As the new year begins, drivers in the UK will face a series of road rule changes that could impact safety, compliance, and expenses. These updates have already started taking effect, indicating an ongoing evolution of regulations for motorists.
Richard Evans, the head of technical services at webuyanycar, has compiled a list of the most significant modifications to driving laws in 2026 that drivers should be aware of.
Starting from the beginning of the year, a revised electricity price cap of £1,758 has been implemented and will remain in place until the end of March 2026. This adjustment, amounting to a 0.2% price increase according to energy regulator Ofgem, will result in slightly higher home charging costs for electric vehicle (EV) owners.
The daily London Congestion Charge has been raised from £15 to £18 for same-day payment and from £17.50 to £21 for payment within three days. This recent change represents one of the most substantial increases in recent years, leading to higher expenses for individuals driving into or through central London.
EV drivers are now required to pay the London Congestion Charge. However, fully electric vehicles benefit from a 25% discount when enrolled in Auto Pay, reducing the daily fee to £13.50. Failure to pay will result in a significant £180 penalty.
The upcoming Fuel Finder scheme, set to launch in early 2026 after a delay, will compel petrol stations across the UK to disclose real-time fuel prices. This initiative aims to assist drivers in comparing costs and locating the most cost-effective fuel options nearby.
In early 2026, learner drivers will be evaluated on their understanding of CPR and defibrillator usage during theory exams. This adjustment aims to improve emergency awareness and road safety.
Significant changes are anticipated in the driving test booking system in spring 2026. Learners will be required to provide at least 10 working days’ notice for test cancellations or rescheduling. There is also a proposal, under consultation, for learners to wait a minimum of six months before taking a test as part of the government’s broader road safety strategy.
Effective from April 1, 2026, electric vehicles priced below £50,000 will no longer be classified as “luxury” items for road tax purposes, up from the previous threshold of £40,000. This change benefits zero-emission cars, while petrol and diesel vehicles remain unaffected.
Digital driving licenses are set to be introduced in 2026 through the GOV.UK Wallet platform, with a planned rollout in the summer. This innovative system will allow drivers to access their licenses via a mobile application, enhancing identity verification and renewal processes.
The freeze on fuel duty at 52.95p per litre, inclusive of the 5p reduction, will continue until September 2026 before returning to the previous rate of 57.95p per litre by March 2027. Subsequently, the discount will be phased out, with fuel duty expected to increase annually in line with inflation.
The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, launched in January 2024, sets targets for increasing the percentage of zero-emission vehicle sales in the UK. By 2026, manufacturers are required to meet quotas of 33% for new car sales and 24% for vans.
The Automated Vehicles (AV) Act, effective since May 2024, lays the groundwork for autonomous vehicles on British roads starting from 2026. While this change won’t immediately alter daily driving routines for motorists, it signals a significant long-term shift in road usage and regulation.
Richard emphasized the importance of staying informed about the evolving driving rules and regulations in 2026 to ensure the safety and compliance of all road users. Keeping up with these changes is not just a legal obligation but a shared responsibility that benefits everyone on the road.