Driving in Scotland

Scotland has an excellent road network with motorways and dual carriageway roads linking many of the main cities and towns. The primary road network extends over most of the country except for a few remote areas, where there are single track roads with passing places (this means that you have to draw in to let others pass or overtake). It is part of the pleasurable experience in getting away from traffic jams to drive on the quiet roads in Scotland. There are no tolls on the roads in Scotland but there are two bridges which have a toll charge - the Forth, and Tay bridges.

Driving on the Left
 Please remember that in Scotland, as elsewhere in the UK, driving is always on the left-hand side of the road.

Driving Licence and Insurance
 The holder of an overseas driving licence may, for a period of up to one year, drive a motor vehicle in Britain. Visitors bringing their own cars from overseas require green-card insurance and the car registration documents.

Drinking & Driving
 You are strongly advised not to drink and drive. If caught and convicted, the criminal penalties can be severe.

Speed Limits
 Unless otherwise signposted, speed limits on UK roads are


Unmarked police cars patrol regularly and remote speed cameras are positioned on many roads.

Fuel
 Many fuel stations throughout Scotland are open 24 hours a day and all provide unleaded petrol and diesel. In remote areas, distances between stations are greater and opening hours may be shorter. Fuel is priced and sold by the litre.

Seat Belts
 It is compulsory to wear seat belts, both front and rear. Small children and babies must be restrained in a appropriate child seat or carrier. Child seats should be ordered when you book your car.

The Highway Code
 The rules for driving in Britain can be found in The Highway Code , available from Her Majesty's Stationery Offices (i.e. government bookshops), other bookshops, newsagents and from motoring organisations such as the AA and the RAC.