The UK motoring landscape is undergoing a significant transformation this March. As the government accelerates its “Plan for Drivers” and pushes toward net-zero targets, motorists face a wave of new regulations, stricter enforcement, and updated tax structures. These changes aren’t just about administrative updates; they carry heavy financial penalties and the risk of license points for those caught off-guard. Staying informed is no longer optional—it is a necessity for keeping your driving record clean and your running costs manageable.
The New ’26’ Number Plates and Plate Enforcement
Starting March 1, 2026, all newly registered vehicles in the UK will bear the “26” identifier. While a new plate is often a point of pride for car buyers, it also signals a period of heightened enforcement regarding number plate legality. The DVSA and police forces are deploying advanced Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras capable of spotting non-compliant plates with unprecedented accuracy. “Ghost plates”—reflective plates designed to evade speed cameras—are a primary target, with owners facing immediate fines of £100. Furthermore, any plates that are dirty, faded, or have illegal “3D” or “4D” lettering that deviates from British Standard BS AU 145e can lead to a failed MOT and a police stop.
Major Changes to Driving Test Bookings
In an effort to tackle the persistent backlog of learner drivers, the DVSA is implementing a strict new booking system this spring. Previously, driving instructors could book and manage multiple test slots on behalf of their students. From Spring 2026, only the learner driver themselves is permitted to book or amend their practical test. This move is designed to eliminate “booking bots” and third-party resellers who have been inflating costs and hoarding slots.
| Feature | Current Rule | New Rule (March 2026) |
| Who can book? | Learner or Instructor | Learner Only |
| Rescheduling Limit | Up to 6 times | Maximum 2 times |
| Notice for Cancellation | 3 Working Days | 10 Working Days |
| Test Centre Location | Any UK Centre | Local/Nearby Centres Only |
Stricter Safety Penalties: Seatbelts and Mobile Use
Road safety remains a top priority, and the penalties for common offenses have been stiffened to act as a more effective deterrent. A major shift in 2026 involves seatbelt compliance. While previously a fine-only offense, the government has proposed adding three penalty points to a driver’s license for failing to wear a seatbelt, or for carrying passengers who are unbelted. Additionally, the crackdown on mobile phone use continues to intensify. Holding any device that can send or receive data—even while stationary at a red light—now carries a mandatory £200 fine and six penalty points, which can lead to an immediate ban for new drivers within their first two years of passing.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Tax and Charging Updates
The “free ride” for electric vehicle owners is officially coming to a close this spring. From April 2026, many EV owners will be integrated into the standard Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) system. For those taking delivery of luxury EVs in March, pay close attention to the list price. The “Expensive Car Supplement”—an additional tax on vehicles costing over £40,000—is being adjusted. To protect the mid-market EV sector, the threshold for this supplement is expected to rise to £50,000 for zero-emission vehicles, providing some relief to those choosing premium electric models over traditional combustion engines.
New Vision and Health Standards for Older Drivers
For drivers aged 70 and over, the renewal process is becoming more rigorous. The DVLA has moved away from a simple “tick-box” self-declaration of fitness. Older motorists are now encouraged—and in some cases required—to provide evidence of a recent eye examination. If a driver cannot clearly read a standard number plate from 20 metres, their license renewal can be refused. This shift toward “mandatory-style” vision checks aims to reduce age-related accidents and ensures that everyone behind the wheel meets modern safety benchmarks.
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) Implementation
If you are purchasing a brand-new car with the March “26” registration, it will likely come equipped with Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA). This technology uses GPS and cameras to detect local speed limits and automatically restricts the vehicle’s speed or provides haptic feedback to the driver. While the system can be manually overridden, it defaults to “On” every time the engine starts. This is part of a broader UK-EU alignment on vehicle safety standards intended to drastically reduce speeding-related fatalities over the next decade.
Clean Air Zones and London Congestion Charges
Urban driving continues to become more expensive. In London, the Congestion Charge remains at £15 (rising to £18 if not paid via Auto Pay), but the exemptions for electric vehicles have been significantly scaled back. As of January 2026, the 100% “Cleaner Vehicle Discount” has expired. EV drivers now only receive a 25% discount, meaning they must pay for the privilege of entering central London. Similar Clean Air Zone (CAZ) expansions are expected in other major UK cities throughout March and April, targeting older petrol and diesel vehicles with higher daily entry fees.
FAQs
Q1. Can I still use my phone as a Sat-Nav while driving?
Yes, but only if it is secured in a fixed dashboard or windscreen mount. You are strictly prohibited from holding the device at any time, including when stopped in traffic or at red lights.
Q2. What happens if I fail to renew my license at 70?
Driving with an expired license is a serious offense that can lead to a fine of up to £1,000 and the seizure of your vehicle. You must renew every three years after turning 70.
Q3. Do the new seatbelt rules apply to my passengers?
Yes. As the driver, you are legally responsible for ensuring children under 14 are correctly restrained. For adult passengers, both the driver and the passenger can now face fines and potentially penalty points.