{"id":324,"date":"2023-12-18T10:08:21","date_gmt":"2023-12-18T10:08:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/?p=324"},"modified":"2024-03-29T19:48:29","modified_gmt":"2024-03-29T19:48:29","slug":"driving-in-uk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/blog\/driving-in-uk\/","title":{"rendered":"Driving in the UK"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

This guide is for all adventurous families who’ve just leaped across the pond to the UK. As a mum who’s navigated such a transition myself, I know too well that getting to grips with the local roadways is as crucial as it\u2019s daunting. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Picture this: Your first time behind the wheel in a new country, you\u2019re on high alert, with roundabouts seemingly at every turn and cars whizzing on what your instincts are screaming is the ‘wrong’ side of the road! It\u2019s a bit like learning to dance, a complicated routine, but with the car as your dance partner. It takes some getting used to. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But fear not, because that’s exactly why I’m here \u2013 to steer you right with a down-to-earth run-through of driving in the UK.<\/strong> From navigating those pesky roundabouts to understanding the myriad road signs, I’ll arm you with the know-how to confidently hit the roads. So buckle up, and let’s get ready to tackle the British tarmac together!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I got to say that for me- driving in the UK, was a real challenge. I literally cried and I had a huge fear in driving on the opposite side. I still avoid with driving on some roads or certain places. That’s perfectly normal. Give yourself some time to adjust. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Getting Acquainted with UK Driving Laws<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Let’s chat about what you need to know to drive confidently on British roads<\/strong>. Right off the bat, you’ll notice that cars here keep to the left, which can be a tad disorienting if you’re coming from one of the 163 countries<\/a> where driving on the right is the norm. It’s important to take it slow at first; perhaps practise in quieter areas to build up your confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to age and legal nitty-gritty, you must be at least 17 to drive a car<\/a> in the UK. But before you even think about getting behind the wheel, you need a provisional licence. It’s your ticket to start learning and yes, that includes passing a theory test before you can graduate to the practical exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, onto the bits of paperwork that keep you legit on the road. First, there’s your driving licence, which you’ll get once you’ve proven you can handle a car safely through both written and practical tests. It can be a bit of a process with lessons and practice, but it’s all about keeping everyone safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You’ll also need to sort out car insurance<\/strong>, which is non-negotiable, and ensure the vehicle is registered in your name. Lastly, don’t forget the MOT<\/a> (Ministry of Transport test), which is an annual check-up for your car to make sure it meets safety and environmental standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Right, let’s talk about our precious cargo – our kids. Child safety laws<\/a> in the UK are pretty stringent, and for good reason. Car seats are a must for children up to 12 years old or 135cm in height, whichever comes first. When choosing the right car seat, it’s all about making sure it’s appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Plus, it has to be correctly installed. Most shops will help with this, so don’t hesitate to ask for a demo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing the Right Family Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Choosing the right family vehicle in the UK involves a blend of practicality, safety, and budget considerations. As a mum myself, I understand the juggle between needing enough space to accommodate the endless stream of sports bags and school projects while also keeping an eye on the safety features that give you that extra peace of mind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s not just about the number of seats in the car; it’s about how those seats can adapt to carry your precious cargo, from booster seats to the family dog. The UK’s roads and weather can be unpredictable, so stability control, ABS<\/a>, and good crash-test ratings should be high on your checklist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another factor that’s becoming increasingly hard to ignore is fuel economy. With fuel prices fluctuating<\/a> the way they are, a car that sips rather than guzzles petrol can make a big difference to your family’s monthly outgoings. It’s worth looking at the miles per gallon (MPG) figures, but remember that real-world driving is often less efficient than the manufacturer’s claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rental vs. Owning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to renting versus owning a family vehicle in the UK, it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Renting can be a great option if you’re not ready to commit to a purchase straight away. It allows for flexibility, especially if you still get a feel for what works best for your family. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can try out different models and sizes<\/strong> without having to worry about maintenance costs or depreciation. However, rental costs can add up over time, and you don’t benefit from owning the asset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buying a car, on the other hand, means it’s yours to use as you please. You can clock as many miles as you need and make it feel like a second home with personal touches. The downside? It’s a significant upfront cost, and cars depreciate quickly. You’ll also be responsible for maintenance and repairs, which can be unpredictable and costly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the best places to buy a used in a very good condition: <\/p>\n\n\n\n