A total of 22 new driving laws were introduced in January this year (Image: Getty)
Motorists have been warned that a total of 22 new driving regulations have come into effect this year, impacting everything from driving licences to traffic penalties. As we progress into 2025, drivers are being urged to get up to speed with these modifications.
And the arrival of February is set to usher in even more changes, ahead of the new car tax rates and alterations announced by the Labour Party.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has verified adjustments to the tax bands for brand new cars from April 2025 onwards.
However, these changes will only affect the cost of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) for the first year the car is registered.
With this in mind, has assembled a list of the most vital new rules that motorists need to be aware of.
Instructors will no be longer permitted to book tests for learners they’re not teaching (Image: Getty)
Traffic fines – 13 new rules
- Cyclist holding on to a trailer for the purpose of being drawn along S.26(2) RTA 1988
- Riding a pedal cycle in a dangerous manner in a Royal Park S.2(1) Parks Regulation (Amendment) Act 1926, regulation 3(10)(c) The Royal Parks and Other Open Spaces Regulations 1997
- Use a non-motor vehicle with a lamp used to cause undue dazzle or discomfort S.91 RTOA 1988, regulation 27 Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989
- Fail to stop at a school crossing patrol S.28(3) Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (RTRA 1984)
- Fail to wait at a school crossing patrol S. 28(3) RTRA 1984.
- Use of a pedal cycle without lights at night S.91 RTOA 1988, regulation 24(a)(i) Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989
- Cyclist holding on to a vehicle for the purpose of being drawn along S.26(2) RTA 1988
- Use of a pedal cycle at night without lights or reflector being fitted S.91 RTOA 1988, regulation 23(1) Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989
- Cycle on a road without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other users S.29 RTA 1988
- Cycle on a road dangerously s.28(1) RTA 1988
- Using a vehicle or cycle in the dark with no lights in a Royal Park s. 2(1) Parks Regulation (Amendment) Act 1926, regulation 3(11)(a) The Royal Parks and Other Open Spaces Regulations 1997
- Use of a pedal cycle when the lights are not in good working order S.91 RTOA 1988, regulation 23(1) Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989
- Fail to comply with instructions on a notice from a constable regarding the use of a pedal cycle in a Royal Park S.2(1) Parks Regulation (Amendment) Act 1926, regulation 3(9)(a) The Royal Parks and Other Open Spaces Regulations 1997
DVSA – 7 new rules
Furthermore, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced seven new rules. Revised regulations for booking practical driving tests have been put into place in an attempt to address the record waiting times and clamp down on black-market bookings.
Under these new rules, driving instructors are no longer allowed to book tests for learner drivers they’re not teaching, and companies without instructors cannot make test bookings either. However, individuals still have the right to book their own test slots.
Additionally, organisations that charge administrative fees for making a booking must disclose this at the point of sale.
Don’t miss… [WARNING]
In a significant update for learner drivers, the cancellation period for driving tests has been extended, allowing candidates to cancel their test without losing the £62 fee up to 10 working days in advance, increased from the previous three. This change is part of a comprehensive seven-step plan developed by the government and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) aimed at tackling the long wait times for driving tests.
The strategy includes a consultation with the industry on additional methods to decrease waiting periods.
Driving licences
On the technology front, the Government has announced plans to introduce digital driving licences through a new app set to be released this summer. This initiative is designed to streamline access to government services and will eventually allow users to securely store various official documents in a digital “wallet” within the app.
Initially, the app will offer a veteran card, with a trial for digital driving licences expected later in the year. The digital wallet will utilise existing smartphone security features like facial recognition, similar to those used in mobile payment systems.
While the digital licence will be an optional alternative, traditional physical documents will remain valid.
In terms of environmental policy, the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate for 2025 stipulates that 28% of new car sales must be zero-emission vehicles. Additionally, the mandate sets a target for 16% of new van sales to be ZEVs.