New Driver Legislation

Are you ready for the changes coming to driving laws in 2023? In this post, we’ll explore several key legislative updates set to roll out during the year and discuss how they may impact you.

1. London’s Expanding Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London is undergoing its third expansion on August 29, 2023. Originally limited to parts of Central London within the North and South Circular Roads, the ULEZ will soon encompass all 33 London boroughs. If your vehicle doesn’t meet the stringent emission standards, driving within the ULEZ will incur a charge of £12.50 each time.

The primary goal of this expansion is to combat air pollution in the capital and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly vehicles or public transportation. You can use a vehicle checker to verify if your car complies with the emission standards.

2. TfL Scrappage Scheme

To support those affected by the ULEZ expansion, the Mayor of London has introduced a £110 million scrappage scheme. This program is open to Londoners who receive benefits, as well as small businesses and charities registered in the capital. For more details about this scheme, check out our dedicated article.

3. Fuel Duty Rates

Fuel duty, which was temporarily reduced by 5p to alleviate the rising fuel prices and the cost of living, was initially slated to return to normal on March 23, 2023. However, this increase has been postponed for another 12 months.

4. Benefit in Kind (BiK) Rates

Benefit in Kind (BiK), also known as company car tax, impacts individuals who use company vehicles for personal purposes. Over recent years, BiK rates have been on the rise. For instance, a petrol car emitting 100g/km emissions now incurs a 25% BiK rate, more than double the rate in 2013. The government has now announced that BiK rates will remain unchanged until April 2025. This freeze is intended to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles over traditional fossil-fueled company cars.

5. Electric Vehicle Tax

Starting in April 2025, electric vehicles registered from April 2017 will be subject to vehicle excise duty, commonly known as road tax. Electric cars registered after April 2025 will initially fall into the lowest tax bracket, paying only £10 in the first year, before transitioning to the standard rate, which is currently set at £165. Additionally, electric cars with a value exceeding £40,000 will incur an additional £355 charge, which was previously exempt. Nevertheless, electric car owners will continue to enjoy a 0% vehicle excise duty rate for the next two years, while owners of diesel and petrol cars will be subject to a minimum flat rate of £165.

6. Scotland’s Pavement Parking Ban

In 2019, Scotland announced a ban on parking on pavements and blocking dropped Kerbs in the Transport Act. However, this law has not yet been introduced. In 2021, the former Transport Secretary, Michael Matheson, indicated that the ban should be implemented by December 2023.

Stay informed about these upcoming changes to ensure you are prepared and compliant with the evolving driving laws in 2023. Whether you drive in London, use a company car, or own an electric vehicle, these legal updates could have a significant impact on your driving experience.

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