In 2026, a significant overhaul of driving regulations is set to commence across the United Kingdom, prompting a crucial warning for all motorists to prepare. These changes will affect various aspects of driving, from licence formats to taxation policies for electric vehicles, reshaping the cost and enforcement landscape for car owners.
Key Driving Law and Rule Changes for 2026
Carwow has compiled an essential list of confirmed reforms and proposed safety measures that drivers must be aware of. This mix of updates aims to modernise the system, enhance safety, and adapt to evolving technologies, potentially impacting how closely rules are monitored and what it costs to operate a vehicle.
Digital Driving Licences Begin Rollout
Driving licences are transitioning towards a digital format, with a full rollout anticipated by 2027. While physical cards will remain valid, drivers are advised to ensure their online details—including address, medical information, and entitlements—are up to date to prevent any enforcement issues.
Learner Drivers Face New Test Booking Rules
From Spring 2026, learner drivers will encounter stricter regulations for test bookings. They must provide at least 10 working days' notice to cancel or reschedule a driving test. Additionally, instructors will no longer be permitted to book tests on behalf of learners, with limits on rescheduling designed to promote fairness and safeguard personal data.
Increased Enforcement on MOT, Tax, and Vehicle Checks
Authorities, including the police, are ramping up the use of automated number plate recognition cameras to detect untaxed vehicles or those without a valid MOT. Motorists should keep their MOT, tax, and registration details current to avoid penalties and potential insurance complications.
Electric Car Tax Integrated into the System
Electric cars registered from 1 April 2025 will no longer be entirely tax-free, with standard road tax charges applying from the second year of ownership. Starting April 2026, the expensive car supplement threshold for zero-emission vehicles increases from £40,000 to £50,000, meaning fewer EV drivers will incur the additional charge.
However, further reforms are under discussion. While pay-per-mile charging for electric and hybrid vehicles has been proposed as a long-term replacement for fuel duty, Carwow polling indicates driver scepticism, with only 37% of respondents deeming such a system fair, reflecting concerns over rising costs as EVs become mainstream.
Fuel Duty and Company Car Tax Adjustments
Fuel duty is scheduled to rise from September 2026, marking the end of the longstanding 5p-per-litre reduction. Company car tax will also change from April 2026, with electric cars moving from a 3% to 4% rate, while high-emission vehicles could face rates as high as 37%.
Motability Scheme Updates
Luxury cars are being phased out of the Motability scheme. From July 2026, VAT and insurance costs are set to increase on Advance Payment vehicles, although Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles will remain exempt from these changes.
London Congestion Charge Increase
Since 2 January 2026, the London Congestion Charge has risen to £18 per day, or £21 if paid late. Discounts for electric vehicles have been reduced, with EVs now receiving 25% off, while vans and HGVs benefit from a 50% discount.
Recent Carwow polling reveals strong opposition to this adjustment, with 81% of drivers considering the £18 daily charge unfair. Nearly half (47%) report that rising tolls and charges have already led them to avoid specific areas or routes, highlighting how cost pressures are influencing driving behaviour.
Euro 7 Emissions Standards from November
From November 2026, all new cars and vans must comply with Euro 7 emissions standards, aimed at reducing pollution and improving air quality across the UK.
Driving Theory Test Content Evolution
Learner drivers will encounter new theory test questions focused on CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator, designed to enhance emergency response skills among new motorists.
Self-Driving Vehicles May Appear on UK Roads
Drivers might begin to see self-driving vehicles in operation during 2026. Any autonomous vehicles will be required to meet stringent safety standards before being permitted on public roads.
Carwow research indicates that most drivers remain cautious, with 51% stating they would not feel comfortable riding in a driverless car, though confidence is gradually improving compared to last year. Attitudes vary by location, with London drivers showing more openness to the technology than those in rural areas.
Consultations on Potential Future Changes
Alongside the confirmed updates, the government is consulting on several road safety measures that could shape driving practices in the future. While these proposals are not yet law, they signal potential directions for reform.
Areas under review include:
- Tougher drink-driving rules, particularly for new drivers.
- Mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over 70.
- Changes to the learning process, such as introducing a minimum learning period before taking a practical test.
- Stricter penalties for everyday offences like not wearing a seatbelt.
- Enhanced action against uninsured vehicles and illegal number plates.
Staying informed about these developments is essential for all UK drivers to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape effectively and avoid unforeseen penalties.
