Motoring guides and tools

Medical problems and driving

Some medical conditions affect your driving ability. You might need to report them to the DVLA and declare them on your car insurance.

Speed awareness courses

If you're caught speeding, you could be offered to attend a speed awareness course instead of being fined and getting points on your licence.

Is it cheaper to lease or buy a car?

There are a wide range of options when it comes to purchasing a car, so we’ve weighed up the pros and cons to help you choose the right option for you.

Parking laws

Parking restrictions are usually in place for safety reasons. You can be fined, clamped or towed if you park in the wrong place.

Advanced driving courses

Discover the benefits of IAM, Pass Plus and other advanced driving courses and if they can help to lower your car insurance premiums.

Driving licenses

Learn about the different types of driving licence, including provisional, UK full, European licences and the International Driving Permit.

Teaching a learner to drive

Understand what a new driver has to learn, and what the legal implications are, before you teach a first-timer how to drive.

Keyless theft

Find out how thieves are using legal gadgets to steal keyless cars and what you can do to help stop them taking yours. Plus, what have jeans got to do with it?

Buying and selling cars privately

You’ll usually get a better deal than on the forecourt. Read our need-to-know before you buy or sell for yourself.

How to check a car’s history

It’s much easier to check a car’s history than it used to be, but there are common things you need to look out for.

Driving licenses

Find information on the types of driving licence available. Including provisional, UK full and automatic, European licences and the International Driving Permit.

Driving safely with pets

Driving safely with an animal in your car is a legal requirement. If you’re not careful, you could invalidate your car and/or pet insurance.

Driving under the influence of drugs

Find out more about driving under the influence of drugs, and the impact on your car insurance. Whether prescription or illegal.

Motorbike tax guide

Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) applies to motorcycles as well as cars. Find out how to pay and how much it’ll cost for your bike.

The IIADD database

The Insurance Industry Access to Driver Data (IIADD) database gives participating insurers access to your information held by the DVLA. It can mean easier and more accurate car insurance quotes.

Fuel-efficient cars

Fuel is probably your biggest expense as a driver. Find out more about good fuel economy, emissions and our run-down of fuel-efficient cars.

MOT checklist

Essential MOT info, plus how to get your car ready and keep them affordable.

Distractions at the wheel

Significant numbers of UK drivers are risking safety, driving bans and affordable car insurance premiums by multi-tasking at the wheel.

Guide to number plates

Find out what the numbers and letters on vehicle registration plates stand for, with information on legal requirements, replacements and personalised plates.

Fuel prices

Fuel prices are a common concern. But don’t make the mistake of driving miles for cheaper fuel - it could be a false economy.

Smoking in cars

Find out more about the latest laws around smoking in cars with children.

Traffic accidents involving animals

Find out what to do do if you're ever in a traffic accident with a deer, dog or cat

Winter driving guide

Make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for anything from a cold snap to extreme weather.

Electric cars and congestion charges

Congestion charges in London and other cities are an effort by the government to cut emissions. Find out what type of cars are exempt and whether drivers of electric cars might have to start paying the charge in future.

Researching Britain’s roads: What challenges do van drivers face?

We explore the challenges faced by van drivers in the UK, including financial difficulties and mental health issues.

5 things you shouldn’t do while driving

We all know not to drink and drive or use our mobile phones. But what about smoking, or splashing your mates as they walk past a puddle?