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Restricted licence demerit points and fines

The Government has proposed changes to the graduated driver licensing system (GDLS). 

Any changes will not happen until July 2026. Until then, you still need to follow the current process to get your learner, restricted or full licence. 

The proposed changes are open for consultation on the Ministry of Transport website. 

Summary of proposed improvements to New Zealand's GDLS - Ministry of Transport website(external link)
Consultation for proposed improvements to the GDLS - Ministry of Transport website(external link)

This page focuses on things you need to know to help you avoid getting demerit points and fines while on a restricted licence.

Demerit points and fines

Here’s what you need to know:

  • They’re issued if you commit a driving offence.
  • The amount you receive depends on how serious the offence was.
  • You could be disqualified from driving, have your car impounded or even be imprisoned if you get too many demerit points.
  • If you reach 100 demerit points within a two-year period, you’ll automatically lose your licence.
  • If you lose your licence, you’ll have to wait even longer before you can apply for your full licence.

Restricted licence offences

Offence Demerit points Fine
Driving after hours 35 $100
Carrying passengers 35 $100
Automatic vehicle condition 35 $100

Alcohol offences

Offence Demerit points Fine
Under 20 (you can’t drink any alcohol and drive)
Driving with:
  • blood alcohol up to 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres, or
  • breath alcohol up to 150 micrograms per litre
 50 $200
Driving with:
  • blood alcohol over 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres, or
  • breath alcohol over 150 micrograms per litre
 50 No set fines, but:
  • your vehicle may be impounded,
  • you may be given a 28 day suspension, and
  • you will face criminal charges.
20 and over
Driving with:
  • breath alcohol between 250 and 400 micrograms per litre, or
  • blood alcohol between 50 and 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres
 50 $200
Driving with blood alcohol between 50 and 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres AND refusing an evidential breath test 50 $700
Driving with:
  • breath alcohol over 400 micrograms per litre, or
  • blood alcohol over 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres
 No demerits or set fines, but:
  • your vehicle may be impounded,
  • you may be given a 28 day suspension, and
  • you will face criminal charges.

Other demerit points and fines

There are other demerit points and fines that apply to all drivers, not just restricted drivers.

Find out more about demerit points and fines(external link)

See a list of demerit point offences

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