UK Drivers Face Higher Costs as New Motoring Rules and Charges Take Effect

Starting from the 1st of March, drivers across the UK face an array of new driving rules and related costs. Being unaware of these updates could result in unexpected expenses and even hefty fines for drivers. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has introduced new Advisory Fuel Rates, adjustments that affect company car allowances when employees undertake business travel. For diesel cars with engines up to 1,600 cubic centimeters (cc), rates are now increasing from 11 pence per mile (ppm) to 12 ppm. Meanwhile, petrol vehicles in the 1,401 to 2,000cc engine range see a rise from 14 ppm to 15 ppm.

Electric vehicle (EV) owners receive some positive news since advisory fuel rates for electric cars will remain unchanged at 7 ppm, calculated using figures from the Department for Energy and Net Zero. These revised rates officially apply from the 1st of March, although employers have an additional month's flexibility to use the previous rates.

Simultaneously, new vehicle registration plates labeled '25' will emerge in March, signifying vehicles registered from the 1st of March 2025 onwards. Drivers interested in obtaining personalised vehicle number plates should consider regulations carefully. Failure to adhere strictly to these rules—particularly those prohibiting the display of plates that suggest a newer vehicle registration than is true—could incur penalties such as a £1,000 fine and plate confiscation without compensation. Vehicles registered in March 2015, for example, must display plates indicating '15' and must not feature later years such as '16' or '17'.

Furthermore, number plates are issued twice annually in the UK, in March and September. The second annual installment of plates always starts with a seven; this year, therefore, the September series will display '75'. Compliance with number plate regulations also extends to clear criteria regarding shape, font, colour, and visibility as specified by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which offers resources to help motorists follow these guidelines.

£190 for regular passenger cars, £335 for vans, and £25 for motorcycles.

In addition, EVs valued over £40,000 will also encounter the Expensive Car Supplement from April onwards. This extra fee, already applicable to other vehicle types since 2017, adds £195 onto the standard car tax expense.

Lastly, adherence to these updated traffic and ownership regulations remains crucial for both safe and affordable driving. A recent report indicates that the DVLA has revoked licences from approximately 140,000 UK drivers, highlighting areas where driver compliance remains particularly problematic.