Driving License in United Kingdom for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in United Kingdom with a foreign license?
Yes, for 12 months. After that, you must convert to a United Kingdom license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: United Kingdom Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) |
| Official Test Language | English, Welsh |
| Grace Period | 12 months |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Not required |
| Total Cost | 43£ (exchange) or £400-800 (full test with lessons) |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks for exchange, 2-6 months for test |
Eligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
Post-Brexit: EU licenses valid for 12 months, then exchange required.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
USA: Can drive for 12 months, then full test required.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Can drive for 12 months on foreign license. Then must take UK test.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license for 12 months. Must exchange or take test if staying.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries (with restrictions post-Brexit), Designated countries: Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Zimbabwe
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, China, India, most Asian/African countries - full test required
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport or UK immigration documents
- ✓Proof of address
- ✓Current driving license
- ✓Passport photos
- ✓D1 form (for exchange)
- ✓Provisional license (if taking test)
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 43£ |
| Medical Exam | Not required for standard applications |
| Translation | Not required for designated countries |
| Total Estimated | 43£ (exchange) or £400-800 (full test with lessons) |
Tips for Expats in United Kingdom
- 💡Test is in English - native advantage
- 💡Drive on the LEFT side - major adjustment for most
- 💡Hazard perception test is video-based and unique
- 💡Theory test valid for 2 years
- 💡Manual license covers automatic; automatic doesn't cover manual
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I drive in the UK with my foreign license?
Do I need to take a test if I'm from the EU?
What's special about the UK hazard perception test?
Should I get manual or automatic license?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your United Kingdom driving test in English.