driving-tips-united-kingdom | Experience Beautiful

Driving Tips in the UK

If you are renting a car in the United Kingdom you might want to check our guide of rules and driving tips in the UK. Whether you are a new or experienced driver these driving tips could still be important to know.

When driving in the UK you have to drive on the left hand side of the road and overtake on the right.
Seat belts should be worn in the front and rear of the vehicle if they are fitted.
Children between 3 – 12 years old and under 135cms in height must use the correct child restraint.
Children under 3 years old must be fitted with the correct child restraint appropriate for their weight.
Drinking and driving: The maximum amount of alcohol allowed in the blood is 0.08 per cent. There is a Penalty of up to £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment and 12 months withdrawal of driving licence if it is a first time offence.
You must at least 17 years of age.
The minimum car insurance that is required, is third party insurance.
Use of mobile phones/devices whilst driving is strictly prohibited.
Motorists must use headlights or front and rear fog lights when visibility is seriously reduced to around less than 100m, use dipped headlights at night in built up areas and use their headlights at night on lit motorways and roads with a speed limit in excess of 30 mph.
Please make sure that you are aware of all these rules and regulations before you start your road trip.

Although it is not compulsory, it is recommended that you carry a warning triangle, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and a reflective jacket to wear in the event of a breakdown. Motorists must not use a warning triangle on a motorway.

If you are driving in London, don’t forget that there is a congestion charge in central London. This toll is charged to anyone who drives or parks their car in central London on weekdays (Monday to Friday excluding public holidays) between 0700 and 1800 hours. Don’t forget that Sixt has branches all over the UK including all major cities and airports ensuring added convenience to all of our customers.