Military Life
European Road Guide 2023: Road Rules U.K.
Stripes Staff
August 7, 2023
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Living in the U.K. or plan to drive through the area soon? Here are key rules you need to know.
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Those stationed in England are required to attain USAFE Form 435 driver’s licenses. Valid stateside driver’s licenses, proof of insurance and vehicle registration are also needed. Not stationed in England but driving there during your travels International driving permits are not required if visiting for less than 12 months, but make sure to carry your valid U.S. license and, if applicable, your U.S. Forces license.
CELLPHONE USE WHILE DRIVING
It is illegal and unsafe to use a handheld cellphone when driving, except with a hands-free device.
WARNING: Even whilst using a handsfree device, research has shown you could still be distracted and not in full control of your vehicle. If observed by law enforcement, you could be prosecuted.
CHILD SAFETY
The U.K. follows the i-Size regulation concurrent with ECE R44/04 and requires EU-approved safety seats marked with an “E” inside a circle. Visit www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules to ensure you select compliant car seats.
Note: U.K. spec cars require U.K. spec car seats while U.S. spec cars accommodate both U.S. and U.K. spec car seats.
COMPULSORY SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Your vehicle should carry a reflective vest/jacket, first-aid kit and EC regulation warning triangle. It is highly recommended that you also have a fire extinguisher and extra headlight bulbs.
CONGESTION CHARGES
To help ease traffic jams, drivers are required to pay a congestion charge before driving in the Central London Congestion Charging Zone during weekdays (except public holidays) between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. For information, zone locations, or to pay online, visit the official site at www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge.
DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED
Drivers are considered intoxicated if their blood alcohol limit is 0.08 in England and Wales or .03 in Scotland. According to U.S. Air Force regulations, drivers with blood alcohol levels over .05 are considered to be impaired.
FINES
When drivers commit moving (and some parking) violations and receive citations either on or off base, information is sent to U.S. Forces security personnel, and points are assessed against your DFP based on citation severity. For a table of specific offenses, corresponding assessed point values and suspension lengths, refer to the current Mildenhall 31-218 found at www.e-publishing.af.mil.
U.K. Traffic Law allows passing on the stretch of road you are on
The vehicle you wish to pass is traveling at less than 30 MPH /48.28 kph
It is safe to do so (visibility past car, road layout, experience of driving in the U.K).
Urban Roads: 48 kph
Non-Urban Roads: 96 kph
Motorways/Expressways: 112 kph