Apply for a Responsible Dog Owner Licence (RDOL)

​Who qualifies for an RDOL?

You have to meet all criteria to get an RDOL:

• You will need to pass a written test of your dog ownership knowledge.
• You will have been a registered dog owner in New Zealand for 12 months or more before applying.
• You have registered your dog on time for the current registration year.
• You haven't had any substantiated abatements, seizures or infringements under the Dog Control Act 1996 for the previous 12 months. 
• Your dog has not been the subject of a substantiated complaint or impoundment under the Dog Control Act 1996 for the previous 12 months.    
• If you have more than two dogs, you have a licence to keep multiple dogs on your property. See Licence to keep more than two dogs on a property.

How to apply for an RDOL​

Complete the application form and take a written test of your dog ownership knowledge.

You need to get 18 out of 20 questions correct to pass the test.

Recommended reading

Read our guide to responsible dog ownership before you take the written test.

Get a copy of the guide

​Your privacy

• The personal information you provide on this form will be used to process your RDOL application.
• We will hold your information but not disclose it to any third party.
• You have the right to access and correct any personal information that you provide.

Processing timeframe

It takes 10 working days to process RDOL applications.

Let us know of any change of your details, address or dog ownership, to avoid delays.