UK drivers warned of 7 rules and regulation changes in 2026

Proposed changes to drink-driving limits, mandatory eyesight tests and driving test booking system alterations are among the 7 things highlighted for the year.

Some of the new regulations are aimed at improving road safety and reducing accidents.

UK drivers warned of 7 rules and regulation changes that may come in 2026

Motoring experts at car leasing deals comparison site LeaseLoco have outlined 7 changes that have or could come into place and affect UK drivers.

John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco, said: “We’re set to see a big shake-up to motoring rules this year, and it’s important that drivers understand how these changes are going to affect them.

“Many of the proposals aim to improve road safety, with the stricter drink-drive limit and tougher drug-driving enforcement highlighting a clear push to crack down on dangerous driving. 

“Mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers and stricter seatbelt rules are also significant changes designed to make the roads safer for everyone. 

“At the same time, drivers should be prepared for rising costs, with expected increases to fuel duty and changes to congestion charges likely to add to the overall expense of driving in 2026.”

Here are the 7 changes listed:

Reduced drink-driving limits

Experts have warned that the Government could look to reduce the drink-driving limit from the current 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 22 micrograms, which matches the stricter limit that’s already in place in Scotland. 

Roadside tests for drug driving

Proposed new regulations will enable police to use saliva-based roadside tests as sufficient evidence for the prosecution of drug driving offences, aiming to speed up the prosecution process, as currently, a positive roadside result requires a follow-up blood test. 

Mandatory eyesight tests

Drivers aged 70 and above may soon be required to undergo mandatory eyesight tests every three years when they renew their licence, a change from the current system, which relies on motorists to self-report any problems with their vision.

Stricter seatbelt rules

If you are caught not wearing a seatbelt, it can result in a fine of up to £500, but updated rules could see it add three penalty points to your licence for the same offence, with passengers not wearing a seatbelt possibly receiving penalty points too.

London Congestion Charge changes

As of January 2, the daily Congestion Charge in London has increased from £15 to £18, with electric car owners also losing their 100% exemption from the Congestion Charge. (They can still apply for a 25% discount).

Recommended reading:

Fuel duty increasing

Despite the Autumn Budget stating that fuel duty remains frozen until September 2026, it is then set to be increased in a staggered approach, which means drivers could face noticeably higher expenses at the pumps from late 2026 onwards.

Driving test booking changes

In spring 2026, the DVSA will introduce changes to its driving test booking system, only allowing learners to book their own tests, aimed at stopping bots and third-party sellers from grabbing available test slots and reselling them at inflated prices.