New Zealand Driving Test Routes FAQ

Answers to common questions about downloadable route guides and preparing for the new Restricted Licence practical test format.

Choose your region from the homepage, then select your local test centre. Each centre page links to its available downloadable route guides for supervised practice.

No. NZTA does not publish official route maps. Our guides are based on local instructor and candidate knowledge of the roads and testing areas used around each centre. Routes can vary, so they should be used to become familiar with the local driving environment rather than memorised as a guaranteed test path.

From 25 January 2027, hazard-perception assessment is included in the Restricted Licence practical test. Preparation should focus on observation, identifying developing hazards, making safe decisions and responding appropriately in real traffic conditions.

Use the downloaded route guide with an experienced supervising driver. Let your supervisor read the directions aloud so you can keep your attention on observation, speed, lane position, hazards and safe decision-making.

Yes. Examiners can vary routes because of traffic, roadworks, weather or operational reasons. The value of route practice is learning the roads, intersections and driving conditions around the centre, not memorising one exact sequence of turns.

Yes. The downloadable guide can be viewed on a phone or tablet, or printed for your supervising driver. For practice, we recommend the supervisor handles the directions so the learner can concentrate fully on driving.

Local practice can reduce surprises and help you become comfortable with common intersections, speed changes and traffic patterns. It does not replace learning safe driving skills or guarantee a pass, but it can make your practice more focused and useful.