The year 2026 marks a significant shift for motorists across the United Kingdom, with a series of new driving laws and regulations coming into force. From digital documentation to revised test criteria and financial adjustments, the landscape of UK motoring is evolving rapidly. Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar, has highlighted the key changes that every driver must understand to stay compliant and safe on the roads.
Financial Impacts and Daily Costs
Several changes in 2026 will directly affect drivers' wallets. From 1 January 2026, the electricity price cap rose to £1,758, a 0.2% increase that means slightly higher home charging costs for electric vehicle (EV) owners. More immediately, the London Congestion Charge increased on 2 January 2026. The daily rate now stands at £18 if paid on or before the travel day, and £21 if settled within three days. While pure battery EV drivers registered for Auto Pay receive a 25% discount, paying £13.50, all drivers entering the zone are now liable.
Furthermore, the long-standing freeze on fuel duty is scheduled to end. The rate will remain at 52.95p per litre until September 2026, after which it is set to revert to 57.95p per litre by March 2027, with future increases tied to inflation.
Overhaul of Testing and Licensing
The process of learning to drive and proving your right to do so is undergoing a modernisation. From early 2026, learner drivers will face new questions on CPR and defibrillator use in their theory tests, aiming to boost emergency preparedness.
More substantial changes to the practical test booking system arrive in spring 2026. The new rules state that only the learner can book their test, not the instructor. Learners will be limited to just two changes per booking and can only move tests to nearby centres. Cancellations or rescheduling will require at least 10 working days' notice. A government consultation is also considering imposing a mandatory six-month waiting period before taking a test.
Perhaps the most notable update is the planned introduction of digital driving licences in summer 2026. These will be accessible via the GOV.UK Wallet app on a smartphone, simplifying verification and renewal processes, though physical licences will remain valid.
Electric Vehicle Regulations and Tech Advances
Policy continues to shape the transition to electric transport. The Fuel Finder scheme, expected in February 2026, will require petrol stations to share real-time fuel prices, helping drivers find the best deals.
A significant tax break arrives for EV owners in April 2026. The threshold for the luxury car tax (VED supplement) on electric vehicles will rise from £40,000 to £50,000. This means many EVs priced between these amounts will escape the extra levy entirely.
Broader mandates continue to push the industry forward. The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requires that 33% of new car sales and 24% of new van sales be zero-emission in 2026, up from 28% and 16% respectively in 2025. Looking further ahead, the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act paves the way for self-driving vehicles to begin appearing on British roads from 2026 onwards.
Richard Evans emphasised the importance of awareness, stating: "With a lot of changes happening throughout this year, it's important for all drivers to stay informed... Keeping up to date is not just a legal requirement - it's a shared responsibility that helps protect every road user." Motorists are advised to regularly check official sources like GOV.UK to ensure they are operating within the latest legal framework.
