đ Driving in the UK
Your complete guide to driving safely on British roads and motorways
đ Key Information
đ Required Documents
Driving Licence
EU/EEA licences are valid. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) depending on their country of origin.
RequiredVehicle Documents
V5C registration certificate (or hire agreement) should be available. MOT certificate required for vehicles over 3 years old.
RequiredInsurance
Third-party motor insurance is the legal minimum. Carry your insurance certificate or a digital copy.
RequiredRenting a car? Check our essential tips for renting a car in the UK.
⥠Speed Limits
For a detailed breakdown, see our guide to UK speed limits.
đŖī¸ Motorways
The national speed limit on motorways is 70 mph. Variable speed limits apply on smart motorways and must be obeyed.
đŗ Dual Carriageways
Dual carriageways have a 70 mph limit unless otherwise signed. Watch for reduced limits in built-up areas.
đ Single Carriageways
Single carriageway roads have a national limit of 60 mph for cars unless otherwise signed.
đī¸ Built-up Areas
Most urban areas have a 30 mph limit where there are street lights. Some residential areas have 20 mph limits.
â ī¸ Important: Road signs always take priority over national limits. Speed camera fines start from ÂŖ100 and 3 penalty points.
âī¸ Important Driving Rules
Drink Driving
The drink drive limit in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 80mg per 100ml of blood. Scotland has a stricter limit of 50mg. The safest approach is not to drink at all before driving.
Child Car Seats
Children must use the correct car seat until they're 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. The driver is responsible for ensuring children under 14 are properly restrained.
Mobile Phones
It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. This includes when stopped at traffic lights. Penalty: ÂŖ200 fine and 6 points.
Roundabouts
Give way to traffic already on the roundabout coming from your right. Traffic flows clockwise in the UK.
Congestion Charges
London has a Congestion Charge zone (ÂŖ15/day) and an Ultra Low Emission Zone. Durham also has a congestion charge. Read our full guides on the Congestion Charge and ULEZ.
Headlights
You must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced (less than 100m) or between sunset and sunrise. Use dipped beam in built-up areas.
Road Signs
UK road signs use shapes and colours to convey meaning. Circles are orders, triangles are warnings. See our tourist's guide to UK road signs.
Parking
Parking rules can be strict. Watch out for yellow lines and permit zones. Avoid fines with our guide to UK parking rules.
đ¨ Emergency Numbers
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