Passing your driving test is a huge milestone—but once the celebrations are over, it’s time to make sure you’re fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with life on the road. In the UK, there are several legal and practical obligations you must meet as a new driver to stay safe and compliant.

At Surrey Driving Force, we don’t just teach people how to drive—we help them become responsible, informed motorists. This essential checklist covers all the things new UK drivers need to know about insurance, tax, and the legalities of car ownership.

✅ 1. Insurance: No Policy, No Driving

You legally must have valid car insurance before driving on UK roads. Driving without it can lead to:

  • A £300 fine

  • Six penalty points

  • Potential vehicle seizure

  • Disqualification and even court prosecution in serious cases

Types of Insurance:

  • Third Party Only: The minimum legal requirement; covers damage to other people and their property.

  • Third Party, Fire & Theft: Includes fire damage and theft.

  • Fully Comprehensive: Covers third parties and your own vehicle.

For new drivers, premiums can be high, so consider:

  • Black box (telematics) insurance to track safe driving

  • Adding an experienced named driver (with their permission)

  • Avoiding modifications, which can increase costs

Always compare policies carefully and make sure your details are accurate. Lying on your insurance application can invalidate the policy and leave you unprotected.

✅ 2. Vehicle Tax: Check It’s Paid

All vehicles driven or parked on public roads in the UK must be taxed, even if the cost is £0 (as with some eco-friendly vehicles).

You’ll need:

  • The vehicle’s registration number

  • A recent V5C logbook or green ‘new keeper’ slip

  • A valid MOT certificate (if applicable)

  • A means of payment

You can tax your vehicle online via the official GOV.UK portal.

Important: Tax is non-transferable when buying a used car—you’ll need to tax it yourself even if the previous owner already had it covered.

✅ 3. MOT: Make Sure the Car Is Roadworthy

If your car is more than three years old, it must pass an annual MOT test. This check ensures your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive.

Driving without a valid MOT can:

  • Invalidate your insurance

  • Result in a fine of up to £1,000

  • Leave you legally liable if you’re involved in an accident

Check your MOT status or book an MOT via gov.uk.

✅ 4. Driving Licence Details: Keep Them Current

Ensure your licence details are up to date. You must inform the DVLA if:

  • You change address

  • You change your name

  • Your photo licence expires (usually every 10 years)

You can update your licence online quickly through gov.uk.

Also, never lend your licence to someone else—this is illegal and could result in prosecution.

✅ 5. Know the New Drivers Act Rules

For the first two years after you pass your driving test, you are subject to the New Drivers Act. If you get six or more points on your licence in that time:

  • Your licence will be revoked

  • You must reapply for a provisional licence

  • You’ll need to retake both your theory and practical tests

Common offences include:

  • Using a mobile phone while driving (6 points + £200 fine)

  • Speeding

  • Driving without insurance

  • Careless or dangerous driving

Avoid risky behaviour and keep your licence clean—it’s your gateway to freedom.

✅ 6. Legal Equipment You Must Have

It’s worth carrying a few essential items in your car to ensure you’re prepared for roadside emergencies. While not always a legal requirement in the UK, they are strongly advised:

  • Warning triangle

  • High-vis vest or jacket

  • Spare tyre or puncture repair kit

  • Phone charger or power bank

  • First aid kit

Also, keep your insurance documents, MOT certificate, and V5C logbook somewhere safe and accessible if needed.

✅ 7. Check Your Licence Points and Vehicle Records Online

The DVLA offers free online services so you can:

  • Check your driving licence for penalty points

  • See what vehicles are registered to you

  • View MOT and tax status

Visit gov.uk/view-driving-licence and sign in with your licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode.

✅ 8. Be Aware of the Law Around Mobile Phones

It is illegal to use a hand-held phone while driving—even if you’re stopped at traffic lights or in a queue. You can only use a phone if you:

  • Have hands-free access

  • Use a cradle or mount

  • Are fully in control of the vehicle

New drivers caught using a phone can lose their licence immediately due to the 6-point penalty.

Final Thoughts

The freedom that comes with passing your test is amazing—but with it comes responsibility. By understanding and following the legal requirements of driving in the UK, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure your safety and that of others.

At Surrey Driving Force, we’re proud to guide our learners beyond the test. If you have any questions about what comes next—or if you’d like to book extra lessons or a Pass Plus course—we’re always happy to help.

Drive smart, stay legal, and enjoy the road ahead!