Cap, shirt driver licence

Motorists are being reminded by the Land Transport Safety Authority to take their driver licences away with them if they are going on a summer holiday.

The Director of Land Transport Safety, Reg Barrett, said today that driver licences should be considered an essential part of any holiday packing.

“If you are going to be on the road at any stage over the summer holiday your driver licence should be top of your ‘must take’ list – along with your sun-screen,” Mr Barrett said.

From 3 May this year it has been compulsory for all drivers to carry their licence with them when driving on public roads. This requirement applies to drivers who have new photo licences as well as those who still hold paper licences. Failure to present a valid licence can result in a $55 fine.

“Some people may consider it an inconvenience but there is a very good reason for requiring all drivers to have their licences with them.

“Unlicenced and disqualified drivers killed 50 people on New Zealand roads last year and regularly cause caused around 10 per cent of all fatal road crashes. That is unacceptable. These people should not be driving at all.

“Combined with tough new penalties, the compulsory carrying of driver licences greatly increases the chances of disqualified drivers being caught and removed from our roads.

“Carrying your licence with you is a small price to pay for helping make our roads safer for everyone,” Mr Barrett said.

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