London by Car and Motorcycle

Driving Licences and Insurance

It is legal to drive in Britain with a valid driving licence from outside the UK for up to 12 months from the time of arrival.
Before arriving it is essential to ensure that you are adequately insured and that your vehicle is roadworthy.

For additional information, visit the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency website

Legal Requirements

Highway Code

If you do plan to drive in Britain, you should obtain a copy of the Highway Code, which details the rules of the road including street signs. It is available at AA and RAC outlets as well as many bookshops and Tourist Information Centres.

Getting to London via Motorways

London is easy to reach using the UK's motorway network – with the M1, M2, M3, M4, M11, M20, M23, M25 and M40 motorways in or near London – as well as a multitude of major A-roads. All of London's motorways intersect the M25 orbital motorway. There are good road connections with London's airports and relevant ports.

Car Hire

The points of arrival are also well served by car hire companies and you can book in advance with companies like Holiday Autos. Always use a reputable car hire company. 

Eurotunnel and Ferry

You can bring a car or motorcycle into the UK via Eurotunnel or ferry.

Congestion Charge

The Congestion Charge applies to all drivers in Central London between 7 am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

The charging zone is clearly marked by traffic signs and road markings. It covers the following areas: Bayswater, Notting Hill, North and South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Brompton, Belgravia, Pimlico, Victoria, St. James's, Waterloo, Borough, City of London, Clerkenwell, Holborn, Finsbury, Bloomsbury, Soho, Mayfair, and parts of Marylebone.

Motorcyles and electric cars are exempt from the charge. Disabled drivers are also exempt but must apply in advance.

Find out more on our driving in London page.