Foreign Driving Licence London: Use Your License in the UK

When you move to London with a foreign driving licence, a driver’s license issued by a country outside the UK. Also known as an international driver’s licence, it lets you drive legally in the UK for a limited time—no need to retake your test right away. If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, your licence is valid for as long as it doesn’t expire. If you’re from anywhere else, you can drive on your foreign licence for up to 12 months after becoming a UK resident.

After that 12-month window, you’ll need to apply for a UK driving licence. The process starts with a D1 application form from the DVLA. You’ll need your current licence, passport, proof of UK address, and a photo. No driving test is required if your licence is from a designated country like Australia, Canada, Japan, or the US—but you still have to apply. If your country isn’t on the list, you’ll need to take both the theory and practical tests. Many people don’t realize this deadline exists until they get stopped by police or try to renew their car insurance.

Some people think a foreign licence works forever, or that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is enough. That’s not true. An IDP is just a translation tool—it doesn’t extend your driving rights. It’s only useful if your licence isn’t in English or Welsh. You still need your original licence to drive legally. Also, don’t assume your insurance covers you automatically. Most UK insurers require you to declare your foreign licence upfront, and some charge extra or refuse coverage if you don’t switch within the legal window.

What about renting a car? Most rental companies in London accept foreign licences for short stays, but they’ll still ask for your passport and proof of address. If you’re planning to live here long-term, renting becomes expensive and risky without a UK licence. Some companies even refuse rentals after 12 months, regardless of your original licence’s expiry date.

Driving in London isn’t just about having a licence—it’s about understanding the rules. Congestion Charge, ULEZ, and parking restrictions apply to everyone, no matter where your licence came from. You’re held to the same standards as a UK driver. Get a ticket for speeding or illegal parking? It’ll follow you, even if you leave the country.

If you’re thinking about swapping your licence for a UK one, start early. The DVLA processing time can take up to three weeks, and delays happen. Don’t wait until your 12 months are almost up. Keep your foreign licence safe even after you get your UK one—you’ll need it to prove your driving history. Many people lose points on their UK licence because they forget to transfer their old record.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What works for someone from Germany won’t work for someone from India. The rules change based on where you’re from, how long you’ve been here, and whether you’re a student, worker, or permanent resident. That’s why this page collects real experiences, step-by-step guides, and honest warnings from people who’ve been through it. You’ll find posts about how to handle the paperwork, what to expect at the DVLA, and how to avoid common mistakes that cost people time and money. Whether you just arrived or you’re wondering if you’ve waited too long, you’ll find what you need here—no fluff, no guesswork, just what actually works in London.