You need a valid licence that covers the category of vehicle you drive, and you must meet the relevant medical and eyesight standards. A standard Great Britain photocard normally needs renewing every 10 years; from age 70, driving entitlement is normally renewed every three years. Vocational licences, medical licences and Northern Ireland processes may differ.

Photocard renewals · Renewing at 70 or over · Northern Ireland motoring services.

• Insurance: at least the legally required third-party cover when using a vehicle on a road or public place, subject to applicable exceptions.
• Vehicle tax: keep tax status correct; an off-road vehicle may need a SORN.
• MOT: most cars in Great Britain first need a test at three years old, then annually. In Northern Ireland, most cars first require testing at four years old, then annually. Vehicle-type exceptions apply.
• Roadworthiness: an MOT pass is not a promise your vehicle will remain safe. Check tyres, lights and other safety items regularly.

Driving without insurance and driving without a valid MOT are different offences with different consequences; do not assume both automatically result in identical penalties.

Great Britain MOT rules · Northern Ireland test requirements · Daily vehicle safety checks.

For cars not towing, the national speed limit is generally 60 mph on a single carriageway and 70 mph on a dual carriageway or motorway. But posted limits, road conditions and vehicle categories can change what is permitted. Vehicles towing trailers, vans, buses and lorries can have lower limits.

In built-up areas, the usual default is 30 mph in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, but 20 mph on many restricted roads in Wales. Local 20 mph or other signed limits can also apply elsewhere. A speed limit is a maximum, not a recommended driving speed.

Official UK speed-limit table by vehicle type.

It is normally illegal to hold and use a phone or other handheld interactive device while driving, including when stopped at lights or in a queue. This can include checking messages, choosing music or using maps.

There are limited exceptions, such as a genuine 999/112 emergency when stopping is unsafe or impractical, or certain contactless payments in a stationary vehicle. Hands-free systems are not a licence to drive while distracted. The normal fixed penalty for handheld use is £200 and six points, with more serious penalties possible in court.

Official phone-use rules and exceptions.

Mandatory road signs and lawful directions from police officers must be obeyed. Police can require you to stop when safe, and may request your licence, insurance and MOT documents. If you cannot produce requested documents at the roadside, there are rules about providing them later.

Offences can lead to fines, endorsements, disqualification or other action depending on the circumstances. Different rules apply to newly qualified drivers and to some Northern Ireland endorsements.

Being stopped by police · Penalty points explained.