Six Major Driving Law Changes in February 2025: What UK Motorists Need to Know

UK motorists are facing six major driving law changes this month that could impact everything from driving licences to parking regulations. These updates affect both private and commercial drivers, with new rules on electric vehicles, fines, and parking enforcement.

Here’s everything you need to know about the driving law changes taking effect in February 2025.

1. Electric Vehicle Ban Decision Confirmed

The Labour government has officially reversed the previous delay on banning new petrol and diesel car sales.

• From 2030, no new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will be sold in the UK.
• This accelerates the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), five years earlier than the previously proposed 2035 deadline.
• The government is conducting a consultation to review vehicle technology preferences between 2030-2035.

2. New Traffic Fines Introduced

In an effort to improve road safety, 13 new traffic offences have been added to Schedule 3 of the Road Traffic Offender Act 1988 (RTOA 1988).

• These offences will now be part of the National Driver Offender Retraining Scheme (NDORS).
• Instead of immediate fines, offenders may be given the option to attend a driver education course as an alternative to prosecution.

3. Driving Test Booking System Overhaul

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is inviting feedback on a proposed revamp of the driving test booking system.

• The consultation closes on February 11, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
• Over 7,700 people have already submitted feedback to improve the scheduling process for car driving tests.

4. Pavement Parking Bans in Scotland (Coming to England?)

Following Edinburgh’s ban on pavement parking in January 2024, Glasgow has also implemented restrictions this week.

• Motorists who park on pavements can face a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
• The law is part of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, which prohibits:
  • Parking on dropped kerbs
  • Double parking
  • Obstructing pedestrian pathways
• London is the only city in England with similar laws, but MPs are urging the government to expand restrictions nationwide.

5. New Private Parking Rules Introduced

Private parking firms are updating their Code of Practice, introducing fairer regulations for motorists.

• A new grace period is being introduced, extending the five-minute limit before receiving a penalty.
• The British Parking Association (BPA) and International Parking Community (IPC) have formed a panel to ensure rules are clear and fair for motorists.
• New rules will take effect this month, ensuring drivers are given a reasonable opportunity to pay for parking before being fined.

6. Extended Driving Licence Validity for Ukrainians

The UK government is considering extending the validity of Ukrainian driving licences due to the ongoing crisis.

• Under the proposal, Ukrainian licences would be valid for 54 months (4.5 years) after the holder becomes a UK resident.
• This follows a previous 36-month extension, which was supported by 99% of public responses in a 2023 consultation.

FAQs

How will the electric vehicle (EV) ban affect drivers?

Starting in 2030, no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold in the UK, requiring buyers to choose electric vehicles or hybrids.

What are the new traffic fines introduced?

Thirteen new offences have been added to the Road Traffic Offender Act, with offenders offered education courses instead of fines in some cases.

How is the driving test booking system changing?

The DVSA is consulting drivers about improving the scheduling system for booking car driving tests. The consultation closes on February 11, 2025.

Where is pavement parking now banned?

Scotland has banned pavement parking in Edinburgh and Glasgow, with London being the only English city with similar rules. MPs are urging a nationwide expansion.

What are the new private parking rules?

Private parking firms must now provide a longer grace period before issuing fines, ensuring fairer enforcement.

How long will Ukrainian driving licences remain valid in the UK?

If the new proposal is approved, Ukrainian driving licences will be valid for 54 months after the holder becomes a UK resident.

Will these changes affect parking fines across the UK?

Yes, the new private parking rules will reduce unfair penalties, making it easier for drivers to pay before being fined.

How can I give feedback on the new driving test booking system?

You can submit your feedback through the DVSA’s online consultation before February 11, 2025.

Conclusion

February 2025 brings significant changes to UK driving laws, including stricter traffic regulations, parking bans, and an accelerated transition to electric vehicles.

Motorists should stay informed about these new rules and deadlines to avoid fines and adapt to the evolving UK road laws.