Changing your name on your driver licence
If you legally change your name, you don't have to replace your driver licence — but you can if you want to. You'll need to provide an original document that shows the change.
If you want to get a driver licence in your new name, you have to apply in person.
How to apply
1. Complete the form
Application for a replacement driver licence (PDF 158KB)
2. Collect your documents
You’ll need to show:
- your current NZ driver licence
- your expired NZ driver licence, as long as it didn’t expire more than 2 years ago
- your current NZ passport, or
- 2 other acceptable identity documents — they must be original and one should include a photo of you.
You’ll also need to take in your original:
- marriage or civil union certificate (if you’re changing your name because you got married)
- dissolution of marriage or civil union order or certificate of annulment (if you’re reverting back to your maiden name)
- deed poll certificate, change of name certificate, or birth certificate showing both names, or
- statutory declaration confirming your name change has been registered with Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Acceptable evidence of identity for a driver licence application
If you’ve changed your name more than once, you may need to show all of your original certificates and name change documents.
3. Go into an NZ Transport Agency licensing agent
Take your form and documents to any NZTA licensing agent.
4. Pay the fee
It costs $38.20 for a replacement photo driver licence.
What happens next
You’ll get your replacement licence right away. It will have the same expiry date as your old one — or you can choose to renew your licence at the same time (usually for another 10 years), but this costs more.
