UK DRIVING LAWS
Knowing and implementing the regulatory laws of driving or transportation is essential.
It promotes driving habits that stay within the Highway Code rules of safe and courteous motoring.
There are various legal powers which govern the driving rules around the United Kingdom.
As a rule, motorists need to pass a Highway Code driving test to use the public roads and highways ‘legally’. There are also strict regulations for drivers of heavy goods vehicles (HGV) to follow.
The national speed limits restrict maximum traveling speeds for most vehicles on British roads. The road traffic signs used around the United Kingdom are usually stated in imperial units. Thus, the signage for vehicle speed limit is posted in miles per hour (mph).
Driving and Transportation Guide
Blue Badge Scheme
Get information on the Blue Badge scheme as well as the application and renewal procedures. Check the restrictions for disabled parking permits and how to pay parking fines.
Highway Code
The Highway Code laws and guidance is essential reading for all motorists and road users. Its purpose is to reduce road casualties and fatalities in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Learn How to Drive
The information and videos in the section will help you start learning to drive a car step by step. Find out how to get a first provisional licence and the different ways to start driving lessons.
Licences
The official document gives authorisation to drive various types of motor vehicles. Our help guide covers all the popular services for driving licences and legal obligations as a licence holder.
Lorries and Buses
The heavy transportation section lists the rules of driving lorries and buses and goods vehicles. There is also information about carrying loads and roadside checks.
Note: Read everything there is to know about van driving in a comprehensive guide explaining the rules for driving a van in England, Scotland, and Wales.
MOT Rules
Find out how to get an MOT test certificate for a vehicle and the fees. Check MOT rules and regulation on exemptions, a retest, and how to appeal if it fails the test.
Number Plates
Avoid a police check or fine by following this guide on number plate regulations It covers legislation for the ‘Display of Registration Marks’ on cars and other vehicles in the United Kingdom.
Road and Driving Safety
Various driving laws help to keep drivers and passengers safe on the roads. Check the information on the most serious driving safety rules and restrictions.
Road Tax
The new regulation changes to DVLA road tax rules are now in effect. The system allows you to get car tax online (for the first time) and make your car tax renewal online.
Transport and Driving Businesses
The information and guidance in the section explains the rules for transport and driving businesses in the United Kingdom. It covers the current rules for goods vehicle operators and licensing requirements.
Vehicle Insurance
You need minimum liability insurance to drive a vehicle on public roads. Find out how vehicle insurance law works and how policies protect people and property if there is an accident.
Vehicle Registration
The section provides information about the ‘log book’ or vehicle registration document. Find extra guidance explaining how to register your vehicle or change your name and address.
Vehicle Type Approval
The Road Vehicle Approval Regulations came into force in 2009. Having Vehicle Type Approval confirms that its production samples meet or exceed specified performance standards.
UK RULES A-Z: Knowledge is power! Check out an alphabetical list of rules and laws in the United Kingdom.