<P> The minimum driving age varies between 16 and 18 years of age in different States and Territories . After the minimum age, a graduated licensing scheme operates, with state variations . </P> <P> A Cook Islands "License to Drive a Motor Vehicle" is issued at police headquarters on Rarotonga, on production of a valid license from the visitor's home country . To use a scooter or motor cycle (the main hire vehicles for tourists) a short test has to be taken by anyone whose home license is only valid for cars, in which a police officer observes the applicant riding up and down the main street of the capital . </P> <P> Since August 2011, the minimum age to obtain a learner licence is 16 years old in New Zealand; formerly it was 15 years old . </P> <P> There are three different types of drivers licence in New Zealand: learners, restricted and full licence . Learners licences allow the person to drive, with a wide number of restrictions . Restricted licenses allow driving alone between the hours of 5am to 10pm, and require the person to be 161⁄2 . Full licences are restricted to those 18 and over, or 171⁄2 years if an approved advanced driving course has been successfully completed . </P>

When did having a driver license become mandatory