Three new UK driving rules and laws are now in force after June 2026, affecting MOTs, driving tests, and advisory fuel rates. The changes, introduced by the DVLA, DVSA, and the Labour Party government, impact everything from annual MOT checks to fuel reimbursement rates for drivers.
MOT Changes for Electric Vans
From 1 June 2026, the government has removed restrictive regulations on larger electric vans, a key win for the Zero Emission Van Plan. Previously treated more like HGVs, electric vans weighing between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes will now be subject to Class 7 MOT rules instead of heavy vehicle testing. These vehicles will require their first MOT three years after registration, rather than the first year as before.
Additionally, 3.5-4.25 tonne zero emission vans will move into GB Drivers' hours rules, removing the need for a tachograph and the existing 'distance from base' limit. Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said: "Businesses will now no longer face unnecessary red tape when they make the switch, cutting costs, reducing bureaucracy and driving growth up and down the country." Toby Poston, chief executive of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, added: "Tackling the barriers to large electric van uptake has been a top priority for the BVRLA and our members. Following extensive collaboration between Government and industry, these changes remove major operational hurdles for fleets and unlock a critical part of the UK's transition to zero-emission road transport."
Advisory Fuel Rate Increases
HMRC launched new advisory fuel rates from 1 June 2026 for petrol, diesel, electric car, and LPG vehicle drivers. These rates are used by company car drivers to reimburse employees for business travel or for employees to repay fuel costs for private travel. Petrol engines up to 1,400cc have increased from 12p to 14p per mile, engines between 1,401cc and 2,000cc from 14p to 17p, and engines over 2,000cc from 22p to 26p. Diesel rates are: engines up to 1,600cc rising from 12p to 15p, between 1,601cc and 2,000cc from 13p to 17p, and over 2,000cc from 18p to 23p. Electric home and public charges remain at 7p and 15p respectively.
Driving Test Location Restrictions
From 9 June 2026, the DVSA has limited the number of moves a learner driver can make to a driving test. Learner motorists will now only be able to move their driving test to the three nearest test centres, rather than any test centre across the UK. If you had an existing booking, the new rule applies based on where your test was booked on 9 June 2026, not where you first booked.
