For UK motorists, 2026 represents one of the most significant periods of change in recent years. A wide range of updates are being introduced that affect how licences are held and managed, how vehicles are taxed and monitored, and how road safety laws are enforced. Some changes are already underway, while others will be phased in gradually throughout the year and beyond. Together, they place greater responsibility on drivers to stay informed and compliant. At MAJ Law, we regularly advise drivers who are caught out not through bad driving, but because the law changed quietly in the background.
Digital Driving Licences and Online Records
The UK is moving towards a digital driving licence system, with full rollout expected by 2027. While physical photocard licences will remain valid, drivers are increasingly expected to manage their details online via the DVLA. This includes updating personal and medical information, which is more important than many drivers realise. As enforcement becomes more automated, incorrect or outdated records are far more likely to be flagged.
Drivers should regularly check that the following details are accurate:
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Home address
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Medical conditions that must be declared
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Licence entitlements and restrictions
Useful information can be found on the official GOV.UK page:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence
Failing to keep these details up to date can lead to fines, enforcement issues following a police stop, or complications with insurance claims.
Learner Drivers and Driving Test Rule Changes
Learner drivers will face stricter rules around booking and managing driving tests in 2026. These changes are designed to prevent abuse of the test system, but they also mean learners need to plan more carefully than ever.
Key changes include:
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A requirement to give at least 10 working days’ notice to cancel or change a test
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Driving instructors no longer being able to book tests on behalf of learners
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Limits on how often a test can be rescheduled
Official guidance is available here:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/book-driving-test
Unexpected illness or work commitments could now result in longer delays before a new test date becomes available.
MOT, Tax and Insurance Enforcement Is Increasing
Police forces and enforcement agencies are expanding the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)technology, making it far easier to identify vehicles without a valid MOT, tax, or insurance. These checks happen automatically and continuously, meaning even a short lapse can have serious consequences.
Drivers risk:
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Fixed penalty notices
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Court proceedings
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Vehicle seizure
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Insurance policies being invalidated after an accident
Drivers can check their vehicle status online:
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MOT status: https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status
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Vehicle tax: https://www.gov.uk/check-vehicle-tax
Electric Vehicles and New Tax Liabilities
Electric vehicles are no longer exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty. If your EV was registered on or after 1 April 2025, you’ll be required to pay £195 per year from the second year onwards. While the higher-rate threshold for expensive vehicles has increased from £40,000 to £50,000, EV ownership is no longer a tax-free option.
More information on vehicle tax bands can be found here:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax-rate-tables
Fuel Duty and Company Car Tax Changes
Fuel duty is expected to rise again from September 2026, bringing an end to the long-standing 5p-per-litre reduction. This will particularly affect commuters and business drivers. Company car users should also take note of benefit-in-kind changes, with electric company cars increasing from 3% to 4% and high-emission vehicles potentially taxed at rates of up to 37%.
Motability Scheme Updates
From 2026, changes to the Motability scheme may affect vehicle availability and affordability. Some higher-value vehicles are being removed, and VAT and insurance costs on Advance Payment vehicles will rise from July, although Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles will remain exempt.
Official updates are available via:
👉 https://www.motability.co.uk
London Congestion Charges and Reduced EV Discounts
London’s congestion charge has increased to £18 per day, or £21 if paid late. At the same time, discounts for electric vehicles are being reduced, meaning many drivers will now pay more to travel into the capital.
Current charges and discounts can be checked here:
👉 https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge
Emissions Standards and Road Safety Law Changes
From November 2026, all newly registered cars and vans must meet Euro 7 emissions standards, which aim to reduce pollution but may increase vehicle costs. Alongside this, several road safety measures are being considered, including mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70, a reduced drink-drive limit, and the introduction of penalty points for failing to wear a seatbelt.
Self-Driving Cars and Theory Test Updates
Self-driving vehicles are expected to begin limited use on UK roads, subject to strict safety standards. Meanwhile, learner drivers will also face updated theory tests, including new questions on CPR and the use of Automated External Defibrillators, reflecting a broader push towards improved emergency response awareness.
Why Staying Informed Matters
Many motoring offences arise not from dangerous driving, but from drivers being unaware that the law has changed. With increased automation and stricter enforcement, small oversights can quickly escalate into serious legal problems. Keeping informed, checking records regularly, and seeking early advice can make all the difference.
If you’re unsure how these changes affect you, or you’re facing a motoring offence, specialist advice from MAJ Law can help protect your licence, your livelihood, and your future.
