Driving in the UK: tips for students
Driving in the UK: tips for students
If you want to drive in the UK, you must make sure you follow the law.
You must have a driving licence that is valid in the UK. If your licence was issued outside Great Britain, check the Government website to see if you can use it and for how long. The rules depend on the country that issued your licence.
If you have a car, it must be safe and legal. You must have insurance and vehicle tax. Most cars also need an MOT when they are 3 years old, and then every year after that. Driving without a valid licence or insurance is a criminal offence.
In the UK, you drive on the left. You should learn the rules in the Highway Code before you drive.
Do not drink or take drugs before driving. Do not use a hand-held mobile phone while driving, and do not drive faster than the speed limit. These can lead to fines, penalty points, a driving ban, or prison in serious cases.
If you have an accident, you must stop. If there is damage or injury, you must give your details. If you do not give your details at the time, you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours.
Hiring a car in the UK
If you want to hire a car in the UK, you must show a valid driving licence. If your licence is from another country, check first that you can legally use it in the UK. Insurance and vehicle tax are normally included by the rental company, but you should always check this before you book.
Before you sign the agreement, check what the insurance covers, whether you must pay an excess for damage, and whether there are extra charges for young drivers, fuel, mileage or extra drivers. When you collect the car, check it carefully for any damage and make sure it is recorded.
Car rental firms near Southampton city centre
If you want to hire a car near Southampton city centre, you can try these companies:
- Enterprise – enterprise.co.uk
- Hertz – hertz.co.uk
- Europcar – europcar.co.uk
Before you book, check the price, insurance, excess, fuel policy and any extra charges.
For more information, see UKCISA and GOV.UK guidance on driving in Great Britain.
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