Understanding the New Zealand Road Code

A course to help speakers of English as an additional language to gain their learner's licence and drive safely in New Zealand.

Learn about New Zealand’s road rules
Study for the Learner Driver Theory Test
For people with English as a Second Language

Join our ESOL Road Code course

English is not your first language, and do you need help gaining your drivers licence?
English Language Partners can help!

The ESOL Road Code course prepares English learners to take their learner driver theory test, and to understand the road rules so they can drive safely in New Zealand.

Topics include: road signs, navigating roundabouts, intersections and pedestrian crossings, changing lanes, parking, following directions and responding in an emergency.

The programme handbook provides lesson maps outlining the topic, learning outcomes, suggested resources, lesson ideas and follow up tasks. Lesson content comes from the official New Zealand Road Code, Driving Test EZY book and DVD, and a variety of online resources and practice tests.

This programme is delivered intensively over 4 - 10 weeks (depending on your starting level). We have in-class and online options available.

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FAQs

Can I learn English online with English Language Partners?

You can learn online if:

  • you live in New Zealand
  • are a resident or citizen of New Zealand
  • speak English as a second language
  • are 16 years or older and not attending school
  • we have a course that meets your needs

We will talk to you about the courses available.

You cannot learn online if you are on a temporary visa such as a:

  • Working holiday visa
  • Visitor/tourist visa
  • Student visa

How long are courses?

Our courses vary in length. It depends on the course. Many are 8 weeks, others can vary between 2 and 18 weeks long.

How much does it cost?

Our online courses are free to residents and citizens.

Can I study after work?

Yes. We have courses for people who work during the day and want to study in the evening.

What will I learn?

You will learn the English you need to live independently in New Zealand. Our courses help people with daily life, finding work, and future study. We will help you communicate in Kiwi English. You can also learn about Kiwi culture.

Can I study for the IELTS test?

Yes. In some centres. We sometimes offer online IELTS classes too.

What level are classes?

All levels. Courses are from beginner to advanced levels. We assess your level before placing you in a course. If a course at your level is not immediately available, we will place you on a class waitlist.

Can I study grammar?

Yes. Some courses have a specific grammar focus. Other courses include grammar as part of the course content.

How many hours each week are courses?

Most of our courses are part-time. Some are two hours each week, other courses are longer – up to 10 hours. You can join more than one class.

My computer system isn’t very good – can I join?

You need a reliable internet connection, a camera and a microphone.

You can join the "ESOL Road Code" course if you:

  • live in New Zealand
  • are a New Zealand resident visa holder or citizen
  • speak English as an additional language
  • are 16 years or older

Register your interest by completing the online form below. Or contact our centres in Auckland South, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Nelson, Lower Hutt, Dunedin, Blenheim, Timaru and Southland.

About English Language Partners

We have 21 centres and teach over 7,000 students in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our English courses help people feel welcome and settle into everyday life and work here.

We are not-for-profit, and all our courses are free or low cost for former refugees and migrants.

Kaimo Jiao

VOLUNTEER

The teacher is exceptional and did not (only) teach us specific knowledge, she taught us how to fish. This kind of style of teaching reformed my previous way of learning English.

Pro Kiwi Ltd

LEARNER

We have seen a huge improvement in speaking English during work practice, and our employees have really enjoyed their lessons. The end result has been excellent.

Kaimo Jiao

Learner

The teacher is exceptional and did not (only) teach us specific knowledge, she taught us how to fish. This kind of style of teaching reformed my previous way of learning English.

Jino George

Learner

The course was very useful. The teacher's attitude and inspiration motivated me to learn English. I decided to work hard to improve my language, which is a barrier in the communication. I learnt the importance of stress, intonation and language functions which helped me to improve my pronunciation. I would like to join in her class anytime if I get a chance.😊

Viktoriia Mikhyeyeva

Learner

I was lucky to get to your Road Code course. Migrants need a driver licence so much, but the language barrier prevents them. Thanks to you, anyone can get a driver's licence easily.

Polina Belenitskaia

Learner

If I hadn't taken your Road Code courses, I wouldn't have gotten my driver licence for another million years. After your lessons, it turned out to be very simple, in 10 minutes I got my first driver' licence in my life!

Pa Teauarai

Learner

It made me want to learn more so I can teach my kids English. I share my homework with them too.

Xu Huang

Learner

Learning English at English Language Partners makes me more confident and more positive.

Roger Feng

Learner

Now I have local topics I can talk with others, and I like reading the local news. I feel like I am part of it.

Nor Aini

Learner

Before I can't speak English, and now I can speak a little bit, because my teacher is a very nice teacher and she understands me for everything.

Anggi Putri

Learner

I really love my life now compared to before I started learning English. My life improving a lot in many aspect. I can do everything I want without any worried about communicate in English.

Come see us

We have 21 centres nationwide. Get in touch for a friendly chat. We would love to talk to you!

Like us to contact you?
Give us your details and we
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ESOL Road Code