7 Changes to Driving Laws You May Not Be Aware of in 2025
As we head into 2025, the UK is rolling out some significant changes to driving laws that could impact how we drive, how much we pay, and how we navigate the roads. Whether you're cruising in a petrol car, zipping around in an electric vehicle (EV), or still holding on to your trusty diesel, here’s what you need to know. Some of these shifts might make you cheer, others may have you scratching your head—but all of them are worth keeping an eye on.
1. Fuel Finder Scheme to Be Rolled Out
By the end of 2025, all petrol stations in the UK will be required to share real-time fuel prices, thanks to the launch of the Fuel Finder scheme. This is a total game-changer for anyone tired of driving around searching for the cheapest pump price—hello, convenience!
What’s Changing?
- Petrol stations will now provide up-to-date pricing and fuel availability every 30 minutes.
- It’ll be easier to spot the cheapest stations and avoid getting stung at the pump.
What Does This Mean for You?
We at MotorEasy love this change, fluctuating fuel prices have been the bane of every driver’s existence, but Fuel Finder will make it easier to find a good deal without guessing where to stop. We’re already seeing the rise of fuel comparison websites and apps—expect more of those soon. If you're sick of feeling like you're paying over the odds, you’ll love this change. For now if you want to avoid overpaying at the pump, we recommend you checkout the fuel comparison lookup on the carwow web site.
2. Benefit in Kind (BiK) Tax Set to Increase for All Vehicles in 2025/26
If you're one of the many drivers who’ve taken advantage of a salary sacrifice scheme to buy a car through your company, brace yourself for a tax hike in 2025. The Benefit in Kind (BiK) tax, which is linked to your vehicle’s CO2 emissions, is about to rise across the board.
What’s Changing?
- Starting April 2025, BiK rates will increase by 1% across all tax brackets, including fully electric vehicles.
- For zero-emission EVs, the BiK rate will rise from 2% to 3%.
- Cars that emit more CO2 will face higher rates, reaching up to 37% for vehicles producing over 154g/km CO2.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re driving a company car through a salary sacrifice scheme, expect to pay more tax from April 2025. While the increase for electric vehicles is fairly modest (just a 1% bump), it’s still something to factor into your budget. For those driving petrol or diesel vehicles, the tax burden could become significantly steeper as emissions rise. The silver lining? This change might push more people towards greener vehicles, but if you've been enjoying the lower BiK rates, it’s time to start planning for a little extra in tax.
3. Electric Vehicles Lose Tax-Free Perk
Goodbye to the days of EVs cruising along without a tax bill. Starting April 1, 2025, the government will be slapping a tax on new electric vehicles.
What’s Changing?
- New EVs will face a £10 charge in the first year, followed by £195 annually.
- If your shiny new EV is worth more than £40,000, you’ll also pay an Expensive Car Supplement of £410 for the next five years.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re thinking of making the switch to an electric car, make sure to factor in these new costs—EVs might be cheaper to run overall, but they’re not entirely free of costs anymore. If you're an EV enthusiast, don't panic. This is still a pretty small price to pay for cleaner driving, but it does mark the end of an era.
4. Fuel Duty Freeze Continues
For those sticking with petrol or diesel vehicles, here's some good news: the fuel duty freeze is continuing into 2025/26, meaning you won't see a hike in fuel prices from the tax side—at least for now.
What’s Changing?
- The fuel duty remains at 52.95p per litre through March 2026.
What Does This Mean for You?
Fuel costs have been rising fast in recent years, so this freeze is a bit of relief for your pocketbook. No surprise price hikes at the pump from the government, at least for the next year. But if you're eyeing a long-term driving strategy, remember that the future is likely heading toward more zero-emission vehicles, which might shift this dynamic.
5. Congestion Charge Exemptions Scrapped
If you live in or frequently visit London, things are about to change—again. Starting December 25, 2025, even electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles will no longer be exempt from the city's congestion charge.
What’s Changing?
- Electric and hydrogen vehicles, which were previously exempt, will now have to pay the £15 daily congestion charge to drive in central London.
What Does This Mean for You?
Bummer for those of you driving EVs in the capital—you no longer get to skip the £15 fee. While it's a blow to EV owners who've been enjoying congestion-free city travel, it's also worth considering the bigger picture: this charge could help reduce overall traffic and pollution in central London, making the city a bit more liveable. But, yeah, still frustrating.
6. New £10k Fines for Non-Compliant EV Chargers
In another win for EV drivers, the UK is tightening its grip on unreliable EV chargers. Starting in 2025, charging stations must meet higher standards, and providers who fail to comply will face serious penalties.
What’s Changing?
- EV chargers must meet new standards for reliability, accessibility, and payment options.
- Providers who fall short could face fines of up to £10,000 per charger.
What Does This Mean for You?
Finally, a bit of consistency for EV owners! If you’ve ever been stuck at a charger that’s out of order or impossible to use, you’ll appreciate this change. It’ll make charging your car more reliable and stress-free. While it’s not all sunshine and rainbows just yet (it'll take time to roll out), these changes will make your experience as an EV driver a whole lot easier.
7. Scotland’s Nationwide 20mph Speed Limit
In 2025, Scotland will introduce a 20mph speed limit for all urban and residential areas, following in the footsteps of Wales, who made this move first.
What’s Changing?
- Most urban roads will now have a 20mph speed limit, making the streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Areas like Edinburgh and Glasgow already have this in place, but now it’s going nationwide.
What Does This Mean for You?
Yes, it might feel like you’re driving slower than you'd like, especially if you’re used to zipping through town. But if it saves lives and makes communities safer, it’s hard to argue with. Slower speeds mean fewer accidents and less pollution. Sure, some drivers might grumble, but ultimately, it’s about creating better, safer streets for everyone.
Wrapping Up
As driving laws continue to evolve, it’s clear that the UK is aiming for a future that’s safer, greener, and more efficient—though not everyone will agree on the best way to get there. From real-time fuel pricing to lower speed limits and EV infrastructure improvements, these changes are designed to help us navigate the road ahead. Stay informed, adapt, and get ready for a year of driving with a few new rules in place. Whether you're ready to embrace the future or not, it's coming—so best buckle up!
