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Expat Exchange - Getting a Driver's License in Scotland
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Glasgow, Scotland


Getting a Driver's License in Scotland

By Joshua Wood, LPC

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Summary: Here's a primer on how to get your driver's license in Scotland.

Sometimes when you're new to a country a task like getting your driver's license can make you feel like you're 16 years old again trying to pass your driver's test. Here's an overview of the process of getting your driver's license in Scotland.

In Scotland, as part of the United Kingdom, the driving requirements for foreigners depend on where they are from. If you hold a valid driving license from a European Economic Area (EEA) country, you can drive in the UK until you turn 70, or for three years after becoming a resident, whichever is longer. If you have a license from a non-EEA country, you can drive in the UK for up to 12 months. After this period, you will need to exchange your license or pass the UK driving test.

For those from designated countries (including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, South Korea, and the USA), you can exchange your license for a UK one up to five years after becoming a UK resident. If your license is not from a designated country, you will need to take a UK driving test to get a UK license.

It's important to note that you must have insurance to drive a vehicle in the UK, and the vehicle must also be registered. If you bring a vehicle from abroad, you may need to pay vehicle tax and meet certain environmental and safety standards.

There are no specific regional variations within Scotland or the rest of the UK regarding these requirements. The rules are set at a national level and apply uniformly across the country.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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Glasgow, Scotland

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