The road transport sector is backing proposed changes to New Zealand’s driver licensing system, saying they could help attract more young drivers and ease growing workforce shortages.
The proposed changes include scrapping the second practical driving test for new drivers seeking a full licence.
Other proposed changes include toughening up alcohol restrictions and reducing the number demerit points required before a driver can have their licence suspended.
Transporting New Zealand says the reforms would make it easier for new entrants to get on the road, at a time when the sector is grappling with an ageing workforce.
A large proportion of truck drivers are over 60, and as they retire that will lead to a driver shortage, which in turn will hurt the economy, the road freight body warns.
Chief executive Dom Kalasih says he supports any move that makes it easier for young people to get their licence.
Getting a class one licence is the “essential first step for young drivers progressing on to more specialised heavy vehicle licences”, he says
But he points out that fewer young people have been getting their licences compared with recent decades.
A 2025 National Road Freight Industry survey, conducted by Research New Zealand, revealed 94% of respondents saw workforce challenges as a top concern, with most agreeing the current heavy vehicle licensing system makes it too difficult for new entrants to get into the industry.
Kalasih says the issue is not unique to New Zealand, with other countries also facing similar shortages as older drivers retire.
However, he agrees with the Automobile Association that road safety must remain paramount.
Safety is the “number one priority” and the details of the proposed changes must be carefully examined,” he says, adding that he welcomes industry involvement in the consultation process ahead of any changes being introduced next year.
