Driving law changes you missed in October

GB News has rounded up the most important driving law changes introduced over the last month that you may have missed.

Driving licences

Northern Ireland introduced new driving licence restrictions at the start of the month to reduce the number of young people involved in accidents.

In 2024, 164 people were killed or seriously injured in collisions where a car driver aged between 17 and 23 was responsible.

While the age group accounts for just eight per cent of driving licences, they made up 24 per cent of fatal or serious collisions.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: “Road safety is a significant priority for me and my Department, and GDL will play an important role in supporting road users, improving road safety and reducing the risk faced by new drivers and motorcycle riders.”

The Graduated Driving Licence includes:

• The introduction of a six-month mandatory minimum learning period (this will not apply to motorcyclists)
• A Programme of Training and a compulsory learner Logbook
• Removal of the current 45mph speed restriction for learners and newly qualified drivers
• Introduction of a passenger-carrying restriction between 11pm and 6am for new drivers under 24 years of age (this will not apply to motorcyclists)
• Extension of the current 12-month restriction period to a 24-month “new driver/motorcycle rider” period
• A requirement to display a distinguishing mark (a new style “R” plate) on the new driver/motorcycle rider’s vehicle for two years after receiving a full licence

MOT tests

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) announced in mid-October that MOT testers must accept ECE-approved LED replacement (LEDr) bulbs in compatible halogen headlamp units.

This will apply to Class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles with existing halogen headlamp units that are fitted with ECE-approved LED replacement bulbs.

Any ECE-approved LED replacement products must come with a secure approval sticker, which must be permanently fixed to the vehicle.

Fuel

October began with the UK seeing the highest-ever average diesel prices recorded at 200.11p per litre, with costs falling just a few pence since.

Oil shocks around the world caused by the war between the United States and Iran caused prices at the pumps to soar to record levels.

To combat the high costs, Chancellor John Healey announced in the Budget that the fuel duty freeze would be extended until July 2027.

He said: “Earlier this year, the Government extended the 5p cut to Fuel Duty and slashed red diesel to its lowest rate in over 20 years.

“With the war in the Middle East still driving high fuel prices, I am extending these tax cuts for motorists through the winter and spring to July.”

Electric vehicles

Labour slashed red tape in October to help drivers save around £300 on charging at home without a driveway.

Motorists can avoid planning permission to install cross-pavement chargers, delivering savings of up to £300.

The Budget also brought a £100 boost over the next two years to lower the cost of local, lower-power public chargers.

This is estimated to save the average EV driver without home charging and who charges on-street around £150 a year.

Oxford Street

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has overseen the pedestrianisation of Oxford Street, describing it as a “momentous” occasion for the shopping district.

Private motorised vehicles, buses, taxis, private hire vehicles, cycles, scooters and pedicabs will be banned on the section of Oxford Street between Orchard Street and Great Portland Street.

Sir Khan added: “I’m hugely excited to see my bold vision for Oxford Street coming to life from today.

“I encourage everyone to explore and enjoy the newly traffic-free street, as we create a new vibrant destination that welcomes Londoners and visitors from around the world.”