With just 2 months to go until the latest change to driving laws in the UK, don’t be caught short. Here’s what you need to know. 

Car tax for diesel cars

Brought about by the Autumn Budget 2017, as of April 2018, the required car tax for diesel passenger vehicles will be changing. With the government’s commitment to reduce CO2 emissions, diesel cars that do not meet Euro 6 emission standards will fall into a higher car tax band. Currently vans and commercial vehicles are not affected.

New MOT rules

Good news – for classic car enthusiasts! From May 2018, cars older than 40 years old will no longer need an MOT certificate. Not such good news for the new car owners amongst us! If your car is a newer model it will be subject to the new categories of MOT testing; minor, major or dangerous. Any vehicles revealing areas of concern which could result in major or dangerous outcomes will automatically fail the MOT.

Red X

In the ‘Big Brother is watching’ era, motorways are no exception. Smart motorways are being installed across the UK and it's predicted that by Spring 2018 roadside cameras will be able to automatically penalise drivers. The latest focus is to record drivers who continue to drive in lanes displaying a red X. Once implemented, drivers who ignore lane closures will be issued with a fixed penalty of £100 and three points.

Learner driver on the motorway

With a decrease in newly qualified drivers completing the PassPlus course it is being considered to allow learner drivers onto motorways – as long as they are accompanied by an approved driving instructor and the driving car is fitted with dual controls.

Allowing learner drivers to have lessons on motorways will help to make sure more drivers know how to use motorways safely.

For more information or guidance regarding the new driving laws visit the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.