarded as insufficient. An affidavit sworn by your employer is what the court expects.
What if my employer won't help?
Talk to us about your situation. The court looks at the facts in the evidence, so the application has to be built around what you can actually prove.
Need help with the employer side? Call us on 0800 437 005, or start at nzlimitedlicence.co.nz/apply. Our document preparation starts from $645 + GST.
Your employer may already check your licence through TORO or Driver Check. If you drive a work vehicle, read the rules for company vehicles on a Limited Licence. Our Limited Licence for work page has more.
Checked by Guy Hollister, Director, NZ Limited Licence, on 4 Sep 26