Driving

The public transport system in Scotland is excellent, but sooner or later you're going to appreciate the convenience of having your own car and experience some of the most scenic roads in Europe.

To be able to drive, you must be at least 17 years old and have a valid driving licence.

If you've already been issued with one in another EEA country, you can simply swap it for a full UK driving licence.

Otherwise, you can use your existing licence for up to a year, provided pass a UK driving test during that time.

Find out more about changing your driving license to a UK driving license from DirectGov

Learning to drive in Scotland

If you can't yet drive but want to learn, you can do so under the supervision of another driver, who must be 21 or over and have held a full licence for more than three years, or through a qualified driving instructor.

While learning, you’ll have to display special "L" (learner) plates on your vehicle.

The driving test itself consists of two parts – a theory test and a practical, on-the-road examination.

You have to pass both parts to get your licence, but can resit as many times as you like.

Rules of the road in Scotland

The Highway Code contains the rules of the road and explanations of road signs and the law. Here's some general rules you must know:

  • You must drive on the left. This applies to all regions of the UK
  • Don’t drink and drive – the penalties are severe and include automatic loss of your licence as well as a substantial fine
  • Whilst driving, the use of your mobile phone without a hands-free kit, is illegal
  • It is compulsory for everyone in the car to wear seat belts
  • Don’t speed – the penalties are strictly enforced

Speed limits on Scotland's roads

  • Motorway: 70 mph/112 kph
  • Dual carriageway: 70 mph/112 kph
  • Single carriageway: 60 mph/96 kph
  • Built-up areas: 30 mph/48 kph

Read the Highway Code for more driving rules in Scotland

Buying your own car

There's no shortage of places to buy a new or used car.

When you do, be sure to obtain a vehicle registration document and register the vehicle in your own name.

Before taking it on the road, you’ll need to insure your car. 

You’ll also need to buy a road fund licence for your vehicle, which could cost up to £160, depending on the size of engine, age of the car and how much carbon dioxide it emits.

If it’s three years old or more, your car will have to undergo an annual MOT to ensure that it’s roadworthy. Again, most garages will do this, but the costs vary.

Car hire (rental)

With public transport being so good you may not want to buy a car but still may need one every now and then.

You’ll find all the big international car rental firms represented in Scotland alongside many smaller, local outlets.

You’ll need to take your driving licence and usually a credit card along with you.