Driving in England can seem daunting to those not used to its winding roads, high traffic volumes and strict regulations. However, with some preparation and knowledge of the basic rules, driving in England does not have to be difficult. In this comprehensive guide, we will answer common questions about driving in England and provide tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Is a special license required to drive in England?
If you hold a valid driver’s license from another European Union country or Switzerland, Iceland, Norway or Liechtenstein, you can drive in England using your existing license. Drivers from other countries will need to apply for a British license once they become resident in England.
To drive in England with a non-British license, your license must be valid, not suspended and meet the minimum age requirements (17 for a car, 21 for vans/trucks). An International Driving Permit is not mandatory but can be useful as an additional form of ID and to provide translations of your license.
How difficult is it to drive on the left side of the road?
For those used to driving on the right, adjusting to left-hand driving in England can feel unfamiliar at first. However, with care and practice it does not have to be difficult. Go slowly at first, be extra vigilant and conscious of staying left. Plan routes along quieter roads until you gain confidence. Sitting on the passenger side when being driven by someone else can help you get accustomed to the different perspective. Within a few days driving on the left will start to feel more natural.
What are the national speed limits in England?
England has three main speed limit categories:
- Motorways (major highways) – 70mph
- Dual carriageways (divided highways with two lanes in each direction) – 70mph
- Single carriageways (all other roads) – 60mph
- Built up areas (unless otherwise signed) – 30mph
There are many areas in towns and cities with even lower limits of 20mph. Speed limit signs show the maximum speed so you must never exceed the stated limit. Drivers should match their speed to the conditions and drive slower when appropriate.
How strict are the traffic laws in England?
England has strict traffic laws that are rigidly enforced. Speed and red light cameras monitor roads nationwide. The police can stop any driver at any time to check license, insurance, vehicle condition and sobriety. Penalties for violations include significant fines, penalty points on your license and even jail time for more serious offenses. Some key laws to note:
- It is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving – hands-free use only.
- The alcohol limit is very low – just 20-50mg alcohol per 100ml blood.
- Seat belts are compulsory for all passengers.
- You must not park on double yellow lines.
- You must come to a complete stop at junctions marked ‘Stop’.
Knowing the laws and driving within them at all times is strongly advised.
How suitable are rental cars for driving in England?
Rental cars are well-suited for driving in England as they have steering wheels on the right and all signage/instructions will match. Choose a reputable company and ask for an automatic model unless you are very comfortable with manual transmission. Consider adding excess insurance for peace of mind. Clarify if certain toll roads or congestion charge zones are included or excluded. Also confirm if winter snow tires are available when renting during colder months.
Is driving in London more difficult than other areas?
London can be more challenging to drive in than other British cities or rural areas. Reasons include:
- Much higher traffic volumes, especially during rush hours.
- Numerous cyclists and motorcyclists weaving through traffic.
- More pedestrians crossing roads.
- Narrow roads and complicated intersections.
- One-way systems can be confusing.
- Congestion charging zones.
- Lack of parking spaces.
However, the basic principles are the same as elsewhere in England. Go slowly, follow signs, don’t drive while tired or stressed and use public transportation if possible. With caution and practice, London driving does not have to be excessively difficult. Using a navigation app can also help significantly.
What side do you pass on in England?
Always pass on the right. The left lane is used for normal driving while the right lane is for overtaking. After passing another car, you must move back into the left lane once clear. Tailgating is prohibited – you must allow sufficient distance between vehicles. Flashing headlights is used to indicate to another driver that they can pull back into your lane after passing.
Are the roads narrow or wide in England?
There is significant variation when it comes to road width. Motorways and major highways tend to be wide, with 2-3 lanes in each direction. Rural single carriageways are often quite narrow with space for just one vehicle in each direction. Urban roads come in all sizes – some streets in cities like London are extremely narrow while thoroughfares can be up to 4 lanes across. Generally you need a greater degree of caution and skill driving on narrow versus wide roads.
How to tackle England’s roundabouts?
Roundabouts are very common across England and require getting used to. Approach slowly and give priority to traffic already on the roundabout. Use signals to indicate your exit and stay in the left lane within the roundabout unless overtaking or turning right. At larger roundabouts, look for lane guidance signs. Avoid stopping on the roundabout where possible. If you miss your exit, continue around again – never reverse. With practice, roundabouts become far less intimidating.
Is parking easy to find in England?
Parking availability varies greatly by location. In Central London and other major city centers it can be very scarce and expensive. Conversely, in suburban and rural areas parking is more readily available. England has many pay and display on-street parking areas requiring purchase of a ticket. There are also car parks (parking garages) and parking lots (outdoor car parks), often with hourly fees. Parking restrictions are always signposted, so check carefully before leaving your vehicle. Parking fines are expensive, so obey restrictions.
What side of the road do you park on in England?
Outside London you may park on either the left or right side of the road unless signposted otherwise. In London and some busy urban areas, parking on the right is not permitted and you must park on the left. Always check street signs meticulously for parking instructions when stopping – the rules vary. Penalty Charge Notices start at £50 for minor parking infringements so parking correctly is imperative.
What are the seat belt laws in England?
Wearing a seat belt is compulsory for drivers and passengers in England. The driver is legally responsible for ensuring all passengers under 14 years wear a seat belt. Not buckling up can incur an on-the-spot fine and penalty points. The only exceptions are usage of a reversing seat or where a valid medical exemption certificate is held. Children under 12 or 135cm tall must use appropriate child restraints rather than seat belts alone.
Can you make turns on red in England?
No, turning on a red light is prohibited in England. You must come to a complete stop at red lights and wait for the light to turn green before proceeding. Red lights with a small green filter arrow are the only exception – these permit you to turn left while giving way to pedestrians. Running a red light is extremely dangerous and illegal. Enforcement cameras are widespread so do not be tempted to jump the lights.
Is drink driving a big problem in England?
Sadly yes, drink driving remains a persistent issue in England. Around one in six driving deaths involve a drunk driver over the limit. Police breathalyze drivers routinely at checkpoints across England, especially at nights and weekends. The legal blood alcohol limit is just 20mg per 100ml. Being over the limit carries stiff penalties of fines, license revocation and imprisonment. While public awareness campaigns help, drink driving continues catching out many drivers in England.
What should you do if you have car trouble on a highway?
If your vehicle breaks down on a motorway or other major road, move into the left shoulder or emergency stopping lane and turn on hazard lights. Exit the vehicle via doors on the right for safety. Move behind a barrier if possible. Call for breakdown assistance. Only attempt repairs if safe to do so. If available, use an emergency roadside telephone. Do not place warning triangles on motorway lanes. If necessary, contact Highways England via an emergency roadside phone.
How do you pay tolls on England’s roads?
England has several toll roads, tunnels and bridges which require payment of toll fees:
- M6 Toll – Electronic tag or online payment within 24 hours.
- Dartford Crossing – Online payment by midnight the next day or pay at a retail outlet.
- Severn Crossings – Online or telephone payments. No toll booths.
- Mersey Gateway Bridge – Pre-paid electronic tags or camera bill sent for online payment.
For foreign drivers, rental cars may have electronic tags already activated or tolls can be paid retrospectively online. Avoid driving through automated toll points without means to pay, as heavy fines apply.
What are England’s motorway driving rules?
Key motorway driving rules in England include:
- Stay in the left lane unless overtaking. The right lane is for passing.
- Maintain a two-second gap from the vehicle in front.
- Indicate before changing lanes.
- Do not stop or reverse on the motorway.
- No U-turns permitted.
- Use dedicated breakdown bays if stopping.
- Obey variable speed limits (shown on overhead gantries).
Additionally, new drivers are not permitted on motorways and provisional license holders must be accompanied. Adjusting speed for conditions and not tailgating is vital for motorway safety.
What commonly confuses foreign drivers in England?
Aspects foreign drivers visiting England often find perplexing include:
- Driving on the left side of the road.
- Roundabout right-of-way rules.
- Overtaking on the right.
- Low speed limits in urban areas.
- Narrow country roads with stone walls/hedges.
- hitting an animal in the road.
- Sharp turn cut-offs.
- Busy, complicated intersections.
- Yellow box junction restrictions.
However, most foreign drivers adjust after a short orientation period. Refreshing your knowledge of the Highway Code rules, planning routes carefully and staying alert will help minimize confusion.
Conclusion
While driving in England has some unique challenges and takes adjustment for foreign visitors, it does not need to be excessively difficult. With preparation and attentiveness, England’s roads can be navigated smoothly. Driving defensively, obeying local regulations, using navigation aids and staying calm are key to enjoyable driving in England for residents and tourists alike.