Southport, EnglandDriving in Southport
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Southport.
1. Understanding the Driving Rules
Driving in the UK, including Southport, is on the left-hand side of the road. This can be a significant adjustment for those from countries where driving is on the right. It's crucial to familiarise yourself with the UK's Highway Code, which outlines all the rules and regulations for driving in the country.
2. Car Recommendation
Southport is a relatively small town, so a compact car would be suitable for navigating the streets and finding parking. However, if you plan on exploring the countryside or taking long trips, a larger, more comfortable car might be more suitable. Diesel cars are more fuel-efficient for long journeys, while petrol cars are better for short, city drives.
3. Parking in Southport
Southport has a good amount of parking, both on-street and in car parks. However, during peak times and events, finding a parking spot can be challenging. It's always a good idea to plan your journey and check parking options in advance. Parking fees vary depending on the location and duration, but they are generally affordable.
4. Driving with an International License
As a foreigner, you can drive in the UK with an international driving permit (IDP) for up to 12 months from the date you last entered the country. After this period, you will need to apply for a UK driving license.
5. Getting a UK Driving License
To get a UK driving license, you will need to apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The process involves a theory test and a practical driving test. If you're from a country with a driving agreement with the UK, you might be able to exchange your foreign license for a UK one without taking a test.
6. Be Prepared for Roundabouts
Roundabouts are common in the UK, and they can be confusing for those not used to them. Remember to give way to traffic coming from the right and signal correctly when exiting the roundabout.
7. Speed Limits
Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and the area. In built-up areas, the limit is usually 30 mph, while on single carriageways it's 60 mph, and on dual carriageways and motorways it's 70 mph. Always check for signs indicating the speed limit.
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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
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.
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