Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales)
- EU/EEA licences
You can usually drive in Great Britain using your EU or EEA licence for as long as it remains valid. Licences from outside the EU/EEA
You can normally drive for up to 12 months after arriving in the UK. After this period, you may need to:-Exchange your licence for a UK licence, or
-Apply for a provisional licence and pass UK driving tests
Some countries are classed as designated countries, meaning you can exchange your licence without taking a UK driving test. For more information go to: Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence - GOV.UK, Exchange a non-GB driving licence - GOV.UK and Application to register a non-GB driving licence (form D9) - GOV.UK
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland uses a different licensing authority, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA). The rules are broadly similar, but the list of licences that can be exchanged without a test is wider. Guidance is available on the NI Direct website.
International Driving Permits (IDP)
Some drivers may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their foreign driving licence, depending on the country where the licence was issued. An IDP is not a replacement for your licence and must be carried with the original document. You should check whether you need an IDP before driving in the UK using guidance on Driving abroad: Get an international driving permit (IDP) - GOV.UK.
Driving in the UK involves a number of ongoing costs, including:
- Vehicle insurance
- Vehicle tax
- MOT testing
- Fuel, parking and tolls
- Car hire, if applicable
Vehicle insurance
Vehicle insurance is legally required to drive in the UK.
Types of cover include:
- Third party only (legal minimum), covering injury or damage to others
- Third party, fire and theft
- Comprehensive, which also covers damage to your own vehicle
Insurance costs vary depending on the driver, vehicle and level of cover.
Vehicle tax
Most vehicles must be taxed before they can be driven. You can usually pay vehicle tax:
- Online via GOV.UK
- At some Post Office branches
The amount you pay depends on the vehicle’s age and emissions.
Tolls, congestion and low-emission charges
Some roads, bridges and tunnels charge tolls. These are clearly signposted.
London charges
- Congestion Charge applies in central London
- Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) applies across much of Greater London and charges vehicles that do not meet emissions standards
Discounts or exemptions may apply for residents, disabled drivers or certain vehicles. Full details are available from Transport for London.
Several UK cities operate Clean Air Zones (CAZ) or Low Emission Zones (LEZ). Charges or restrictions may apply if your vehicle does not meet local emissions standards.
England
- Some cities, including Birmingham, Bristol and Bath, operate Clean Air Zones
- Rules, charges and exemptions vary by city
Scotland
Scotland operates Low Emission Zones (LEZs) in:
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Dundee
- Aberdeen
Scottish LEZs restrict access for the most polluting vehicles rather than charging a daily fee. Enforcement applies to both UK and non-UK registered vehicles.
Wales
- Wales does not currently operate a national LEZ scheme, but local air quality restrictions may apply in some areas
You should always check local authority guidance before driving in cities with air quality controls.
Driving rules in the UK may differ from those in other countries:
- Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road
- Speed limits are shown in miles per hour (mph)
- Seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and passengers
- Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal
Official rules and road sign guidance are available on GOV.UK.
Parking rules and enforcement
Parking rules are set and enforced by local councils and vary by location.
- Restrictions and charges are shown on roadside signs and parking machines
- Penalties may be issued for overstaying, incorrect payment or parking in restricted areas
- Blue Badge holders may receive additional parking allowances, depending on the area
Always check local signage before parking.
Weather and winter driving
Snow and ice are relatively uncommon in much of the UK but can cause disruption.
- Winter tyres are not mandatory but may be advisable in some regions
- Drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe for the conditions
- There is no general legal requirement to use snow chains
If you do not own a car, you can rent one from a UK car hire company.
Typical requirements include:
- Minimum age of 21 (often 25)
- Holding a full driving licence for at least one year (sometimes two)
Insurance is usually included, but you may need to pay an excess if the vehicle is damaged.
If you have a disability that affects mobility, you may be eligible for a Blue Badge. This provides parking concessions and access to designated parking spaces.
Applications and eligibility information are available through the UK Blue Badge Scheme.