Important things to note
Give way to drivers on the right when approaching
roundabouts. Use the outside (right-hand) lane to overtake on
motorways. When driving in London, be aware that there is a
congestion charge. Be aware of fixed speed cameras on various
routes all over the UK.
Driving culture in the United KingdomWhat are the roads like
in the UK?
In cities and built up areas the roads tend to be fairly wide.
However, in more rural areas and the countryside, the roads
can be quite narrow. Motorways are high capacity roads that
are usually split into three lanes. A-roads are main roads,
usually dual carriageways; and B-roads tend to carry much less
traffic as these are local routes.
What are the drivers like in the UK?
On the whole, UK drivers are reasonably courteous but
are prone to flashing their lights, beeping their horn or
simply shaking their head in the case of another driver making
a genuine error or causing a hazard.
What are the best times to drive?
Weekends and during weekdays outside rush hour is the best
time to be on the roads. Rush hour varies from city to city
but generally stems between 7:00 and 9:30 in the morning and
16:00 and 19:00 in the evening.
What are the driving laws?
Be at least 17 and have a full driver's licence (provisional
licences not accepted). Have at least third party insurance.
Do not have a BAC exceeding 0.8g/l in England, Wales and
Northern Ireland and not exceeding 0.5g/l in Scotland. Ensure
front and rear passengers wear seat belts at all times, where
fitted. Seat all children in EU-approved car seats until they
are 12 years old or 135cm tall. From 1st October 2015, it is
illegal in England and Wales to smoke in a car carrying under
18 year olds.
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