Driving & Public Transport
In the UK about 90% of all passenger journeys are made by road, mainly in private cars.
Vehicles travel on the left-hand side of the road and overtake on the right. It is mandatory for drivers and their passengers to wear seat belts where fitted. There are laws, which are strictly enforced against driving under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving. The minimum driving age is 17.
To take a British driving test you must normally be resident in the UK. The test includes both written and practical components, and you must hold a provisional license before taking the tests.
European Union citizens can drive in the UK on their own licenses, or exchange them for a British one. Citizens of non-EU countries can drive for up to 12 months on the license issued by their own country. Within this time they must apply for a provisional British license and take a British driving test if they wish to continue driving in the UK. Vehicles and drivers must be covered by an insurance policy.
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
