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I have my restricted license, and I was wondering what would happen if i was carrying my sister in the car without a fully-licensed driver? Like, fines, demrits, etc?
The AA strongly recommends that you do not carry your sister or anyone else while on your Restricted licence, unless accompanied by a supervisor who has held their Full licence for 2 years.
Not only will you be liable for a $100 fine and 35 demerit points, but you also risk invalidating your insurance which means you won’t be covered for damage to your or any other car or property in the event of an accident.
The Restricted licence conditions aren't there to make life difficult for you, but to protect you as the first 6-12 months driving solo are the most dangerous of your driving career - see http://www.safeteendriver.co.nz/ for more information.
The only relatives you may be allowed to carry are relatives who live with you and who are on a social security benefit (domestic purposes, widow's, invalid's, unemployment or sickness), or someone you look after as their primary caregiver. You can learn more about Restricted licences here.
To be on the safe side, the AA recommends that you sit your Full licence as soon as you can. Note that the age for sitting your Full licence has risen from 17 to 18 (or 17½ if you complete an approved course like the Defensive Driving Course).
Thanks for that, i understand the whole thing a lot better now.
What's this about the age changing? I don't understand why it's changed!
Many people, myself included, have gotten our learners and restricted licenses on the days we could, and now i'll have to wait an extra 4 or 5 months just to get something i have worked hard for, and waited for the now incorrect time period!
It seems like a punishment for me being proactive and going out and getting my license, when so many people, who would have been interviewed to see if the law should change, haven't, and therefore shouldn't have a say in this law change!
The increase in the licensing age was proposed a few years ago and has been widely publicised and consulted in various public forums where everyone has had the opportunity to comment. Motorists groups like the AA have also been closely involved in the discussions and sought feedback from our Members. Raising the age had widespread public support even though evidence shows experience, not age, is the most important thing for improving the safety of novice drivers. For more information, see the AA's young driver policies.
However, because you are already part way through the system, you may be eligible for an exemption which will allow contnuation of the process under the old system. Contact the NZTA Driver Licensing help line 0800 822 422 or go on-line at http://www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/index.html/ for more information.
In other words, if you have children of your own and on a restricted licence, that is acceptable, especially if you're a solo parent. Leaving young children at home alone, even for short periods can be a dangerous thing
Hi, i am 16 and have my restricted license. i have a 14 year old sister who lives with my parents and I. Am i allowed to drive her from Torbay to Northcross for sport practice? Would i need permission to do so? And if this is not allowed what would be the fine for doing so? Thank you, i am just trying to find out all the details.
Refer to the answer posted on 22nd August by M Stockdale.