Using an Australian Licence in the UK
Visitors from Australia can normally drive in the UK using their Australian driving licence for a limited period, provided the licence is valid and the vehicle is properly insured. Roads, signage and traffic flow are familiar because both countries drive on the left, but UK roads are often narrower and more congested, particularly outside major motorways. Insurance must still meet UK legal requirements regardless of where the driver is from.
Temporary Insurance Options
Most visitors use temporary car insurance when borrowing a vehicle from friends or family. These policies usually run from a single day up to several weeks and insure the visitor directly rather than altering the owner’s policy. Cover levels and excess amounts vary, so drivers should check what damage, theft and third-party risks are included before driving.
Borrowing Compared with Renting
Borrowing a car is common when visiting relatives, but insurance responsibility lies with whoever is driving. Rental vehicles include insurance arranged by the rental firm, while borrowed cars normally require a separate temporary policy so the owner’s no-claims record and main cover remain unaffected if an incident occurs.
What Policies Usually Leave Out
Temporary visitor policies often exclude:
- Driving for business or delivery work
- Use outside permitted UK or European areas
- High-value vehicles or performance cars
- Drivers below insurer age limits
- Unapproved additional drivers
Conditions differ between insurers, so checking limits before travel avoids problems when collecting a vehicle.
Accidents, Breakdowns and Claims
If an accident happens, drivers normally exchange details, document damage and notify insurers as soon as practical. Police involvement may be required if injuries occur or vehicles obstruct traffic. Breakdown cover is separate from insurance but may be useful for visitors driving long distances, particularly in rural areas where recovery services can take longer to reach stranded vehicles.
Insurance Matters Throughout the Visit
Insurance remains valid only for the policy period and named driver, so extensions or new policies may be needed if plans change or different vehicles are used. Having suitable cover in place allows visitors to drive legally while staying with friends or touring Britain by road.