Drivers across the UK are being urged to prepare for a wave of major motoring law changes arriving in 2026.
From congestion charge increases to tougher drink-driving limits, several law updates will affect everything from commuting costs to essential safety checks.
At Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, we’re encouraging drivers get ahead of the changes before they come into effect to stay legal and avoid costly penalties.
Here are six key changes to watch.
If you drive into central London, this one matters.
From 2 January 2026, Transport for London will increase the Congestion Charge from £15 to £18 per day, for the first time since 2020.
Meanwhile, the current 100% Cleaner Vehicle Discount for electric vehicles ended on 25 December 2025. From January 2026, EVs will no longer be free to enter the zone. Instead:
- Electric cars get a 25% discount, so you pay £13.50 per day
- Electric vans, HGVs, and quadricycles get a 50% discount
- Discounts only apply if vehicles are registered for Auto Pay
If you commute into London, check your payment method and registration. Auto Pay will be the difference between paying full price and getting a discount.
The government has set out plans to reduce the drink-drive limit in England and Wales, as part of a new road safety strategy announced on 7 January 2026.
England is expected to adopt a drink-drive limit similar to Scotland’s, reducing the legal threshold from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 22 micrograms. In real terms, this means:
- One drink could be enough to put some drivers over the limit
- The safest option is not drinking at all if you plan to drive
There’s also a major consultation underway on eyesight testing for older drivers.
On 7 January 2026, the Department for Transport launched a consultation on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers.
Under proposals within the upcoming Road Safety Strategy, drivers aged 70 and over could be required to take compulsory eyesight tests every three years.
Currently, motorists self-declare that they meet eyesight standards, a system safety groups argue is outdated as age-related vision issues increase on UK roads.
“2026 is shaping up to be one of the most significant for driving law changes in recent memory. From congestion charge increases to tougher safety regulations, drivers need to stay fully informed to avoid unexpected fines and ensure they’re meeting new legal standards. Preparing early will make the transition smoother and help motorists stay compliant as the rules change.”
New rules are expected to introduce stricter penalties for failing to wear a seatbelt, for both drivers and passengers.
Proposals include tougher penalties for drivers and passengers who don’t wear a seatbelt, including penalty points alongside fines. This is expected under wider road safety plans.
Under the proposed changes, drivers could face:
- Three penalty points added to their licence
- A fine of up to £500 if the case goes to court
At present, offenders typically face a fine, with no penalty points.
If you carry passengers, remember that drivers can be held responsible for children not wearing seatbelts correctly.
Although fuel duty is currently frozen, plans suggest it could begin increasing in line with inflation.
Recent reporting says the Chancellor plans to keep fuel duty frozen until September 2026, then begin reversing the 5p cut and restart increases for the first time in 16 years.
If this goes ahead, petrol and diesel running costs could rise later in the year, making driving more costly, especially for motorist who travel high mileage.
Drug-driving enforcement is also expected to change.
Plans suggest police will be able to use saliva-based roadside tests as evidence in more cases, without needing a follow-up blood test every time.
This change is expected to speed up investigations and increase conviction rates.
A few quick actions can help you stay ahead:
- If you drive in London, register for Congestion Charge Auto Pay
- Plan for higher commuting costs if you rely on EV exemptions
- Treat the drink-drive limit as “none if driving”
- Book a routine eye test if you’re approaching 70, or supporting a family member who is
- Make seatbelts non-negotiable for every trip, even short journeys
- Keep an eye on Autumn Budget updates if fuel costs affect your monthly budget
Visit our Motoring Guides hub for more driving advice, including changes to UK road law.
Originally posted: 23rd January 2026
