NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi logo

Road user charges (RUC)

Anyone using New Zealand’s roads contributes towards their upkeep. Most road users pay levies when they buy fuel. Others, such as drivers of light diesel vehicles and heavy vehicles like trucks, pay through road user charges (RUC).

RUC now applies to light electric vehicles

If you have a light electric vehicle, you have until 31 May 2024 to buy your first road user charges (RUC) licence and display it on your windscreen.

This includes plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). It doesn't include petrol hybrids that can’t plug in to recharge. 

RUC for electric vehicles

RUC for electric vehicles

If you have a light electric vehicle, you have until 31 May 2024 to buy your first RUC licence.

About RUC

Find out who pays RUC and how to find your RUC weight.

Buy a RUC licence

RUC licences

All RUC vehicles must display distance licences.

RUC rates and transaction fees

Rates for powered and unpowered vehicles.

RUC exemptions

Electric vehicles, vehicles unsuitable for regular road use, and some light diesel vehicles that are used almost exclusively off-road may be exempt from RUC.

RUC refunds

You may be able to get a refund of your unused RUC distance if you've changed your hubodometer, have travelled off the public roads or your vehicle registration has been cancelled.

RUC distance recorders

All RUC vehicles must be fitted with a distance recorder.

RUC assessments

Waka Kotahi can issue assessments (an invoice) for any unpaid RUC.

RUC record keeping

Transport service licence holders, other than a rental service licence holder, must keep and retain records relating to RUC vehicles.

RUC applications

Road user charges (RUC) temporary reduction scheme

The temporary RUC reduction ended on 30 June 2023. Standard rates now apply.

Traffic and travel information
Driver licences
Vehicles
Roads and rail
Commercial driving
Safety
Walking, cycling and public transport
Planning and investment