United Kingdom

Driving schools in United Kingdom

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£1,500–£2,500Typical cost
~45Typical lessons needed
£23Theory exam fee
Data sourced from Driver and Vehicle Standards AgencyDVSA · Last updated

Cities in United Kingdom

3 cities

  • London

  • Manchester

  • Birmingham

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United Kingdom practice questions

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United Kingdom

Driving rules & facts

  1. Drive on the Left

    The UK drives on the left side of the road. Overtake on the right. Roundabouts flow clockwise. This applies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

  2. Drink-Drive Limits

    England, Wales & NI: 80 mg alcohol per 100 ml blood (0.08% BAC). Scotland: 50 mg per 100 ml blood (0.05% BAC). Penalties include unlimited fines, minimum 12-month driving ban, and up to 6 months in prison. The safest approach is zero alcohol when driving.

  3. Seatbelts Mandatory

    Seatbelts must be worn by all occupants (front and rear) where fitted. Driver responsible for passengers under 14. Children must use appropriate car seats until 12 years old or 135 cm tall. Fine: up to £500.

  4. MOT Test Required

    All vehicles over 3 years old must pass an annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test. Covers roadworthiness: brakes, lights, tyres, emissions, steering, suspension. Driving without a valid MOT is an offence (fine up to £1,000). MOT history is publicly searchable.

  5. Mobile Phones Prohibited

    It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving, including at traffic lights or in a queue. Penalty: 6 points + £200 fine. Hands-free is permitted but can still lead to prosecution for careless driving. New drivers risk losing their licence.

  6. Compulsory Insurance

    All vehicles used on public roads must have at least third-party motor insurance. Driving without insurance: 6–8 penalty points, unlimited fine, possible vehicle seizure. Police use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) to detect uninsured vehicles.

How to get your driving license in United Kingdom

Everything you need to know about enrolling in a driving school and getting your B license in United Kingdom.

Typical cost

£1,500–£2,500

Total driving school cost including lessons and materials

Prices vary by school, location, and number of lessons needed.

Typical lessons needed

~45

60-minute lessons on average

Mandatory theory hours

No mandatory hours.

You can study independently and take the exam when ready.

Mandatory practical hours

No mandatory hours.

Your instructor will recommend how many lessons you need.

License requirements in United Kingdom

Minimum age17 years old
Theory exam fee£23
Car license categoryB
Driving sideLeft (drive on the left)
Learner/provisional licenseYes, required before driving
Accompanied drivingYes, learner must be accompanied
Online theory studyYes, available online

Theory test languages

The DVSA theory test is available in these languages:

  • English
  • Welsh

Tips for choosing a driving school in United Kingdom

  1. Compare prices from at least 3 schools before enrolling. The cheapest option is not always the best — check what is included in the package.
  2. Ask schools about their pass rates. A higher pass rate often indicates better instruction quality.
  3. If United Kingdom's official language is not your first language, ask if the school offers instruction or materials in your language.

Source: Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency · Last updated:

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