Driving in the UK

Before you drive in the UK there are a few things that you must legally do. These include having a driving license, ensuring your car or motorcycle have a log book, a valid MOT, tax and insurance.

Driving License

If you already hold a non-GB driving license you can use the tool Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence on GOV.UK to see if you can drive in Great Britain on your current license. In some cases you may be able to exchange your current license for a GB license, you need to consider how this affects you if you return to the country that issued your license.

If you do not currently have a driving license from any nation or you are not permitted to drive on your non GB license you can apply for a GB License, if you are eligible. You can find out if you are eligible and Learn to drive a car: step by step  on GOV.UK

If you are in the UK on a Ukraine visa scheme there is a special scheme  Ukrainian driving licence exchange – GOV.UK that you may be eligible for.

V5C Log Book

If you buy a car or motorcycle in the UK you need to apply to be the registered keeper. The V5C logbook is the official registration certificate for all vehicles registered in Great Britain by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. The person you bought the vehicle from should provide you with the V5C so you can transfer the certificate into your name. If they do not have the original document you can Tell DVLA you’ve sold, transferred or bought a vehicle on GOV.UK

Road Tax

All vehicles must be taxed to drive on the road. The amount you pay, if anything, is dependent on your type and class of vehicle. Find out more information about Taxing your vehicle on GOV.UK

Insurance

In Great Britain it is the vehicle that is insured. There are different types of insurance including third party insurance, third party, fire and theft insurance and fully comprehensive insurance. It is important you chose the right car insurance for you and ensure that the policy meets your needs. You can use an insurance comparison website to find the right insurance policy for you.