But knowing how (and when) to use your lights properly isn’t just about avoiding fines – it’s about being safe, seen and confident behind the wheel. Here’s a simple breakdown of what the UK law says about car lights, plus a few practical tips from the Veygo team.

1. Lights aren’t just for night-time

If you’ve just passed your test, it’s easy to think headlights are only for when it’s dark. In reality, you’ll need them more often than you’d expect.

Rain, fog, spray from the car ahead – anything that cuts your visibility means it’s time to light up. If you can’t clearly see the car in front (or they might struggle to see you), switch on your dipped headlights. It’s safer and it keeps you within the law.

Modern cars with daytime running lights (DRLs) help, but they don’t always illuminate the rear of your car – so check that your tail lights are actually on when conditions get murky.

Veygo tip: When in doubt, lights on. Nobody ever failed a journey for being too visible.

2. Night driving 101

As soon as the sun sets, your lights become your voice on the road – they show others where you are, where you’re going, and how fast.

Use dipped headlights whenever street lighting isn’t enough. Full beam is brilliant on unlit roads, but remember to dip them again if someone’s coming towards you, or you’re following another car. It’s just good manners (and keeps everyone’s eyesight intact).

You technically can drive on sidelights alone in well-lit areas, but it’s not worth the risk – most drivers just keep their dipped beams on for better visibility.

And if you’re heading out late, give your lights a quick once-over before you set off. It’s an easy way to spot a dead bulb before someone else does.

3. Brake lights and signals

Brake lights and indicators might seem boring, but they’re the reason traffic doesn’t collapse into chaos.

If a brake bulb goes, other drivers have no warning you’re slowing down. That can end badly – or at least earn you a stop from the police. Check them regularly (a quick reverse up to a window or garage door shows if both sides light up).

Indicators, meanwhile, are your way of telling everyone what’s next. Use them early, clearly, and always cancel after the turn. As for hazard lights, save them for when you’ve had to stop somewhere unusual or need to warn people of danger ahead – not for thanking someone or pulling up briefly.

Veygo tip: get in the habit of doing a ‘light walkaround’ whenever you refuel. It takes 20 seconds and saves you a fine.

4. Fog lights

Fog lights are like espresso shots: great in moderation, a bit much otherwise.

They’re designed for serious visibility drops – think thick fog, snow, or spray where you can barely see 100 metres ahead. If the fog clears, turn them off. They’re brighter than your regular lights and can dazzle drivers behind you. Using them in normal conditions might even earn you a fixed-penalty fine.

So: if you can see the car in front, you probably don’t need your fogs. Simple.

Quick recap

• Bad weather: Dipped headlights.
• Dark or poorly lit road: Dipped or main beam (but don’t dazzle).
• Fog or heavy snow: Fog lights on – and off again when clear.
• Every drive: Make sure your brake and indicator lights all work.

5. Keep your lights legal and working

Beyond knowing when to use them, it’s also about keeping them in good shape.

• Clean them regularly – dirt can cut their brightness by half.
• Check for cracks, condensation or loose fittings.
• Replace blown bulbs straight away (many garages will do this on the spot).
• Avoid coloured or tinted lights that could confuse other drivers – they’re illegal and could invalidate your insurance.

Veygo tip: Keep a spare bulb kit in your glovebox. They’re cheap, small, and can save your night drive.

6. How this fits with Veygo and you

At Veygo, we get it – young drivers juggle a lot. Maybe you’re driving home from a night shift, heading to a uni lecture in the rain, or borrowing a friend’s car for the weekend. Whatever the journey, visibility matters.

Good lighting habits keep you safe, lower your risk of accidents, and show you’re a responsible driver – which is exactly the kind of behaviour insurers like to see.

In short: your lights protect more than your car. They protect your confidence on the road.

Final checklist for younger drivers

Before your next drive, run through this quick list:

• Are all your exterior lights working (headlights, brake lights, indicators)?
• Are your headlights on when visibility is low, or when it’s night?
• Are your fog lights off unless visibility is really poor (under 100 metres)?
• Are your lights clean and aligned properly?
• Got spare bulbs handy?

Stay visible. Stay safe. And drive smart.

The post What are the rules for car lights in the UK? appeared first on Veygo.

• Cat N – Non Structural
  Your car costs more to fix than it’s worth, but the main structure (the frame) isn’t damaged.
• Cat S – Structural
  Your car costs more to fix than it’s worth, and the main structure (the frame) is damaged.
• Cat B
  Your car is too badly damaged to ever go back on the road. Some parts may be recycled or reused, but the car itself can’t be kept on the road.
• Cat A
  The car can’t be repaired or recycled. It has to be completely destroyed.

Can I keep my car?

• Keeping your car
  If it’s a Cat N or Cat S, you can choose to keep the car. You’d be responsible for arranging repairs, selling it, or breaking it down for parts.

  Just keep in mind:

  • It will always carry a “Total Loss Marker” (e.g. Cat N or Cat S) that must be declared if you sell it,
  • You’ll likely need a new MOT to prove it’s roadworthy before reinsuring.
  • If you’re driving someone else’s car, the main insurer on that car needs to confirm it’s covered.
     
• Disposing of your car
  If it’s a Cat A or Cat B, you won’t be able to keep it. We’ll arrange for a salvage company to collect it and make sure it’s safely taken off the road.

  If you want to keep your private number plate, no problem — you just need to let the DVLA know. Here’s how.

  If you do choose to keep your car (Cat N or Cat S), we’ll deduct the salvage value. Your file handler will explain exactly what this means and how much it is, as it varies depending on the car.

How do we value your car?

If your car is written off, we’ll pay you its market value at the time of the accident. We use trusted industry guides which uses data from both retailers and trade to make sure the price is fair.

We look at:

• Auto Trader
• Glass’s Guide
• CAPs data

Sometimes, we may send an assessor to value the car in person or a digital assessment through photos.

What if my car is on finance?

If your car is on finance, we’ll pay the outstanding balance up to the market value of your car. Your file handler will guide you through this.

If the finance is more than your car is worth, you may have a shortfall. If you’ve got GAP Insurance, contact your GAP provider — this covers the difference between what you paid for your car originally and its current market value.

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• Insurance Group – Go for cars in Group 1–5 for cheaper premiums.
• Manual vs Automatic – Manual is more flexible for UK tests, but automatics are easier to learn on.
• Fuel Economy – Smaller petrol engines or hybrids are best.
• Used vs New – Many learners go for approved used cars to save money.

With the above in mind, here’s our list of popular cars that are perfect for learners in the UK.

Ford Fiesta

• Why it’s great: This has been the UK’s best-selling car for years — and for good reason. It’s super easy to drive, smooth clutch, precise steering, and has great visibility.
• Engine options: 1.0L EcoBoost is great for learners — good fuel economy without being too powerful.
• Insurance group: 2–8 depending on model.
• Extras: Some models come with rear parking sensors and Ford SYNC infotainment system.
• Common with instructors: Yes, many driving schools use them.

Perfect for: Learners who want to stick with the same car after passing.
Watch out for: Some EcoBoost models are pricier to maintain if buying used.

Vauxhall Corsa

• Why it’s great: Compact and nimble, ideal for tight UK roads. It’s a popular learner/instructor car too, with light steering and a comfortable driving position.
• Engine options: 1.2L petrol is ideal. Also comes in electric now (Corsa-e).
• Insurance group: 3–10 depending on model.
• Extras: Touchscreen infotainment, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in newer models.
• Instructor-friendly? Yes, many schools use Corsas too.

Perfect for: Learners wanting a cheap-to-run, practical car.
Watch out for: Base trims can be basic on older models.

Volkswagen Polo

• Why it’s great: Feels more premium inside, but still compact. Very stable and composed on the road — ideal for more nervous learners.
• Engine options: 1.0L petrol – ideal balance of efficiency and power.
• Insurance group: 1–11 depending on trim.
• Extras: High-quality interior, great safety kit like emergency braking.
• Instructor-friendly? Some do use Polos, especially for automatic learners.

Perfect for: Learners who want something small but with a classy feel.
Watch out for: Higher running costs and insurance on GTI or R-Line trims.

Hyundai i10

• Why it’s great: One of the best true city cars. Super compact, really light steering, and extremely easy to park. Despite its size, it feels stable.
• Engine options: 1.0L or 1.2L petrol — ideal for short trips and lessons.
• Insurance group: 1–5.
• Extras: Good tech for a small car (on newer models), reversing camera on some trims.
• Instructor-friendly? Less common, but brilliant for private learning.

Perfect for: First-time drivers needing a small, stress-free car.
Watch out for: Smaller boot and cabin space compared to a Fiesta.

Kia Picanto

• Why it’s great: Shares a lot with the i10 (they’re basically cousins). Very reliable, well-built, and comes with a 7-year warranty.
• Engine options: 1.0L petrol.
• Insurance group: 1–4.
• Extras: Available with touchscreen, reversing camera, cruise control.
• Instructor-friendly? Not as common, but a very smart personal learner choice.

Perfect for: City learners or those looking for something new with a long warranty.
Watch out for: Lower-powered models can feel sluggish on motorways.

Toyota Yaris (especially Hybrid)

• Why it’s great: One of the most reliable cars. The hybrid version is super smooth and easy for learning in automatic. It’s also cheap to run and eco-friendly.
• Engine options: 1.5L hybrid (self-charging), also available in 1.0 or 1.3L petrol.
• Insurance group: 2–10.
• Extras: Reversing camera, pre-collision system, adaptive cruise on some models.
• Instructor-friendly? Very common for automatic lessons.

Perfect for: Automatic learners who want a long-lasting, stress-free car.
Watch out for: Used hybrids can be a bit pricier upfront.

Peugeot 208

• Why it’s great: French flair with a stylish interior and a comfy ride. Compact but doesn’t feel cramped. Newer versions have a fancy digital cockpit.
• Engine options: 1.2L petrol is ideal; also comes in full electric (e-208).
• Insurance group: 5–10.
• Extras: Digital dash, reversing sensors, Apple CarPlay.
• Instructor-friendly? Less common than others but a solid option.

Perfect for: Learners wanting something modern and techy.
Watch out for: Older versions may not feel as refined.

Renault Clio

• Why it’s great: Comfortable and easy to drive with good safety features. Has a quiet cabin and good ride quality for a small car.
• Engine options: 1.0L or 1.2L petrol – ideal for learners.
• Insurance group: 2–11.
• Extras: Touchscreen, lane keeping assist, reversing camera on newer trims.
• Instructor-friendly? Used occasionally for lessons.

Perfect for: Learners looking for a comfy car with style.
Watch out for: Earlier models had reliability issues — newer ones much better.

So, whether you’ll be driving a used car or buying new, there’s something for everyone. Just make sure that you take the time to get to know your car, you’re safe on the roads and that you take plenty of time while learning. Don’t rush to be test ready – follow Ready to Pass? hints and tips. Get some extra practice with Veygo’s flexible pay-as-you-cover or monthly rolling subscription as your prepare to get your pink licence.

If you’re a learner driver, read more on our flexible cover options and get a quote at Veygo.com.

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Here are some key tips on how you can guide and support your child as they learn to drive:

Use Ready to Pass? resources for guidance and to track progress

• Guidance and advice: It’s difficult to know what you should be teaching your child and when. The UK Government’s Ready to Pass? website offers free and easy-to-follow guidance on the essential driving skills your learner needs to know.
• 27 driving skills: Ready to Pass? have broken down 27 key driving skills into five different levels, so it’s easy to keep track of a learner driver’s progress. You’ll know they’re ready to take their driving test when they’re consistently achieving level five on each of the 27 skills.

Be patient and understanding

• Stay calm: It’s normal for learner drivers to make mistakes. Remain calm and offer constructive feedback rather than expressing frustration.
• Create a positive learning environment: Encourage them with praise when they do well and provide constructive feedback when they make mistakes. Acknowledge improvements and praise their efforts, no matter how small.

Set a good example and review traffic rules

• Model safe driving habits: Show them the right way by demonstrating good driving behaviour, such as obeying speed limits, using turn signals, and staying focused on the road.
• Follow road safety rules: Don’t forget that your child will likely mimic your driving habits.
• Go over traffic laws: Ensure they understand all traffic signs, rules of the road, and road safety. This helps avoid confusion and promotes responsible driving.
• Discuss road safety: Have regular conversations about the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence, or distracted driving.

Practice regularly and create a structured practice plan

• Start with short, simple drives: Begin with calm areas like car parks or quiet streets before progressing to more challenging driving situations.
• Gradually introduce new challenges: Start in low-traffic areas and slowly move on to more complex situations like parallel parking or in heavy traffic. As their skills grow, introduce new conditions like night driving or driving in inclement weather.
• Encourage consistent practice: Regular driving practice helps them gain confidence and improve their skills.
• Have a structured learning schedule: Plan sessions around their learning needs and progress.

Provide emotional support

• Build their confidence: Acknowledge their progress, even if it’s small. Positive reinforcement boosts confidence. Celebrate successes when they handle something well.
• Address anxiety or fear: If your child is nervous about driving, be understanding and help them overcome their fears step by step.
• Be specific with feedback: Instead of general comments like “Drive better,” point out specific areas for improvement (e.g., “Try braking a little more gently”).

Help them stay focused

• Create a focused environment: Encourage them to focus only on the road. Avoid distracting activities like using the phone, playing loud music, or talking too much while they’re driving. Focus on the task at hand.
• No additional passengers: Avoid having other passengers in the car during practice to keep distractions to a minimum.

Learning to drive can be stressful but by being patient, offering regular practice, providing clear guidance, and reinforcing safe driving habits, you’ll help your learner develop the skills and confidence they need to become a safe, responsible driver.

If your learner needs occasional extra practice, get Veygo’s temporary car insurance, available by the hour, day or week or get a monthly rolling subscription for ongoing learner cover. Whatever you need, get a learner driver insurance quote today.

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