Driving in the UK on a Foreign Licence: Ultimate Guide 2025

Driving in the UK on a Foreign Licence can be straightforward when you’re equipped with the right information. Whether you’re a tourist, a temporary resident, or moving permanently, this guide by UK Bloom will walk you through everything you need to know about using your foreign driving licence in the UK.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult the UK Government website or a qualified immigration/legal expert for tailored advice.

Driving in the UK on a Foreign Licence

The UK permits foreign licence holders to drive for a limited time based on their residency status and the country where their licence was issued.

Visitors/Tourists: Can drive for up to 12 months on their valid licence.
Residents: Rules depend on the country that issued the licence.

For full details, refer to the UK Government driving abroad guide.

Licence Validity by Country

European Economic Area (EEA)

If your licence was issued in an EEA country, you can drive in the UK until you’re 70 or for 3 years after becoming a resident, whichever is longer.

Designated Countries

The UK has agreements with 15+ countries allowing licence exchange:

Australia
Canada
Hong Kong
Japan
New Zealand
Singapore
South Korea
South Africa
Switzerland
And others

You can drive for 12 months after becoming a resident. After that, you must exchange your licence.

Non-Designated Countries

If your licence is from a non-designated country (e.g., India, Pakistan, China), you can drive for 12 months only. After that, you must:

Apply for a provisional licence
Pass theory and practical tests

Read more about applying for a UK driving licence. Latest News.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your licence.

Required: For some EU and non-EU countries if your licence is not in English.
Where to Get One: Your home country’s licensing authority.
Validity: Usually 12 months.

Check IDP requirements by country here.

Exchanging Your Foreign Licence

Eligibility to Exchange

You can exchange your licence if it’s from a designated country or EEA and still valid. You must:

Be a UK resident
Apply within 5 years of becoming a resident

How to Exchange

Complete D1 form from DVLA
Include your original licence
Pay the fee (£43 as of 2025)
Post documents to DVLA Swansea

Processing time: 3–6 weeks

Steps to Get a UK Driving Licence

For non-exchangeable licences:

Apply for a provisional licence – UK Provisional Licence Application
Pass theory test – Covers road signs, rules, hazard perception
Take driving lessons (optional but recommended)
Pass practical driving test

Costs vary, but budget around £150–£300 for tests and applications.

Tourists Driving in the UK

If you’re visiting the UK:

You can drive for 12 months from the date of entry
Your licence must be valid and in English (or with a certified translation)
Carry your passport, IDP (if required), and insurance

Rental companies may impose age or licence duration restrictions.

Temporary Residents and Students

If you’re in the UK for studies or temporary work:

You can use your foreign licence for up to 12 months
Consider exchanging it if eligible
After 12 months, you’ll need to apply for a UK licence

International students can get more details at our UK Study Visa Guide.

Car Insurance and Legal Requirements

Insurance Is Mandatory

Driving without valid insurance is illegal. Choose from:

Third Party (minimum required)
Third Party, Fire and Theft
Comprehensive (recommended for new drivers)

Use comparison sites like Compare the Market or Confused.com to find the best quotes.

MOT and Vehicle Tax

If you own a car, ensure:

MOT certificate (annually after 3 years old)
Vehicle tax paid
Car is registered with the DVLA

Driving Rules You Must Know

Drive on the left side
Seatbelts required by all passengers
No mobile use unless hands-free
Default speed limits:
- 30 mph in urban areas
- 60 mph on single carriageways
- 70 mph on motorways
Drink-drive limit is 80mg/100ml in England, 50mg in Scotland

Refer to the UK Highway Code for complete rules.