Driving tests

What language can I take my driving test in?

Theory test

When you take the final learner test it is available in a number of other languages as well as English:

  • Arabic
  • Chinese (simplified and traditional)
  • Gujarati
  • Hindi
  • Korean
  • Māori
  • Punjabi
  • Samoan
  • Thai
  • Tongan.

All New Zealand’s road signs are in English, so it’s important that drivers understand the meaning of these signs otherwise they risk driving into danger.

Practical test

The practical test will be delivered in English. However, you can bring an interpreter with you who will sit in the rear of the car.

Other languages

We get requests from speakers of languages such as Spanish, Italian and Russian fairly regularly. We advise you look for a driving instructor that speaks those languages who can help you. For example, Ciao Driving School offers lessons in Italian and Auckland Driving Lessons offers lessons in Russian. However, there is not much choice when it comes to alternative languages, especially if you are not in Auckland or Wellington.

Can training courses be done in other languages

The questions in all of our courses are able to be translated to one of over 130 languages if you are using the site on a computer or tablet, including te reo Maori. Simply choose the language you’d like to view it in from the Select language menu at the top of the screen.

Darren has written over 3000 articles about driving and vehicles, plus almost 500 vehicle reviews and numerous driving courses. Connect with him on LinkedIn by clicking the name above

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