Can International Students Get a UK Driving License?
The short answer is yes, international students in the UK can get a driving license by following specific steps and meeting certain requirements.
Although most international students in the UK get by using public transportation or even walking, some students may still prefer to drive.
In this post, we will highlight all you need to know about getting a UK driving license as an international student.
Key Takeaways
International students can get a UK driving license, but the process depends on your home country and length of stay. Students from certain countries can exchange their foreign license for a UK one without taking a test, while others must apply for a provisional license.
If your home country’s license isn’t exchangeable, you must pass a theory and practical test to obtain a full UK driving license. You must also have a valid student visa and live in the UK for at least 185 days before applying for a UK driving license.
Driving isn’t necessary in many UK cities due to excellent public transport, so you should consider renting a car or using student-friendly travel options instead.
Can International Students Drive in the UK with Their Home License?
Yes, international students can drive in the UK with their home country’s driving license, but the rules vary depending on where the license was issued and how long they plan to stay.
Students from the EU/EEA
If your license was issued in an EU or EEA country, you can drive in the UK until you turn 70 years old or for three years after becoming a UK resident, whichever comes later. After that, you’ll need to exchange it for a UK license.
Students from "designated countries"
Certain countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, and Switzerland, allow you to drive for up to 12 months after arriving in the UK. After that, you must exchange your license or apply for a UK one.
Students from non-designated countries
If your country isn’t on the approved list, you can drive for 12 months but must apply for a provisional UK license and take both the theory and practical tests to continue driving legally.
How Long Can International Students Use Their Home License in the UK?
If you’re staying for less than 12 months, you can use your home license, regardless of country.
If you’re staying for longer than 12 months, check if your license can be exchanged. If not, you’ll need to apply for a UK license.
How to Check If You Can Exchange Your License
Visit the UK government website to see if your country is on the exchange list.
If eligible, apply within five years of becoming a UK resident to swap your license without taking a test.
If your license isn’t exchangeable, you must apply for a provisional UK license, pass a theory test, and complete a practical driving test to get a full UK license.
How to Apply for a UK Driving License as an International Student
The process involves getting a provisional driving license, passing the theory test, and taking a practical driving test. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet these requirements:
You must be at least 17 years old (for cars) or 16 years old (for mopeds).
You must have a valid student visa and have lived in the UK for at least 185 days.
You must not have any medical conditions that prevent safe driving.
Step 2: Apply for a Provisional Driving License
A provisional driving license is required before taking any driving tests. Apply online or by post using the D1 form (available at Post Offices). The processing time for this is roughly 3 weeks, and you need a valid passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
Step 3: Pass the UK Theory Test
The theory test checks your knowledge of UK driving laws.
What’s Included:
Multiple-choice questions on the Highway Code, road signs, and driving laws.
Hazard perception test where you spot potential dangers in video clips.
Passing Score: 43 out of 50 on the multiple-choice section and 44 out of 75 on the hazard perception test.
Step 4: Take the Practical Driving Test
Once you pass the theory test, you can book the practical driving test. You should take driving lessons from a DVSA-approved instructor to improve your chances of passing.
What’s Included:
Eyesight check: (reading a number plate from 20 meters).
Show Me, Tell Me questions about car safety.
General driving test covering different road types and traffic conditions.
Independent driving using either a sat nav or road signs.
Step 5: Receive Your Full UK Driving License
If you pass the practical test, you’ll receive a pass certificate, and your full UK driving license will arrive by mail within three weeks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a UK Drivers License
Here are some popular mistakes international students make when trying to get a UK drivers license.
Some international students assume they need to take a test when they can exchange their home license for a UK one. Make sure you check the UK government's exchange list before applying.
UK law requires valid car insurance to drive legally. Many international students mistakenly assume their home country’s insurance is valid, so always confirm with an insurer before driving.
If you plan to stay in the UK for more than 12 months, you must apply for a UK license before your international one expires. Delaying could mean starting from scratch.
The UK theory test is more detailed than in many countries, covering road rules, signs, and hazard perception. Make sure you study well so you don’t have to rewrite the test multiple times.
Driving in the UK is different. Cars are right-hand drive, and traffic moves on the left side of the road. Many international students make mistakes at roundabouts and junctions because they are unfamiliar with the system.
Many students book the driving test too early without taking enough time to practice. This often leads to failures and having to repeat the test multiple times.
Do You Really Need a Car in the UK?
While having a car can offer convenience, many international students in the UK find it unnecessary. The UK has one of the best public transport networks in the world, so it is easy to get around without a car.
Trains & Underground (Tube/Metro): Fast and efficient for travelling within cities and between regions. Students can get discounted railcards for cheaper fares.
Buses & Trams: Affordable and widely available, with discounted student travel passes in many cities.
Cycling: Many UK cities have dedicated cycling lanes and bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles in London.
Walking: If you live near your university, walking is a cost-effective and healthy way to get around.
If you only need a car occasionally, these options let you enjoy the convenience without the long-term costs.
Ridesharing & Taxis: Services like Uber, Bolt, and local taxis are available in most cities.
Car Rentals: Companies like Zipcar and Enterprise Car Club offer hourly or daily rentals, perfect for road trips or occasional use.
Student Car Sharing: Some universities have car-sharing groups where students split rental costs for weekend trips.
When Does Having a Car Make Sense?
You live in a rural area with limited public transport.
Your university is far from your accommodation, and commuting is difficult.
You frequently travel to remote locations for work or leisure.
You plan to stay in the UK long-term and need a personal vehicle.
FAQs
Can international students get an UK driving license?
Yes, international students can get a UK driving license provided they meet all the requirements and follow the appropriate steps.
How long do you have to live in the UK to get a driving licence?
According to UK government regulations, you have to live in the UK for at least 185 days to get a driver's license.
How much does it cost to get a driving license in the UK?
A provisional license costs £34. The driving test and theory test costs £62 and £23 respectively. This is outside the cost of driving lessons which can go up to £1,000 or more.
Wrapping Up
For international students in the UK, the decision to drive depends on your lifestyle, location, and long-term plans. While getting a UK driving license can offer freedom and flexibility, the country’s efficient public transport, student discounts, and car rental options make owning a car unnecessary for most students.
If you decide to drive, plan ahead, avoid common mistakes, and understand UK road rules to make the process smooth. Whatever you choose, enjoy exploring the UK, whether behind the wheel or from the comfort of a train seat!
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