A driver licence is crucial in the trades. Your boss might ask you to pick up supplies for a job, or you may need to travel between different work sites during the day.
If you don’t have your licence yet, it’s the number one thing you can do while you’re training to help you get a job later. When you’re just starting out, a restricted licence is fine for many jobs. If you already have your restricted licence, getting your full licence will make you even more valuable to an employer.
Remember, your MPTT navigator is there to help you get ready for working life – and that includes support to get your licence. They’ll be able to give you advice and point you in the right direction for your situation. Other support may also be available to some trainees, including free driving lessons and financial help to get your licence. Get in touch with your navigator to see how they can help.
How to get your learner licence
- Start by learning the road rules. First, grab a copy of the Road Code – ask your friends and whānau if they have one you could borrow, check with your local library, or get a new copy.
- Reading the Road Code is a good start, but you’ll need do practice tests to help you nail the real thing. You can find tests online, or check out drive.govt.nz to find out how much of the Road Code you know.
- There are apps to help you practice your theory test. Check out NZ Driving Theory Test, which costs $6 and lets you practice tests that are just like the real thing.
How to get your restricted or full licence
- Get as much practice as you can and make sure you’ve learned all the essential driving skills.
- While you’re learning to drive, offer to take someone with a full licence to places they need to go – like driving your mum to the supermarket. The more time you spend behind the wheel, the faster your skills and confidence will grow.
- Let’s Get Legal NZ is New Zealand’s only restricted and full driving licence app. It will show you what you need to know to pass the test, so you’ll understand what the testing officer will be looking for.
- Talk to your MPTT navigator to see how they can help.
Owning a car
- Once you have your restricted licence, you can drive a car on your own.
- If you need help financing your first car to help you travel to work, you might be able to get an interest-free loan through Ngā Tangata Microfinance Trust.
- Already have your own car? If possible, carpool to work with someone else. You’ll save money on petrol and have someone to talk to on your way to work – and it’s better for the environment as well.
Need help getting your driver licence? Ask your MPTT navigator for advice.