Everyday life · Can I drive with my foreign licence?
Driving in the UK with a non-GB licence.
Last verified: 1 November 2026· Based on GOV.UK (DVLA)· Next review 1 February 2027
Quick answer
Whether you can drive on your current licence, exchange it for a British one, or need to take UK tests depends on the country that issued it and how long you have lived here. GOV.UK has a short official tool that tells you which applies to you.
Applies to: Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) — Northern Ireland has a separate process
Who this is for
- Anyone living in Great Britain who holds a driving licence issued outside Great Britain.
- Rules differ by country and vehicle type, so always check your own case with the official tool before driving.
Rules can depend on your own situation. If you are unsure, check the official page below before acting.
Step by step
- 1
Check what your licence allows
Use the GOV.UK 'Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence' tool. It asks where your licence is from and when you became resident.
- 2
See if you can exchange it
If the tool says you can, use the GOV.UK exchange tool to see how to swap it for a British licence.
- 3
If you cannot exchange, plan for UK tests
You may need a provisional licence, then the theory and practical tests. Apply for the provisional licence only through GOV.UK.
- 4
Check insurance
Tell your insurer exactly which licence you hold. Driving without valid insurance is illegal.
If something goes wrong
Someone offers to 'convert' your licence for a fee
What to do: Do not pay. Use only the official GOV.UK services linked on this page.
You live in Northern Ireland
What to do: Follow the link on the GOV.UK exchange page for getting a Northern Ireland driving licence.
Official links
When you are ready to apply or check the detail, use these official services. Each opens in a new tab.
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Where this comes from
Based on GOV.UK (DVLA). Last verified 1 November 2026; next review 1 February 2027.
MyAgumba explains official guidance in plain English. It is not legal, immigration or medical advice, and MyAgumba is not part of, or endorsed by, the government or the NHS. Always confirm the detail on the official page before acting.