How do I get my Class 5 Truck Licence?
A Class 5 truck licence is the highest heavy vehicle licence in New Zealand, letting you drive the largest truck-and-trailer combinations. This guide explains the steps, costs, and requirements to help you move from your learner licence to a full Class 5.
What is a Class 5 Licence?
A Class 5 licence qualifies you to operate the biggest vehicles on New Zealand roads. It covers truck-and-trailer units, tractor units with semi-trailers, and heavy combination vehicles with a gross combination weight of more than 25,000kg. Holding a Class 5 licence is essential for professional drivers in long-haul freight, bulk transport, and heavy haulage industries.
How to Get a Class 5 Learner Licence
To apply for your Class 5 learner licence (5L), you’ll need to:
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Hold a full Class 4 licence for at least 6 months (or 3 months if you’re 25 or older).
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Fill out a DL1 form at a driver licensing agent (VTNZ or AA).
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Provide proof of identity, photo, and signature.
- Pass an eyesight check (and medical certificate if required).
- Pay the application fee $77.50.
- Sit and pass the Class 5 theory test (unless you already hold a Class 3 licence, in which case no new theory test is required).
Moving to a Full Class 5 Licence
Once you have your learner licence, you can progress to your full Class 5 licence. To do so, you must either:
- Hold your Class 5 learner licence for at least 6 months, or
- Complete an NZTA-approved accelerated course (like the training provided by Safety ’n Action) to fast-track the process.
To get your full Class 5 licence, you will:
- Apply again at a licensing agent.
- Provide identification, a current medical certificate (if required), and pass another eyesight check.
- Pass a practical driving test in a Class 5 vehicle, or provide your course completion certificate.
The practical test takes around 30 minutes and includes at least 20 minutes of on-road driving.
