Driving

Road Rules

Unlike many countries, we drive on the left in the UK. You should obtain a copy of the Highway Code, available at AA and RAC outlets, and in many bookshops.

All drivers must wear seatbelts and passengers must wear them where fitted. Car seats or appropriate restraints are compulsory for children. Motorcyclists must wear a helmet.

See the Department of Transport website for full details of the legal requirements for drivers.

Driving Licence and Insurance

A non-UK driving licence is valid in Britain for up to 12 months from the time of your last entry into the country. Make sure you're adequately insured.

Maps

Finding your way around London with a pocket atlas or similar guide. One of these will make London's complex road network much more navigable. Buy a Collin's Pocket Atlas now

Car Rental

Driving and Car Hire in London for Disabled People

Mobilise aims to promote and protect the welfare of disabled people and to promote their personal mobility. More information can be found on the Mobilise website.

There are car hire agencies in London that specialise in adapted vehicles for people with disabilities. For details, see Department for Transport/Automobility

Congestion Charge

In 2003 London became the world's first major city to introduce a Congestion Charge to reduce the flow of traffic into its centre from Monday to Friday. While the number of cars entering the congestion zone has fallen, driving in London can still be slow. Drivers with disabilities are eligible for exemption from the Congestion Charge.

Parking

Parking can be difficult, particularly in Central London. Restrictions typically apply between 8.30am and 6.30pm Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to 1.30pm on Saturdays. Many of London's roads operate 'Pay & Display' schemes, which are expensive for longer stays.

In addition, there are car parking companies operating in London with properties throughout the city. Westminster City Council car parks has 16 sites situated throughout Central London. Visit the Westminster City Council car parks website for details. NCP runs around 100 car parks in London. See the NCP website for more information.

Parking Fines

If your vehicle is parked in contravention of parking or traffic restrictions, you will be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice. These parking fines are administered by the London borough in which the offence occurs. The fines are generally between £40 and £50 if paid within 14 days, rising to an average of £100 for late payments. For more information contact the relevant London borough.

Parking for Disabled Drivers

The Blue Badge scheme provides a range of parking benefits for eligible disabled people plus exemption from the Congestion Charge.

The scheme operates throughout the UK. In London, the following boroughs operate schemes that vary from the national scheme: City of Westminster, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Corporation of London and the London Borough of Camden (south of the Euston Road). It is essential to check restrictions in these boroughs.

Blue Badge concessions only apply to on-street parking and include free use of parking meters and Pay & Display bays. Badge holders may also be exempt from limits on parking times imposed on others. Your local authority is responsible for issuing Blue Badge parking permits.

See Direct Government/Blue Badge for further information.

NCP, who run many of Central London's commercial parking areas, offer a small number of disabled spaces in their London car parks. The spaces are charged at full rates. Telephone +44 (0)870 606 7050 for more information and locations.