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 did not 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 birth surname)
• 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.

NZTA licensing agents

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.