Driving in Scotland - Practical information

What side of the road do I drive on in Scotland?

Always drive on the left hand side of the road.

What is the speed limit in Scotland?

Speed limits are regularly signposted - look out for a circular sign, with a red border and number (in miles per hour).

If there's no signpost, national speed limits apply. These are:

Motorways

• 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars.
• 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.

Dual carriageways

• 70 mph (112 km/h) for cars.
• 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.

Single carriageways

• 60 mph (96 km/h) for cars.
• 50 mph (80 km/h) for cars towing caravans or trailers.

Built-up areas

• 30 mph (48 km/h) or 20 mph (32 km/h), which is now quite common in city and town centres.

Find out more on speed limits for all types of vehicles

What licence do I need to drive in Scotland?

• If you're coming from a European Union country - as long as you have a valid licence, you can drive any type of vehicle listed on your license in Scotland.
• If you're coming from outside the EU - as long as you have a valid licence from your own country, you can drive any small vehicle (e.g. car or motorcycle) in the UK for up to 12 months.

Check you are eligible to drive in Scotland

What is the drink drive limit in Scotland?

Driving under the influence of alcohol is taken very seriously in Scotland and the UK and there can be heavy penalties for those found to be above the legal blood/alcohol limit.

The legal limit is 50 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood.

Read more about the drink-drive limit in Scotland

What insurance and registration do I need?

If you're bringing your own car, you'll need:

• Vehicle registration or ownership documents with you at all times.
• Insurance - every driver on the road in Scotland must have at least third-party insurance cover.
• If you're going to be here for more than six months (during a 12 month period), you'll need to be aware of rules on number plates that have symbols not used in the UK.

How do I plan my driving route around Scotland?

Plan your own road trip using:

• RAC Route Planner
• AA Route Planner

You can also plan using the Traffic Scotland website. The Route Checker has all the latest information about traffic jams, accidents, road works, and more. You can also stay up to date by tuning into Traffic Scotland Radio:

• Traffic Scotland Route Checker
• Traffic Scotland Radio

Remember to plan parking in advance. There is often a shortage of parking spaces in popular areas such as national parks during the high season. Park responsibly by not blocking access for farm machinery and emergency vehicles.

You should also plan your accommodation ahead of time. This will prevent tiredness while driving around trying to find somewhere to stay. If you plan on camping, check which campsites are open and pre-book. You should also check if your chosen site is in an area which requires a permit. Always obey the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. 

What are the most scenic driving routes in Scotland?

There’s beautiful scenery to explore wherever you visit in Scotland.

Pass farmland, woodland and rolling hills in the south and east, see towering mountains stretching above you in the rugged west and north and stop to wander along paradise beaches on Scotland’s islands.

How long does it take to drive around Scotland?

You could spend as long as you like exploring Scotland. Scotland is a relatively small country so it shouldn’t take you too long to travel between destinations, and there will be lots of great places to stop and visit enroute.

Driving rules

• Seatbelts are compulsory for all drivers and passengers in the vehicle.
• It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. You must also have proper control while using hands-free.
• Children under 12 who are under 135 cm (4 ft 5 in) tall should use a child seat appropriate for their weight. You can order one through the hire company.

Changes to the Highway Code

The Highway Code is the UK's guide to the rules of the road. It was updated recently to introduce a hierarchy of road users, and this means some changes to when drivers should prioritise pedestrians or cyclists.

Check out this handy guide for drivers on the Highway Code changes

Find out more information on driver responsibilities and the law

Driving hazards to look out for

• Some main arterial roads can be long and winding. This can make overtaking dangerous and lengthen journey times.
• Campervans, caravans and other large RVs are frequently found on routes to and around popular visitor destinations, especially in the summer - even on narrow country roads.
• Cyclists and motorcyclists are also common driving hazards during the summer period.
• Passing places on single-lane country roads which allow vehicles to pull over and let the oncoming vehicles have right of way. These are sometimes referred to as 'pockets' on the islands.
• You might encounter some farm animals or wildlife on rural roads so always take care. Look out for deer crossing signs. 
• You should always look and listen out for ambulances, fire engines, police, doctors or other emergency vehicles using flashing blue, red or green lights and sirens or flashing headlights.

Roundabouts, roads and bridges

• Roundabouts are common in Scotland. Give way to vehicles from your right, and turn left on entering the roundabout.
• There are no toll roads or toll bridges in Scotland.
• As mentioned, some rural roads are single lane, but have passing places so traffic in opposite directions can pass safely or the driver behind can overtake. Check the UK Highway Code for more information.

Driving in towns and cities

• Generally, roads tend to be busier around towns and cities during morning and evening rush hours - generally from 7.30 - 9.30am and 4 - 6.30pm.
• Bus lanes are used in some cities - they can only be used by buses and taxis when in operation at certain times of the day.