Driving in the UK: A Simple Guide for Foreigners

If you’re moving to Britain, you may be a little daunted by the thought of driving in the UK. I was too when I first moved here, but it’s not as complicated as it seems. 

From licensing to left hand driving to lessons, let’s go over everything you need to know to prepare for driving in the UK, no matter where you’re moving from. 

Driving in the UK: How it’s Different from Other Countries

Driving in the UK involves a specific set of rules and regulations that can be very different from other countries.

Here are the most basic ones that are often strange to foreigners:

🚘 Driving on the Left

In the UK, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. This means that the driver’s seat is on the right-hand side of the vehicle. For Aussies, this isn’t a big deal, but for us Americans and Canadians, it’s a huge shift to get used to. Everything is backwards: the “fast” lane is on the right instead of the left.

🚘 Speed Limits

Distance is usually measured in kilometers (km), but speed is usually measured in Miles Per Hour (MPH). Typically, the limits are 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, 60 mph (96 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (112 km/h) on dual carriageways and motorways. These speed limits can seem really low for some foreigners. Speed is strictly enforced and there are lots of traffic cameras.

🚘 Narrow Roads

Forget the massive highways of other countries. Many roads in the UK are just wide enough for two cars to pass each other, and sometimes not even wide enough for that. 

🚘 Driving License and Insurance

Getting a driver’s license is notoriously difficult in the UK. The process is strict, costs a lot, and comes with many hoops to jump through.

🚘 Road Signs and Signals

Understanding UK road signs, which can be very different from those in other countries, is crucial. In my personal opinion, the UK uses more symbols than other countries. Driving in America, signs are more obvious. It’ll take some decoding and studying to figure it all out! 

🚘 Roundabouts

Roundabouts are common in the UK and require specific rules of navigation, such as giving way to traffic from the right and signaling appropriately. Roundabouts can be terrifying for those who haven’t used them regularly before. 

🚘 Mobile Phones

It’s illegal to even hold a phone while driving. That’s right – talking on the phone is fine if you’re using bluetooth. But the moment you touch the phone? Illegal. 

🚘 Stop vs. Give Way:

‘Stop’ signs are used in the UK and must be adhered to completely. But ‘Give Way’ signs are much more common, and are used to manage right-of-way at junctions and roundabouts.

🚘 Zebra Crossings

Drivers must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross at zebra crossings (crosswalks). Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right of way at Zebra crossings and the fines are hefty if you disobey. 

🚘 Parking Regulations

Parking restrictions are strictly enforced, and paid parking or permit parking is standard. Look for signs indicating parking regulations and restrictions and don’t ever walk away without paying. I’ve seen more parking enforcement officers in a month here in London than in 30 years of living in the US. 

🚘 Congestion Zones

Some urban areas have low emission zones where vehicles that do not meet certain emissions standards may be subject to a charge. Other areas charge for entry in what’s called a “congestion zone.” In London these can be especially tricky to navigate.

🚘 Alcohol Limit

The legal limit for alcohol is a lot lower in the UK than in many other countries. The limit is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood. However, it’s safest to avoid drinking altogether if you’re driving. Just don’t do it! 

🚘 Manual Transmissions

Otherwise known as a “stick shift,” manual transmissions are standard in the UK and in most of Europe. If you don’t already know how to drive one, it’s best to learn! Automatic transmissions are more rare and also more expensive to rent and buy.

Driving in the UK on a Foreign License

Driving in the UK on a foreign license is possible, but there are specific rules and limitations that you need to be aware of.

Here’s a general guide on how to do it.

Am I Eligible to Drive on my Foreign License?

You first need to check the regulations for your current driver’s license.

If you have a full and valid driving license from your home country, you can generally use it to drive in the UK for 12 months.

The rules differ slightly depending on whether your license is from an EU/EEA country or a non-EU/EEA country.

Driving in the UK on a Foreign License: How Long Can I do it? 

• For EU/EEA licenses, you can drive in the UK on your existing license until it expires, even if you are a UK resident.
• For non-EU/EEA licenses, you can usually drive on your existing license for up to 12 months from the date you became a resident in the UK.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) might be required in addition to your foreign license, particularly if your license is not in English.

Converting Your Foreign Licence to a Driving License in the UK 

If you’ve been driving in the UK on a foreign license and your 12 month period is up, it’s time to convert your license to a UK one.

Don’t wait to start the process – it can take a while.

How Can I Convert my Driver’s License to a UK one? 

In the UK, drivers from certain countries can exchange their foreign driving license for a UK one without having to retake driving tests. 

This process, however, is subject to specific regulations and time limits.

Here’s a list of countries and territories whose licenses can be exchanged for a UK driving license.

Drivers from the European Economic Area (EEA)

Drivers with a license from any EEA country can drive in the UK until their license expires, and they can exchange their license for a UK one:

• All EU Countries
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Norway

Drivers from Designated Countries

The UK has arrangements with certain ‘designated countries’ where licenses can be exchanged. These include:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Barbados
• British Virgin Islands
• Canada
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• Gibraltar
• Hong Kong
• Japan
• Monaco
• New Zealand
• Republic of Korea (South Korea)
• Singapore
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Zimbabwe

Drivers From Non-Designated Countries

Drivers from countries not on this list will need to follow the steps below for how to apply for and get a UK driving license. 

However, you are usually allowed to drive on your foreign license for up to 12 months from the time you become a UK resident.

Requirements for Converting your Driver’s License to the UK 

Always check current government regulations when converting your driver’s license to the UK.

Here’s the basic requirements, which will vary given your specific situation: 

• Time Limits: Usually, the exchange must occur within a certain period after becoming a UK resident (often within 5 years of moving).
• License Validity: The original license must be valid and not expired.
• Tests: In most cases, you won’t need to retake the driving test. However, there might be exceptions based on specific conditions or endorsements.
• Licenses must be in English: If the original license is not in English, it needs to be accompanied by an official translation or an International Driving Permit.

Exchange Process for Foreign Licence to UK Licence: How to Do It?

The process of exchanging a foreign license for a UK license involves submitting an application to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).

Here’s the basic steps: 

• Application for Conversion: Submit your application to the DVLA. The application and process of converting your license depends on the country where it was issued.
• Tests and Assessments: In some cases, you may need to pass a UK driving test (theory and practical) to convert your license.
• Documentation: Be prepared with the necessary documents, including proof of residency, your current license, and any additional paperwork required by the DVLA. 

How to Learn to Drive in the UK: The Basics

Don’t have a license from a country that can be converted? The bad news: you’ll need to know how to learn to drive in the UK. 

The good news? I’ll lay out this process right here in the simplest terms. 

Cost & Time Frame 

If you have 12 months to drive on your current country’s license, DO NOT WAIT to start the process of getting a UK license. It will take a while!

Getting a driving license in the UK involves several steps and associated costs, and the timeframe can vary depending on your learning pace and availability for lessons and tests.

Here’s an overview of the process:

• Total Cost: On average, the total cost of getting a driving license in the UK, including lessons, tests, and materials, can be anywhere from £1,000 to £1,500 or more, depending on the number of lessons and attempts at the tests.
• Total Timeframe: The total time from starting lessons to obtaining a license can range from a few months to over a year, depending on lesson frequency, learning pace, and test waiting times.

It’s important to note that these are average figures, and individual experiences can vary.

Additionally, costs and waiting times can be higher in certain areas and during certain times of the year.

Steps to Get Your UK License

Learning to drive in the UK involves a few key steps that you have to do in order. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

1. Get a Provisional Driving License 

Before you start learning to drive, you need to obtain a provisional driving license. You can apply for this through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) when you’re at least 15 years and 9 months old, but you can only start driving a car when you’re 17.

The cost for applying is £34 online or £43 by post.

2. Learn the Theory 

Study for the theory test, which covers UK road signs, signals, rules, weather conditions, and basic first aid. There are various resources available, including books, websites, and apps to help with your preparation.

For the theory test, you might need to purchase some learning materials, which can cost anywhere from free to £50.

3. Take the Theory Test 

Once you’re ready, book and take the theory test. It costs £23, and the test includes multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.

You can typically take it soon after getting your provisional license, provided you’ve prepared adequately. Waiting times can vary but are usually a few weeks.

After passing the theory test, the time it takes to be ready for the practical test varies. On average, it takes a few months of regular lessons. 

4. Learn to Drive

You can start taking driving lessons with a qualified instructor. You can also practice with friends or family, provided they meet certain criteria (like having held a full driving license for over 3 years and being over 21).

The cost of driving lessons varies across the UK, but the average is about £25 to £30 per hour. The total number of hours you’ll need depends on your learning rate. On average, people take around 45 hours of professional lessons, with some additional practice.

5. Gain Experience 

It’s important to practice driving in various conditions and settings, like in town, in the countryside, on motorways, and in different weather conditions.

Some learners opt for mock tests, which are usually priced the same as regular driving lessons.

6. Take the Practical Driving Test 

Once your instructor feels you’re ready, you can take the practical driving test, which costs £62 on weekdays and £75 for evenings, weekends, and bank holidays. The test includes an eyesight check, ‘show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions, general driving ability assessment, and independent driving.

Waiting times for practical tests can vary significantly, especially if there are backlogs (which became common during COVID and aren’t that much better now).

If you don’t pass the theory or practical test on the first try, you’ll need to pay for additional tests. You have to wait at least 10 working days in between tests. 

7. Get Full License

If you pass the practical test, you’ll get your full driving license and can then drive without any restrictions!

Tips for Driving in the UK: Top 10

Driving in the UK can be a unique experience, especially for those not accustomed to British roads.

Here are some tips to help you navigate safely and confidently, from my experience as an American driving in the UK.

1. Drive on the Left ✅

This is the most important one, obviously! This can be hardest to remember at intersections, where your reflexes can kick in and set you on the wrong path.

After a while, you’ll get used to it and it will be your new normal, and you’ll have new reflexes.

2. Understand Roundabouts ✅

Roundabouts are common in the UK and are used instead of traffic lights at many intersections. Always give way to traffic from the right and signal your exit from the roundabout.

Roundabouts are intimidating for new UK drivers, but with practice you’ll get used to them.

3. Manual Transmission ✅

Most cars in the UK are manual (stick shift).

It’s important to note that even though the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car, the orientation of the stick shift and pedals are the same on every car (i.e. the gas and brake are not reversed, 1st gear is still upper left).

4. Speed Limits and Units ✅

Speed limits are usually in miles per hour (mph), not kilometers. It’s a confusing addition to the metric vs imperial systems of measurement.

5. Be Aware on Narrow Roads ✅

Especially in rural areas and older parts of cities, roads can be quite narrow and sometimes barely wide enough for two vehicles. Be prepared to slow down or stop to let oncoming traffic pass in tight spaces.

6. Use of Indicators ✅

Always use your turn signals (indicators, aka “blinkers”) to show your intentions to other drivers, especially in roundabouts. I’ve found that most people always use their indicators, vs the US where it’s very hit or miss.

7. Parking Regulations ✅

Pay close attention to parking signs and regulations. In many areas, parking is tightly controlled and can be expensive.

8. No Right Turn on Red ✅

Unlike in some countries, in the UK you are not allowed to turn right on a red light (equivalent to a left turn on red in countries that drive on the right).

9. Understand Zebra Crossings ✅

Pedestrian crossings (known as zebra crossings) are common. Drivers must stop for pedestrians waiting to cross. Tickets/fines for this faux pas are really expensive.

10. Avoid Central London ✅

If you’re new to driving in the UK, avoid driving in central London where traffic is heavy and it’s more stressful.

Remember, safety is the most important thing. Take it slow and easy when you’re starting out.

Cultural Aspects of Driving in the UK

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Where I’m from in America, driving is like the wild wild west. Here, things are a bit more calm and civilized.

Understanding the etiquette and cultural aspects of driving in the UK can help you predict what will happen on the road.

Generally, but not always, these are the commonalities of UK drivers:

👉🏻 Politeness and Patience

British drivers are generally known for being polite. Aggressive driving, honking without a good reason, and road rage are frowned upon, though like driving in any other country, you will see this behavior. It’s common to acknowledge another driver’s courtesy with a wave or a nod.

👉🏻 Queuing

The UK is famous for its culture of queuing (lining up). This extends to driving as well. Drivers are expected to wait their turn at stop signs, in traffic, and especially in congested areas.

👉🏻 Speed Limits

Speed limits are strictly enforced in the UK. You’ll often encounter speed cameras and average speed check zones. Not adhering to speed limits can get you a hefty fine in the post.

👉🏻 Overtaking

Overtake (pass) other vehicles only on the right (outside) lane on motorways and dual carriageways. Overtaking on the left (inside lane, or ‘undertaking’) is considered bad practice and can be dangerous.

👉🏻 Roundabout Courtesy

At roundabouts, it’s important to yield to traffic from the right and signal your intentions clearly. It’s also courteous to not cut across lanes within the roundabout. When you’re first learning, it’s stressful. But you’ll get used to it.

👉🏻 Parking Sensibly

Park in designated areas and be mindful not to block driveways or narrow streets. In many residential areas, parking spaces can be tight.

👉🏻 Use of Horns

The horn is used sparingly in the UK, typically only for alerting other drivers of your presence in situations where they may not have seen you. Using your horn aggressively or in anger is considered very rude.

👉🏻 Headlight Flashing

Flashing your headlights is generally used to alert other drivers of your presence, not to signify yielding or to reprimand them.

👉🏻 Pedestrian Right of Way

Pedestrians have the right of way at marked crosswalks (zebra crossings), and drivers are expected to stop for them.

👉🏻 Keeping Left

Stay in the left lane on motorways and dual carriageways unless you are overtaking. Hogging the middle or right-hand lane is considered poor etiquette.

👉🏻 Thank You and Apology Gestures

Simple hand gestures to say thank you or to apologize for a minor mistake are common and appreciated. In the countryside, residents often politely wave on desolate roads.

👉🏻 Awareness of Cyclists and Motorcyclists

Be particularly aware of and courteous to cyclists and motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable on the road. Motorcycles will often drive between lanes during traffic, so always check your blind spots.

👉🏻 Driving in Countryside

If you’re driving in rural areas, be mindful of local wildlife and livestock, and be prepared for narrow, winding roads.

👉🏻 No Mobile Phones

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal and socially frowned upon. Make sure you set up your bluetooth before you get on the road.

Understanding and adhering to these cultural norms and etiquette tips will not only ensure that you’re driving legally and safely in the UK, but will also help you to have a more pleasant and respectful experience on the roads.

Useful Resources for Foreign Drivers in the UK

For foreign drivers in the UK, accessing the right resources can be crucial for understanding the local driving laws, practices, and requirements.

Here are the official sources from which to find out what you need to know for your situation:

• DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency): The DVLA is the official UK government website for driving-related information. It provides details on driving licenses, vehicle registration, and driving laws. Their website is gov.uk/dvla.
• The Highway Code: This is a fundamental resource for anyone driving in the UK. It contains information on road signs, markings, rules, and regulations. It’s available online at gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code.
• GOV.UK: The UK government’s official website provides comprehensive information on driving in the UK, including how to apply for a license, driving test details, and legal requirements. Visit gov.uk/browse/driving for more information.

Final Tips

Here’s my most important advice for how to learn to drive in the UK:

• ✅ Don’t wait to start the process of getting a driver’s licence. The process here is more complicated and takes longer than in many other countries.
• ✅ Get comfortable driving a manual transmission. You’ll save money and have an easier time renting or buying a car.
• ✅ Learn your road signs. Some of the symbols look mysterious, but once you know them you’ll have an easier time deciphering driving rules.
• ✅ Find a reputable driving instructor. A good instructor will prepare you for the test and help you pass the first time.

Good luck!

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