Getting around the Cook Islands is easy! There's only one main road that circles the whole of Rarotonga with no traffic lights and just two roundabouts. We drive on the left-hand side of the road and at a relaxed speed no faster than 50kmph.

🛵 How to Get Your Scooter Licence in Rarotonga (2025)

Do You Need a Scooter Licence?

If your overseas driver's license already includes a motorcycle class (like a Class 6 in New Zealand), you simply need to visit the police station in Avarua, pay NZ$20, and they'll issue you a Cook Islands visitor motorcycle license. No tests needed.

If your license does not include a motorcycle endorsement, you will need to pass both a theory test and a practical riding test to get a scooter license.

📍 Where to Get Your Licence

You must go to the Cook Islands Police Station in Avarua, located on the main road.

Hire a Scooter Nearby: After passing your theory test at the police station in Avarua, you can rent a scooter from rental companies located within walking distance. For example, Polynesian Rental Cars & Bikes is situated right next door, making it convenient to hire a scooter for your practical test.

✅ Steps to Get Your Scooter License

Bring the Required Documents:

Overseas driver’s license, Passport, a scooter with a helmet (required for the riding test)

Fill Out the Application Form:

Available at the police station.

You’ll fill out basic personal information and select the appropriate license class (A1 for scooters up to 125cc).

Take the Theory Test:

25 questions (multiple choice and short answers)

You need to get at least 23 correct to pass.

Theory test times: Monday–Thursday at 9am, 11am, 1pm; Friday at 9am and 11am

Take the Practical Riding Test:

Performed at the police station.

You’ll demonstrate basic riding skills like starting, stopping, turning, and weaving through cones.

Practical test times: Monday–Thursday at 10am and 2pm; Friday at 10am and 1pm.

💰 Total Cost:

Theory Test NZ$10

Practical Test NZ$10

License Issuance NZ$20

Total NZ$40

⚠️ Important Notes:

Helmet use is mandatory for all riders and passengers.

Road conditions can vary: watch for potholes & roaming animals.

Prices and processes may slightly change, so its best to do your up to date research just before your trip (Link below has updated information)

Insurance: check with your travel insurance company if they will cover you driving a 125cc scooter on a local license. Our experience was (as kiwis) that they will only cover you with a 49cc or under scooter, because in NZ laws - you can drive that with with a car learners license and anything over that cc rating, requires a minimum of a learners motorbike license (luckily we both have a bike license).

Test Fails: If you fail any of the tests, another day and time can be allocated for you to re-take either test.

Tip: go early in the morning to avoid queues, and don’t forget proper shoes!

Reviews:
"Way easier than I expected. Staff were patient and even made it fun!" – Tom, Google Reviews

"Get there early and bring cash — we were out with our licences in under an hour!" – Rachel, Tripadvisor