New Zealand is preparing to overhaul its driver’s licensing system which, according to heavy vehicle advocates, could play a key role in attracting more young people to get behind the wheel of a truck.
The proposed licensing changes apply to class one licences across New Zealand, and are being explored due to diving rates of young people earning their licence.
Much like in Australia, New Zealand workforces are suffering from a shortage of drivers – with the truck driving industry at severe risk of ageing out.
The changes proposed by government include scrapping the second practical driving test for drivers seeking to earn a full licence, the tightening of alcohol restrictions and reducing the number of demerit points required for a licence suspension.
In short, the changes will look to make a class one licence easier to get, but also easier to lose for those breaking the rules.
New Zealand’s 2025 National Road Freight Industry survey indicated the overwhelming issue facing the industry was a lack of young people – 94 per cent of respondents cited it as one of the industry’s top issues – while there was also agreement the heavy vehicle licensing system was too difficult.
Transporting New Zealand CEO Dom Kalasih says he supports the changes to class one licensing as he believes it could pave the way for more people to pursue a career in the heavy vehicle transport sector.
He has labelled acquiring a class one licence as “the essential first step for young drivers progressing onto more specialised heavy vehicle licences.”
The changes are set to be introduced in the middle of 2026, and Kalasih has also welcomed the potential for the road transport sector to be involved in the consultation prior to the changes being made.
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