With 2026 in full swing, UK motorists face several significant driving law and rule changes that will impact how you drive, what you’ll pay, and how you navigate the road. 

We’ve compiled a list of some of the biggest changes coming into effect this year, so that you can stay informed and road legal this year.

 

Driving Law + Rule Changes in 2026 at a Glance...

Here is a brief snapshot of some of the most significant rule changes being introduced this year: 

  • Higher costs for petrol/diesel drivers as fuel duty freeze ends 
  • Learner drivers must now book their own driving tests 
  • Questions added to the theory test 
  • Tax increases for luxury EVs 

That’s not all that’s changing – take a look at some of the biggest developments that could make 2026 a real turning point for UK drivers...

 

Fuel Duty Freeze Coming to an End in September 2026

The fuel duty freeze is ending in September 2026, meaning that fuel duty will likely rise in line with inflation each year. 

This could spell an increase in running costs for petrol and diesel cars, which you should keep in mind if you want to budget effectively all year round. 

 

Tax Increase from April 2026 for Benefit-in-Kind (BiK)

From April 2026, Benefit in Kind (BiK) rates for electric company cars will rise, meaning company car drivers can expect to pay a bit more. 

BiK is the tax someone pays when they buy a car through a company salary sacrifice scheme, with the rates depending on the vehicle’s CO2 emissions.

 

Higher Threshold for Expensive EV Tax from April 2026

As of April 2026, the threshold for zero-emission electric cars paying the Expensive Car Supplement (ECS) will rise from £40,000 to £50,000. 

This luxury tax change is being brought in to limit ownership costs for certain EV owners. 

This ECS threshold stays the same for cars that aren’t fully electric.

 

Learners Must Book Their Own Driving Test from Spring 2026

As of spring 2026, learner drivers will have to book their own practical driving tests – and will only be able to change the test date or location twice if needed. 

That means you’ll have to give at least 10 workings days’ notice to cancel or change your driving test, as instructors won’t be able to book one for you. 

Expect rescheduling options to be more limited as a result – and please note that if changing the location of your test, it has to be changed to a nearby test centre. 

This change is being brought in in an effort to protect your personal data, but also to reduce the number of last-minute cancellations.

 

CPR & First-aid Questions to be Included in Theory Tests

To be introduced early in 2026, there will be expanded questions on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), as well as on the use of AEDs (automated external defibrillators). 

This will give theory test takers the chance to learn practical skills that could prove very useful in an emergency.

 

Further Incentive to Stay on Top of Your Tax, MOT and Registration

Automated cameras (ANPR) will now be used by authorities like the police, serving as a reminder to always have valid insurance and to keep your MOT, tax and registration up to date.

 

Driving Licences Going Digital Into 2027

With the full rollout expected by 2027, driving licences will be moving to a digital format. 

Your physical card will still be valid, though, you just need to make sure your details are accurate and up to date online, or you could face a fine.

 

Luxury Cars to Be Removed from the Motability Scheme

You can no longer buy luxury cars on the Motability scheme, from such manufacturers as BMW and Mercedes, in an effort to raise the number of British-built vehicles being bought through the scheme. 

As of July 2026, you can also expect VAT and insurance costs to increase on Advance Payment vehicles. 

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles on the scheme remain zero-rated for VAT and exempt from Insurance Premium Tax (IPT).

 

Congestion Charges Increase as of January 2026

Already in effect, the London congestion charge has risen, with discounts for EVs also being reduced.  

The 100% Cleaner Vehicle Discount also ended in December, with electric car drivers and electric van, HGV, and quadricycle drivers instead being able to get a 25% and 50% discount on daily charges if registered on Auto Pay, respectively.

 

November 2026 Sees Stricter Rules for Euro 7 Emissions Standards

All new cars and vans must meet Euro 7 emissions standards as of November 2026. 

This change is being brought in to reduce pollution and improve air quality in the UK.

 

Other Likely Driving Rule Changes Which Could Come into Effect This Year...

Alongside these driving law developments that are already in place, there are other key changes which may come into effect this year and beyond, including: 

You can see some of the proposed changes to penalties for motoring offences that are being discussed over on the gov.uk website. 

 

Do These Changes Affect You? Here’s What to Do Next...

To stay one step ahead of the curve, it pays to check your licence and personal details are accurate – in both their physical and digital forms. 

Keep your MOT, tax and insurance up to date to avoid any penalties. 

If you’re just learning to drive, book your test yourself and keep possible booking delays in mind. 

For EV drivers, stay informed about changing taxation and charging costs so that you’re never out of the loop. 

In short, 2026 brings some of the biggest changes motorists have seen in years – so stay informed to stay compliant!