Essential Road Rules for Visitors Driving in the United Kingdom

Driving in the UK for the first time? It’s crucial to understand local traffic rules, speed limits, and other regulations. QMH Driving School has compiled a guide to help you navigate British roads smoothly. Here are some key driving tips to know before your trip:

Rules and Regulations

• Drive on the left: Always keep to the left side of the road.
• Middle lane usage: Do not use the middle lane if the inside lane is clear.
• Roundabouts: Yield to traffic coming from the right unless otherwise indicated.
• Obey signals and signs: Follow all traffic signals and road signs.
• Emergency vehicles: Give way to emergency service vehicles safely.
• Horn use: Do not use your horn in built-up areas between 23:30 and 07:00 daily.
• Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal. Pull over safely if you need to make a call.
• Seat belts: Wearing a seat belt is mandatory. Fines up to £500 can be issued for non-compliance.
• Alcohol limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Offenders face fines up to £5,000, up to 6 months imprisonment, and a 12-month driving ban for first offenses.
• Minimum driving age: The minimum age for driving is 17.

For a complete understanding, review the Highway Code website before you drive.

Speed Limits

Speed limits vary by road type and vehicle. Always adhere to the maximum speed limits posted.

Seat Belts

Wearing seat belts is compulsory if fitted. Children aged 3-12 years and under 135 cm must use appropriate child restraints.

Driving Licences

To drive in the UK, you need:

• A valid full driving licence from the EC/EEA or
• A valid full national licence from your country for up to 12 months (for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and 8 passenger seats).
• Provisional (learner’s) licences are not valid.
• You must have held a full licence for at least one year to rent a car. Some rental companies, like Avis in Ireland, require 8 years of driving experience, including 2 years with a full licence.

Since June 8, 2015, the UK has paperless driving licences. Ensure to fill out the required form in advance to receive a special code. Contact DVLA at 0300 083 0013 for issues.

Parking

Parking regulations can be complex. Always check for restrictions to avoid fines.

Red & Yellow Lines

• Single yellow lines: Parking is restricted at specific times. Check nearby signs for details.
• Double yellow lines: No parking at any time.
• Single red lines: No parking or stopping at certain times as indicated.
• Double red lines: No parking or stopping at any time.

Car Parks

Car parks, which may require a fee, offer a safer parking option compared to on-street parking. Look for a charges board at the entrance and always keep valuables out of sight.

Pay & Display

Purchase a ticket for parking time and display it clearly on your dashboard. Renew your ticket before it expires if needed.

Roundabouts

When approaching a roundabout:

• Use the mirror-signal-manoeuvre process.
• Choose your exit early and signal appropriately.
• Enter the correct lane and adjust your speed as necessary.
• Stay aware of surrounding traffic.

Congestion Charge

Driving in central London may incur a Congestion Charge between 07:00 and 18:00, Monday to Friday. This fee helps reduce traffic and improve transport. The zone is monitored by CCTV, and you must pay the charge electronically. For details, visit the Transport for London website.

Alcohol and Road Safety

Strict penalties apply for driving under the influence. Offenders may face imprisonment, bans, and unlimited fines. Penalties are determined by the court based on the offense.
For more details on any of these points, visit the driving.org website or contact local authorities. Safe travels!