Driving on the Left
The UK drives on the left side of the road, which can be disorienting for visitors from right-hand-drive countries. The driver sits on the right side of the vehicle, and you overtake on the right. Most hire cars have manual gearboxes, but automatic options are available if you prefer.
Do You Need a UK Driving Licence?
Visitors can drive in the UK using their domestic driving licence for up to 12 months. If your licence is not in English, you may need an International Driving Permit. Check the specific requirements for your country before travelling.
Key Road Rules
- Speed limits: 30 mph in built-up areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways
- Seatbelts: Mandatory for all occupants
- Mobile phones: Illegal to use while driving, even at traffic lights
- Drink driving: The legal limit is strict — our advice is not to drink at all if driving
- Roundabouts: Give way to traffic already on the roundabout, approaching from your right
Mastering Roundabouts
Roundabouts are everywhere in the UK and can be confusing for first-time visitors. The key rules are simple: approach slowly, give way to traffic from your right, and signal left when you are ready to exit. Many roundabouts have multiple lanes — follow road markings and signs.
Motorway Driving
UK motorways are identified by the letter M (M1, M25, M6, etc.). They are generally well maintained with three or four lanes. The left lane is for normal driving; right lanes are for overtaking only. Smart motorways use variable speed limits displayed on overhead gantry signs.
Parking
Pay attention to yellow lines: single yellow lines have restricted parking at certain times, double yellow lines mean no parking at any time. Pay-and-display car parks are common in towns. Many now accept contactless payment.
Hire Car Tips
- Book an automatic if you are not used to manual gearboxes on the left
- Choose a smaller car — UK roads and parking spaces are narrow
- Check your insurance covers driving on the left
- Use a satnav but also carry a road atlas as backup
- Fill up with fuel before returning your car to avoid premium charges
Hit the Road
Once your UK ETA is approved, hiring a car opens up the British countryside, coast, and everything in between.
