The NZ Transport Agency is shifting its approach to the 440 commercial driver licences it previously signalled would be cancelled or revoked, opting instead to suspend the drivers while giving “low-risk” licence holders the opportunity to prove they can operate safely through a supervised re-testing process.
The change follows an investigation into fraudulent overseas documentation submitted during applications to convert foreign licences into New Zealand commercial classes.
The update was provided to industry stakeholders by NZTA’s commercial transport regulation team, led by acting head Tara Macmillan.
NZTA says affected drivers will be suspended from commercial operation immediately but may retain the ability to regain their licence status if they pass a series of agency-supervised practical tests.
Drivers assessed as presenting a lower safety risk will be offered the chance to sit NZTA-supervised practical tests for every licence class they currently hold, from Class 1 Restricted through to Class 5.
They will be required to complete the testing within two days at specified VTNZ sites, with the testing programme running over the next month.
Those who pass will have their suspensions lifted. Those who do not complete the process by 23 January will have their licences cancelled.
Because the drivers hold valid overseas licences, NZTA says the revised approach balances safety requirements with the need to maintain workforce continuity across the commercial transport sector.
“NZTA sees this as a pragmatic approach that supports the continued operation of the commercial transport industry, while not compromising public safety.”
High-risk drivers face full re-licensing process
NZTA says drivers identified as high-risk based on crash history, traffic offences, roadside inspections and other intelligence will not be eligible for the supervised re-testing pathway.
These drivers will be required to undergo the full standard driver-testing process.
Due to the elevated safety risks associated with transporting dangerous goods, all D endorsements held by the 440 affected drivers will be revoked. To regain a D endorsement, drivers will need to resit and pass an approved Dangerous Goods course before reapplying.
“We recognise the experience these drivers have on New Zealand roads and acknowledge the impact this action may have on commercial operators and drivers,” NZTA says.
“That’s why we are offering the option for low-risk drivers to re-sit and pass the relevant theory and practical tests to confirm they can drive safely.
“Through this process these drivers will have the opportunity to demonstrate that they have the required skills to safely operate a commercial vehicle and to satisfy NZTA that road safety has not been compromised by fraudulent activity. We believe this approach is necessary to manage the risk and uphold public safety.”
NZTA says it will separately investigate the alleged fraud associated with the licence applications.Where fraud is proven, affected drivers will face penalties for providing false documentation.
Industry operators with questions are encouraged to contact NZTA for further clarification.
