Career Paths
Entry requirements
To become a heavy truck driver you need to hold a licence for the size of truck you intend to drive.
- You must first get a Class 2 learner's licence. To get this licence you must have held a full car licence for at least six months.
- Once you have the Class 2 licence, you can work toward licences for other vehicle classes.
Heavy truck drivers who carry hazardous goods need to have completed unit standards in dangerous goods, which can be done as part of a National Certificate in Commercial Road Transport.
National Certificates in Commercial Road Transport are available through the New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO).
The New Zealand Army also trains and employs heavy truck drivers.
- NZ Motor Industry Training Organisation website - information about National Certificates in Commercial Road Transport
- New Zealand Transport Agency website - information on trucks and other heavy vehicle licences
Secondary education
There are no specific secondary education requirements, but useful subjects include NCEA Level 1 maths and English.
Personal requirements
Heavy truck drivers need to be:
- punctual
- reliable and responsible
- able to follow instructions
- able to remain calm in emergencies
- able to work well under pressure
- courteous and law-abiding on the road
- able to pass drug and alcohol tests
Useful experience
Useful experience includes:
- working as a truck driver's assistant
- any driving work
- working on the docks
- warehouses or stores work
Physical requirements
Heavy truck drivers need to have good eyesight (with or without corrective lenses)
Related courses
View information on courses in the course database
Find out more about training
- NZ Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO)
- 0800 882 121 - info@mito.org.nz - www.mito.org.nz
