What to check before borrowing a car in the UK as a visitor

1. Do You Have the Right Licence?

The first thing to check is whether your driving licence is valid for use in the UK. Visitors from many countries, including those from the EU, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, can typically drive in the UK for a limited period without needing to exchange their licence. However, international driving permits may be required in certain cases.

Before getting behind the wheel, confirm the following:

• Your licence is valid and has not expired.
• It is in English or accompanied by an official translation if required.
• It permits you to drive the type of vehicle you are borrowing.

Ignoring these checks could leave you unknowingly driving without a valid licence - something that could result in serious legal trouble.

2. Is the Car Properly Insured?

Driving without valid insurance in the UK is illegal, and the penalties can be severe. If you borrow a car, do not assume that you are automatically covered by the owner’s policy.

Before driving, check:

• Whether the vehicle has active insurance.
• Whether the existing insurance policy allows additional drivers.
• Whether you need to arrange separate short-term insurance to be legally covered.

One of the simplest ways to ensure cover is to take out a short-term insurance policy, which could provide flexible cover for the duration of your stay. Alternatively, the car owner may be able to add you as a named driver, though this process can take some time.

3. Does the Car Have a Valid MOT and Tax?

In the UK, most vehicles over three years old must pass an annual MOT test to ensure they are roadworthy. Additionally, vehicles must be taxed to be legally driven on public roads.

Before borrowing a car, confirm that:

• The car has a valid MOT (if required).
• The vehicle is properly taxed.
• The road tax has not expired.

A quick online check using the car’s registration number can confirm its MOT and tax status. Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT (unless you’re driving it directly to a test centre for a pre-booked test) could result in fines or even the vehicle being impounded.

4. Is the Car in Good Condition?

Before driving off, take a moment to inspect the car’s condition. You wouldn’t want to find yourself stranded on the side of a country lane because you didn’t check the basics.

Things to look for include:

• Tyre pressure and tread depth.
• Fluid levels (oil, coolant, screenwash).
• Lights and indicators are all working properly.
• The fuel level - especially if the car owner has a habit of running on empty!

Taking a few minutes to check these details could save you a lot of trouble later.

5. Do You Know the UK Road Rules?

The UK has some tailored road rules that may be different from what you’re used to, including:

• Driving on the left-hand side of the road.
• Roundabouts are common, and knowing how to negotiate them is a thoroughly good idea.
• Speed limits vary by road type - motorways typically have a 70 mph limit, whilst urban areas are usually 30 mph unless otherwise stated.
• Using a mobile phone whilst driving is illegal, even if you’re at a red light.

Taking a few moments to familiarise yourself with these rules could help you avoid confusion or fines.

6. Are There Any Driving Restrictions on the Car?

Some cars have specific restrictions that you should be aware of before borrowing them. Some possibilities are:

• Any restrictions on travelling outside of the UK (some insurance policies don’t cover driving abroad).
• Congestion charge zones, such as in London, where driving requires an additional daily fee.
• Private parking permits or restrictions in certain areas.

Failing to check these details could lead to unexpected fines or invalidated insurance.

7. Do You Have Breakdown Cover?

No one plans to break down, but it’s always best to be prepared. Ask the car owner whether the vehicle has roadside assistance and keep the contact details handy just in case.

If breakdown cover isn’t included, you might want to consider arranging temporary cover for a reliable feeling, especially if you’re planning long-distance travel.

8. Have You Agreed on the Terms of Borrowing?

Whilst it may feel unnecessary when borrowing from a friend or family member, it’s always a good idea to clarify expectations beforehand, such as:

• Who is responsible for refuelling?
• What happens if the car is damaged?
• Are there any restrictions on where you can take the car?

Sorting out these details beforehand could help prevent misunderstandings later.

Thoughts at the End:

Borrowing a car in the UK as a visitor is perfectly possible, but there are several important checks to make first. Ensuring you have a valid licence, confirming insurance cover, checking the car’s legal status, and understanding UK road rules might help keep you safe and on the right side of the law.

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