David Farrar: Sensible driver licence changes

Chris Bishop announced some significant and sensible changes to the driver licence system. They are:

• You only need to pass a practical test for your restricted licence, not for a second time a few months later when you get a full

• The learner period for under 25s goes from 6 to 12 months

• The restricted period for under 25s is 12 months

• The cost of a full licence drops by $80

• Getting demerits on a restricted licence will extend the restricted period by six months

• A zero alcohol limit regardless of age for all learner and restricted licence holders

These look like they should lead to safer learner drivers, but also fewer costs and hurdles.

David Farrar runs Curia Market Research, a specialist opinion polling and research agency, and the popular Kiwiblog where this article was sourced. He previously worked in the Parliament for eight years, serving two National Party Prime Ministers and three Opposition Leaders