3 major driving law changes on the way – here’s what you need to know

Britain’s roads are always evolving, and so new driving laws come in all the time. This year is no different – UK roads and parking rules are about to see some significant changes, with updates to parking regulations, fuel duty, and licence renewal requirements for older drivers. Some (such as the parking changes) may be more welcome than others, but whatever the case, it always helps to ensure that you’re up to speed on them, so that you’re not caught out. There are few things more irritating than getting a fine through the post, especially if you hadn’t realised you’d done anything wrong.

So, whether you’re planning to hire a car in the near future or you’re sticking with driving your own, here are three of the most significant new incoming driving laws.

New parking changes to improve fairness for motorists

Most of us regard private parking charges as (at best) a necessary evil. Lots of us are fine with parking enforcement when it’s preventing other people from blocking our drives, but considerably less OK with it when opaque signage, inconsistent rules and strict enforcement means we’re charged £60 for parking in a city centre, even when we’ve tried our best to follow rules. Coupled with that, the tactics of certain parking companies have been widely believed (and in some cases officially recognised) to be predatory.

The Private Parking Sector Single Code of Practice aims to address all that. Starting in October, this new code will come into effect, aiming to make private parking systems fairer and more consistent across the UK by setting out clear, standardised guidelines that all operators must follow.

One key aspect of this change is the introduction of a mandatory 10-minute grace period after a parking session ends. It aims to take the stress off parking times by giving you a short buffer to get back to your car without worrying about of being fined immediately. That’s especially helpful in situations where you might find it tricky to return to your car on time – for example if you’re relying on a connecting bus or train that gets delayed.

Additionally, the new rules require more consistent signage in car parks and the introduction of an appeals charter, so that drivers can challenge parking fines more easily and with clearer guidelines. The new framework is designed to be transparent and user-friendly, helping to eliminate confusion over where and when parking fees apply.

Fuel duty rise likely on the cards in the October budget

The next piece of news is probably going to be rather less welcome – motorists may face a rise in fuel costs soon, as the upcoming Budget (which is scheduled for 30 October) could include an increase in fuel duty. After years of frozen rates, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly planning to reinstate a higher fuel duty to help address a £22 billion gap in the public finances.

The current fuel duty has been fixed at 57.95p per litre since 2011, though it saw a temporary 5p per litre reduction in March 2022 to help relieve motorists from rising fuel prices. However, experts warn that this reduction is now looking likely to be reversed, potentially bringing the rate back up to 58p per litre or higher. That’s raised concerns that the Treasury is leaning towards a 10p per litre increase, which would significantly impact drivers and businesses reliant on transport.

This potential rise comes at a time when household budgets are already stretched due to inflation and the cost of living crisis. If the hike goes ahead, it could push petrol and diesel prices higher, making it more expensive to fill up your tank. The RAC has urged the government to reconsider, warning that any increase would add to the financial pressure faced by millions of motorists.

DVLA rule change may see drivers over 70 to lose certain licence categories

The third major law change focuses on older drivers and their licence renewals. Under new DVLA regulations likely to be brought in force very soon, drivers who reach the age of 70 will automatically lose their entitlement to drive certain larger vehicles, such as motorhomes, campervans, and minibuses, unless they pass additional medical checks.

Currently, any driver who passes their 70th birthday needs to renew their driving licence every three years. However, the new rules mean that drivers will no longer be able to drive vehicles classified under the C1 and D1 categories (medium-sized vehicles and minibuses, respectively) without completing a D2 form and undergoing a D4 medical examination. These tests are designed to ensure that older drivers can still safely operate larger vehicles, particularly in cases where health concerns might affect their driving abilities.

The Older Drivers Forum has highlighted the need for those affected to act promptly if they wish to retain their driving privileges in these categories. Motorists who want to keep their ability to drive minibuses or motorhomes must undergo these checks every three years, ensuring that their health remains up to the required standard.

In case you’re wondering – yes, that last new law will also apply to hiring our minibuses here at Intack Self Drive. If you need a quick refresher on the requirements, you can find them over on our FAQs page! Alternatively, if you need any assistance or advice, you can always just give our team a call on 01254 57811, and one of our team will be happy to chat through anything you need to know about car hire or van hire in as much or as little detail as you like. We’re here to help!