Vehicle registration, licensing and road user charges
Registration versus licensing
This domain tests the register, plates, licence labels, change of ownership, on-hold status and RUC. Registration is the vehicle's entry on the Motor Vehicle Register; licensing is the paid right to use it on the road for a period. A vehicle can be registered but unlicensed, and it must not be driven on a road while its licence is expired unless an exemption applies. Registration plates and licence labels must match the vehicle and be displayed as required.
Core rules
- Notify NZTA of a change of ownership; the seller and buyer have separate obligations. Keep the vehicle's address and ownership details current.
- A vehicle not being used on the road may be put on hold, but it must not be used while on hold without first licensing it.
- RUC is a distance-based charge for vehicles that do not pay fuel excise at the pump, such as diesel and heavy vehicles; light electric vehicles are also within the RUC system. Buy the correct RUC licence before travel and display it or use the required electronic system.
- RUC rates depend on vehicle type, weight and configuration; underpaying or using an incorrect licence can create an offence.
Worked example
A buyer purchases a diesel ute whose registration is on hold. Before driving it on the road, the buyer must transfer ownership, license the vehicle and buy a RUC licence for the correct weight and distance. Driving home on the seller's old label, or with no RUC, is not permitted even though the vehicle is registered.
Traps
Treating registration as permission to drive; forgetting RUC on a diesel vehicle; using a petrol RUC rate for a heavy diesel; missing change-of-ownership notification; assuming a WoF label also proves licensing or RUC compliance.