Can I Drive in The UK on My Australian Licence

The United Kingdom (UK) has a few noteworthy exceptions to its road rules, such as its allowance of right-hand drive cars. However, one exemption is not so well known: using Australian licences in the UK.

Specifically, if you are an Australian citizen living outside Australia and currently hold an Australian driver's licence, you're eligible for a UK driver's permit. The permit will allow you to drive on British roads during your visit and even transport goods for up to three months after leaving the country if needed!

This means that you can use your licence anywhere else in Europe during your stay and don't have to worry about getting stuck when trying to return home. The permit is valid for three years, but once you have left the country, you must give the UK authorities a report of your trip or face a hefty fine.

Rules for Using AUS Driver's Licences in the UK

You must hold a valid Australian driver's licence

That might seem obvious, but it's an important starting point. You will only be eligible for the UK permit if you have a valid licence. Getting an Australian driving licence before travelling to the UK is strongly recommended to avoid confusion later.

You must live outside of Australia

You can't apply for a UK licence if you still reside in Australia. The authorities will only accept one licence from an individual and generally refuse to acknowledge two separate licences from the same person. If you're applying for the permit, you must reside elsewhere.

You must have held your licence for at least one year

If you already have your Australian licence for at least one year, then it will be accepted by the UK authorities as long as your last resident country is Australia. In other words, if you've been living in England or Wales (and maybe Ireland) while holding your Australian licence, they'll accept it.

Your licence must not be expired

The UK authorities understand that many people are unaware that they must renew their Australian driving licences yearly. They'll still accept your current licence as long as it has yet to expire. In most cases, the expiry date will be indicated by a '+' sign after the previous expiration date. If you have an expired licence, you'll have to surrender it at the border (with your report) and re-apply for a new one afterward.

Your licence must be for the same class vehicle you plan to drive

If you're planning on driving your car with an Australian licence, you must also apply for a UK driving permit. You'll need a special permit if you wish to drive a heavy truck. Furthermore, if the engine size of your vehicle is larger than 3500cc, then there are additional restrictions in place, such as a speed limit.

Steps for Obtaining a Driver's Permit 

Make an appointment with the UK Embassy

The British Embassy in Australia is located in Canberra, so you'll have to make the trip down to their office if you want to apply for your permit there. Otherwise, you can choose any other UK Embassy or Consulate and apply there instead. Keep in mind that applications need to be made at least one week before leaving for the UK.

Provide proof of your current Australian licence

Bring your current Australian driver's licence with you when making an appointment, and remember not to give it out to anyone! You must also bring proof of your most recent Australian address and two passport photographs that meet certain specifications.

Provide proof of residence in Australia

You must provide proof that you currently reside in Australia, such as your Australian driver's licence, your most recent utility bill, your lease or rent agreement, or your bank statement. In some cases, further documents may be necessary to prove that you live outside of Australia.

Present a valid passport to confirm your citizenship

You'll need to prove that you are a citizen of Australia, and therefore your passport is required at the Embassy. Make sure that it's not expired and that you have plenty of time before it expires.

If you don't have enough time remaining, consider renewing your passport before applying for the UK driving permit and allow yourself some extra time in case there are any delays.

Provide proof of insurance for your car

The UK driving permit will only be issued once you present proof of insurance for your vehicle. You can purchase a UK insurance policy while applying or obtain it afterward. Either way, the UK authorities will only accept liability insurance purchased in Australia.

Provide proof of travel arrangements and medical advice

In addition to your current Australian driver's licence, you'll need to present your passport and proof of travel arrangements, and medical advice (if necessary). If you do not have the required pre-existing medical conditions and ailments form, the UK authorities will insist on filling out pre-existing forms before issuing your permit.

Pass a theory test and obtain a certificate

You must prove competent enough to drive in the UK if you have never held an overseas licence. To do this, you must either pass the theory test in Australia or obtain a certificate by attending any certified driving school. Once you have passed the test or obtained your certificate, you must bring it to the UK authorities along with your current Australian driver's licence.

Address any outstanding traffic violation records

If you have been issued any traffic violation fines or charges in Australia, you must take the necessary steps to clear your record before applying for a UK permit. In some instances, you might have to pay fines before being accepted as a driver in the UK.

Pay a fee

The cost to apply for a UK driving permit varies depending on the type of vehicle you want to drive and the duration of your stay in the UK. If you wish to drive your car, it will cost around £17 (+-$30 AUS Dollars) for up to 90 days during your visit. If you want to drive a heavy truck or motorhome, the price is about £24 (+-$42 AUS Dollars) for up to 90 days. The fee also depends on how long you intend to stay in the UK.

Wait for your permit to be issued

You'll receive a notification when the UK authorities have decided whether or not you can obtain a permit. You'll pay the fee again if approved and be issued your permit number. If you're rejected, then it's back to square one.

Tips for Using Australian Driving Licences in the UK

Renew your Australian licence before leaving for the UK

If you have an expired licence and are unsure if you'll be able to renew it in time, remember that the Australian authorities will only issue a new one if you're within Australia. In this case, consider obtaining a temporary overseas visitor permit.

Carry a certified translation of your licence

An English translation of your driver's licence may be required if you try using it in the UK. If so, the authorities will most likely request that the translation is from a certified translator. For the translator to be certified, they must have either a British or Irish qualification in translation or have been an accredited member of an association for at least five years.

Laminate your licence and get enhanced security holograms

If you intend to travel to many countries in one year, consider laminating your licence to protect it against water damage or abrasions. You may also check out the additional safety benefits of enhanced security holograms if you're serious about protecting the information on them.

Check your record carefully

If you have been issued with traffic violations, you should check them to see if they will cause any problems in the future. You also need to pay attention to any outstanding fines or charges before arriving in the UK. If you have unpaid traffic violation charges or fines, the authorities may suspend or ban your permit or refuse to issue one.

Have your vehicle inspected

You will need a valid inspection to drive a heavy truck or motorhome. If your car's roadworthiness is less than adequate, you will have to get it inspected in the UK or obtain a written statement of compliance with all relevant vehicle standards.

Driving in the UK Doesn't Have to be a Hassle

Although some may consider driving in the UK with an Australian licence stressful, you'll be glad you took the time to prepare and research. The more information you have, the smoother your trip will go; chances are that you won't even hit any significant setbacks.

Before you leave Australia for your trip to the UK, you must understand how the UK authorities will view your Australian driver's licence and determine whether it meets their requirements.

Using your Australian licence in the UK is one side of the equation. You will also need a good and reliable car during your stay in the UK. You can get great car deals from trusted dealerships or car sales platforms online.