Tourists may soon be be restricted from driving on our roads.

A code of best practice being developed that will allow rental companies to screen drivers when they're hiring a vehicle or picking it up.

Tourism Industry Association spokesman Steve Hanrahan says it's to improve road safety.

He says if tourist drivers are found not to be suitable behind the wheel, alternatives will be suggested.

"Then the operator might be encouraged to provide recommendations about other forms of travel to get through New Zealand, perhaps on a tour coach."