UK Driving Rules and Information
with Gatwick Car Rentals
Driving in the UK
This section is designed to help foreign travellers get to grips with driving in the UK. For much of the world we in the UK drive on the wrong side of the road, so it's important to make sure you understand some of the basics before venturing out into UK traffic for the first time.
Driving Licences
A driving licence must have a officially recognised English translation if not originally printed in this language. Most European countries (including the UK) honour a valid US licence. To comply with this requirement, if your licence does not have an English translation, you can carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
An IDP is written in nine languages and serves as an officially recognised translation of your licence. They can be issued to anyone over 18 years of age or older, and are valid for one year.
Age restrictions
To hire a vehicle with Gatwick Car Rentals you must be over 23 and under 70 years old for the full duration of your rental. If you are aged 23 or 24 you will be subject to a young driver surcharge.
Car Sizes
Keep in mind European vehicles are typically smaller than in the US, so make sure you get one big enough to suit your needs.
Credit Cards
You may pay for your rental, over a secure server, with American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Diners Club credit cards. We hope this range encompasses your choice of payment and are sorry if this causes any inconvenience to your travel plans.
Check your vehicle
On collection of your vehicle please take a little time to check the condition of the vehicle, make a comfortable driving position, and familiarise yourself with the controls. Check that you have a full tank as you are expected to return it in this state.
What petrol
UK petrol stations are almost all self-service. All Gatwick Car Rentals vehicles use either unleaded petrol (gas) or diesel (derv). To calculate how much you're putting in your tank: 1US gal. = 3.79 litres, 1 UK gal = 1.2 U.S. gal.
Breakdowns
All Gatwick Car Rentals vehicles have 24-hour emergency roadside assistance for your peace of mind.