Renting a car in the United Kingdom (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: Visitors from outside the UK may drive in Great Britain on a foreign licence for 12 months from last entry. The minimum licence age for a car is 17. Motor insurance is compulsory.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Foreign driving licence acceptedRenting a car as a visitor | A visitor who lives outside the United Kingdom and is temporarily in Great Britain may drive a car with a Convention driving permit or a domestic driving permit issued outside the UK for 12 months from the date of their last entry into the UK. [1] |
| International driving permitRenting a car as a visitor | The Order accepts either a Convention driving permit or a domestic driving permit issued outside the UK, so it does not require an international driving permit for a visitor whose domestic licence covers the vehicle. [1] |
| Minimum age set by lawRenting a car as a visitor | A person under 17 is disqualified from holding or obtaining a licence to drive a car (a 'small vehicle'). Other motor vehicles have higher ages (for example 21). [2] |
| Compulsory insuranceRenting a car as a visitor | A person must not use a motor vehicle on a road or other public place, or cause or permit another person to use it, unless a policy of insurance that meets the requirements of Part VI is in force. Doing so is an offence. [3] |
| Statutory rules for rental contractsRenting a car as a visitor | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Sources
- legislation.gov.uk: The Motor Vehicles (International Circulation) Order 1975 (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- legislation.gov.uk: Road Traffic Act 1988, section 101: Disqualification of persons under age (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- legislation.gov.uk: Road Traffic Act 1988, section 143: Users of motor vehicles to be insured (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.