Major UK Driving Reforms Proposed for 2026 Implementation
The Department for Transport has unveiled a comprehensive new Road Safety Strategy that could transform driving regulations across Britain. These proposals, currently open for public consultation until March, represent the most significant potential overhaul of motoring rules in years.
Older Driver Safety Measures
Drivers aged 70 and above face substantial changes under the proposed system. The government is considering mandatory eyesight tests every three years upon licence renewal, replacing the current self-reporting approach. Additionally, authorities are exploring the introduction of cognitive testing for older motorists to ensure continued fitness to drive.
Learner and New Driver Restrictions
Novice drivers could encounter stricter requirements before taking to the roads independently. Proposals include a mandatory minimum learning period of three to six months to ensure experience in varied conditions. New drivers under 20 might face restrictions on carrying passengers aged 25 or under during their first six months of driving.
Drink and Drug Driving Crackdown
The government is consulting on reducing England and Wales' legal alcohol limit to match Scotland's stricter 50mg per 100ml of blood threshold. For repeat offenders, authorities are considering the implementation of "alcolock" devices that prevent vehicle ignition if alcohol is detected. Police may also gain enhanced powers to immediately suspend licences of suspected offenders before court proceedings.
Enhanced Penalties and Enforcement
Seatbelt enforcement would become significantly stricter under the proposals. Drivers could receive penalty points rather than just fines for failing to wear seatbelts, and may be held responsible if passengers under 17 are unrestrained. The strategy also includes a crackdown on illegal "ghost" number plates through stricter supplier regulations and increased AI-powered camera surveillance.
Vehicle Technology and Safety Standards
New vehicles would be required to incorporate 18 advanced safety technologies under proposed "Dev's Law" legislation. These include autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance systems. The government also plans to establish a new Road Safety Investigation Branch to analyse collision trends and identify root causes.
Additional Safety Initiatives
Other proposed measures include:
- Overhauled motorcycle training and licensing to reduce high casualty rates
- A National Work-Related Road Safety Charter for professional drivers
- Updated theory tests including CPR and defibrillator questions from 2026
- Official terminology shifting from "accident" to "collision" to emphasize preventability
These proposals form part of the government's ambitious target to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 65% by 2035. With statistics showing four daily fatalities on UK roads, authorities believe these comprehensive changes could prevent numerous tragedies through a more proactive approach to road safety.
