Frequently Asked Questions
Do you charge a cancellation fee?
No, but early warning would be appreciated.
Does the student pay for petrol?
No.
If I have an accident during a lesson, will it cost me?
No, the vehicle and the business are fully insured.
Can I use my own car for the lesson?
Yes, you can, at the discretion of the instructor (this option is not available, if you are the holder of a Learner’s licence).
Can I use the instructor’s car for my driving test?
Yes, you can at the discretion of the instructor (this must be discussed with the instructor before you book the test)
Can the pick-up and drop off location be different?
Yes, it is possible; this should be discussed with the instructor in advance before the lesson.
When can I go for my Restricted License test?
In six months after you have passed your Learner’s test.
Do you have to have a Learner’s Licence to take driving lessons?
Yes, you do and you must have your licence with you each lesson.
Can I have just one lesson or do I have to book a certain amount of lessons?
No, you are not obliged to have any amount of lessons, you can have one or as many as you like.
Is it true that if I sit my Restricted Licence test in an automatic car I can legally drive automatic cars only?
Yes it is, this condition will be printed on the reverse side of your licence, however if you sit your test in a manual car you can legally drive both manual and automatic.
Can I sit my Full Licence test in an automatic car but still have a licence to drive both automatic and manual cars?
Yes you can, it does not matter which car you use for your Full Licence test. If you pass it, you will be issued with a Full Licence and condition “automatic only” will be removed from your licence.
I’ve had my licence for years, but still can’t do parallel parking, can I have a lesson just to learn this?
Yes, you can have just one lesson to master just one particular skill.
I’m a complete beginner, how many lessons do I need?
There is no certain answer to this, it depends on many factors. Usually, we can cover the basics in 10 to 20 lessons, but in my experience, you have to spend at least 50 hours behind the wheel under supervision to gain confidence on the road. It does not have to be done with a professional instructor; a supervisor can be your friend or a relative as long as they are the holders of Full NZ Driver Licence and they have held it (or overseas equivalent) for at least 2 years. Keep in mind, that latest research suggests, that novice drivers, who gain 120 supervised driving hours before going solo are almost 40% less likely to crash, compared to novice drivers, who gain only 40-50 hours. The NZ Transport Agency and ACC recommend learner drivers get 120 hours of supervised practice before they sit their restricted driver licence test.