- Check if you can drive in the UK
- Driving legally in the UK
- Need more support?
- Driving laws in the UK
- Further information
Check if you can drive in the UK
Having a driving licence that is valid in your home country does not automatically mean that you can use it in the UK.
The rules depend on your circumstances and the licence you hold.
Use the GOV.UK driving in Great Britain with a non-GB licence checker to find out whether you can drive in Great Britain with your current licence. Great Britain means England, Scotland and Wales.
During your FIRST 12 months in the UK, you may use your own overseas full driving permit or an International Driving Permit. This means that from the first time you come to the UK you only have permission to drive for twelve months - it does not mean that you can drive for twelve months starting any time.
After 12 months in the UK you will need to obtain a UK full driving licence (even if you have not previously driven in the UK). You will need to pass a driving test (both the written test and the practical test) BEFORE the 12 month period has ended.
Check that your licence allows you to drive before you drive a car, motorbike or scooter.
Driving legally in the UK
If you are allowed to drive, make sure you meet all the legal requirements for the vehicle you are driving.
This includes checking that you have the appropriate:
- full driving licence
- motor insurance
- road tax
- MOT, where required.
You can find information about driving licences, bringing vehicles into the UK and other driving requirements on GOV.UK driving in the UK and abroad.
Driving laws in the UK
You must follow UK driving laws, including rules on speed limits and drink driving.
Driving laws may be different from those in your home country, so make sure you understand the rules before you drive.
If you break UK driving laws, you may be prosecuted and may also be subject to the University's disciplinary procedures.
Further information
For more information about driving in the UK and driving licence requirements:
- visit the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
- read UKCISA guidance on travel and transport in the UK
- check GOV.UK guidance for driving with a non-GB licence. [gov.uk]