How to Get a Driver's License in England
Summary: Here's a primer on how to get your driver's license in England.
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 England.
In England, the driving requirements for foreigners depend on the country where they obtained their driving license. If a foreigner has a driving license from a country in the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, they can drive in the UK for as long as their license is valid. However, if they have a license from a country outside the EU/EEA, they can only drive small vehicles for up to 12 months from the time they became a resident. After 12 months, they will need to take a driving test to get a UK license.
If a foreigner has a license from a 'designated country' (including Andorra, Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, and Zimbabwe), they can exchange their license for a UK one up to 5 years after becoming a UK resident.
It's important to note that the rules apply across the whole of England and are not specific to any city, state, or region. However, driving conditions and rules of the road may vary, so it's important for foreigners to familiarize themselves with local driving customs and regulations.
Additionally, all drivers in England must have proper insurance for their vehicle. If a foreigner plans to bring their own vehicle, they must also ensure it meets UK road standards.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- UK Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in UK
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in UK
- Best Places to Live in UK
- Real Estate in UK
- Guide to Real Estate in UK
- Pros & Cons of Living in UK
- Cost of Living in UK
- Homeschooling in England
- How to Enroll Your Children in School in England
- Educational System in England
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to England
- 2024 Guide to Living in UK
- Pros and Cons of Living in UK 2024