Planning to drive across the scenic countryside of England, explore the rugged coasts of Scotland, or navigate quaint Welsh villages in 2025? Renting a car in the UK as a tourist is a fantastic way to experience the country at your own pace — but before you hit the road, there are important rules, local customs, and essential tips you need to know. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect when driving in the UK as a tourist in 2025 — including licensing, road signs, speed limits, roundabouts, tolls, fuel tips, and more.
Can Tourists Drive in the UK in 2025?
Yes, tourists can drive in the UK in 2025 as long as they meet the following conditions:
Have a valid driving licence from their home country.
If the licence is not in English (e.g. written in Arabic, Chinese, etc.), you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — especially for police checks or car rental.
Must be 17 or older (though most rental companies require you to be 21+ or even 25+ for premium vehicles).
If staying longer than 12 months, you must apply for a UK driving licence.
- Check IDP requirements by country on the UK Government’s official site.
Renting a Car in the UK as a Foreigner
Renting a car in the UK is simple — but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Rental Requirements: Passport, credit card, valid driver’s licence (and IDP if applicable).
Minimum age: Usually 23 or 25, with surcharges for younger drivers.
Insurance: Third-party insurance is legally required. Most rentals come with basic insurance, but you may want to upgrade to CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or full coverage.
Recommended car rental platforms:
Discover Cars – user-friendly, transparent prices.
Rentalcars.com – good for comparing global companies like Hertz, Avis, Sixt.
Driving Rules & Road Laws in the UK (2025)
1. Drive on the Left
Yes, it’s the opposite of what most of the world is used to! Always stay on the left-hand side of the road. The steering wheel is on the right side of the car.
Tip: If you’re nervous, start driving outside of busy cities first (e.g. in the Lake District or Cotswolds).
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2. Speed Limits
- Speed is marked in miles per hour (mph) — not km/h.
Motorways (Highways): 70 mph
Single carriageways: 60 mph
Urban areas: 30 mph (often reduced to 20 mph in city centres or near schools)
- Speed cameras are everywhere. Fines can be issued even to rental cars.
3. Roundabouts
The UK loves roundabouts. Yield to traffic from the right, signal your exits, and don’t panic — most are well-marked.
Road Signs & Symbols Tourists Should Know
UK road signs may look unfamiliar, but many are intuitive. Here are a few key ones:
Red circle = prohibition (e.g. no entry, speed limits)
Blue circle = mandatory actions (e.g. turn left)
Triangles = warnings (sharp turns, animal crossings)
Yellow box junctions = don’t enter unless the exit is clear
Learn UK road signs before your trip using this official guide.
Fueling & Motorway Services
Fuel Types: Petrol (unleaded), Diesel, Electric
Stations: Available nationwide, including 24/7 stations along major motorways.
Payment: Most accept credit/debit cards and contactless.
Electric vehicle charging points are growing rapidly. Use apps like Zap-Map to locate EV chargers.
Tolls & Congestion Charges
Most UK roads are toll-free, but be aware of these:
Dartford Crossing (London) – pay online via Dart Charge
London Congestion Charge – applies in central London (usually £15/day). Learn more here.
Rental companies often pass toll fees onto you with added admin charges — check your agreement carefully.
Parking Rules
Pay-and-display machines: Common in cities
Yellow lines: No parking (single = timed restrictions, double = always prohibited)
Blue Badge holders: Disabled parking privileges
- Avoid parking fines by using parking apps like:
What to Do If You’re Stopped by Police
Stay calm and pull over safely. You may be asked to show:
Driver’s licence
Passport
Proof of insurance
Rental documents
Police may issue on-the-spot fines for minor infractions (speeding, phone use, etc.). These are legally enforceable.
Driving in the UK Weather
Rain: Frequent and often sudden, especially in Scotland and Wales. Use headlights in heavy rain.
Fog: Use fog lights (only when visibility drops below 100 metres).
Snow/Ice: Rare but possible in northern regions in winter. If you’re unsure, avoid driving in snow.
Don’t Do This While Driving in the UK
Don’t use your mobile phone (even at traffic lights)
Don’t drive under the influence (UK drink-drive limits are lower than in the US or EU)
Don’t assume pedestrians will yield — they have right of way at crossings
Final Tips for a Smooth Driving Experience
Use a sat nav or Google Maps (download offline maps for rural areas)
Stick to rural roads for scenic drives (e.g. Scottish Highlands, Cornwall, Yorkshire Dales)
Plan for manual transmission cars — automatics are limited and often pricier
Keep some pounds (£) for parking meters or rural fuel stops
FAQs: Driving in the UK as a Tourist
Q: Can I use my US driving licence in the UK?
Yes, for up to 12 months. An IDP is not required for US tourists but can be useful.
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Q: Is it difficult to drive in London?
It can be stressful due to traffic, cameras, congestion charges, and narrow roads. If possible, use public transport in London and rent a car when leaving the city.
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Q: Are UK roads safe?
Yes. The UK has one of the lowest road fatality rates in Europe. Just follow the rules and stay alert.
Final Thoughts
Driving in the UK as a tourist can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences — giving you access to hidden gems, remote castles, breathtaking landscapes, and charming countryside villages. Just make sure you’re informed, prepared, and confident behind the wheel.
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it or bookmark it for your trip. Have a safe and scenic drive across the UK!
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
