Everything you need to know before getting behind the wheel this year
Last Updated: July 2025
If you’re planning to hire a van or car in 2025, there are a few important changes to UK driving laws that you need to know, especially if you’re a tradesperson, house mover, courier or weekend traveller hiring a vehicle.
At Hire2You, we don’t just hand you the keys, we make sure you’re informed, safe, and road-ready. Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant UK road law changes in 2025that could affect your hire experience.
1. Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) Now Mandatory in New Vehicles
From July 2024, all new vehicles sold in the UK are now required to include Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA)technology. That means if you’re hiring a newer car or van in 2025, there’s a good chance your vehicle will include this system, and you might notice it in action.
What is ISA and how does it work?
- ISA uses GPS data and traffic sign recognitionto detect speed limits.
- It warns drivers when they exceed the limit, often with visual and audio alerts.
- In some cases, it actively reduces engine power to prevent speeding.
- Depending on the model, drivers may be able to override ISA, but only temporarily.
Why does it matter when hiring?
Some drivers think something is wrong when their hire van won’t accelerate past a certain speed, but it’s just ISA doing its job.
2. Stricter Penalties for Speeding and Mobile Phone Use
In 2025, UK enforcement on speedingand mobile phone usewhile driving has tightened significantly.
What’s changed?
- Speeding in a 20mph zonecould now result in 3–6 pointsand a fine of up to £1,000.
- Using a mobile phone for anything, even scrolling music or unlocking the screen, is now completely bannedwhile driving unless it’s fully hands-free.
What does that mean for hire vehicle drivers?
- If you’re caught speeding or using your phone behind the wheel, you’ll receive points on your own licence, not ours.
- Offences such as SP30 (exceeding speed limit)and CU80 (using a mobile while driving)stay on your record for up to 4 years.
Stay safe, stay legal, and always use a legal hands-free setup when driving a hire vehicle.
3. More Crackdowns on Overloaded Vans
Tradesmen and house movers, take note: DVSAofficers have ramped up roadside weight checks for commercial vans in 2025.
Why is this important?
- Overloading a van beyond its legal limit can lead to:
- Fines up to £300
- 3 penalty points
- Vehicle seizure or prohibition
- It can also invalidate insurancein the event of an accident.
How to avoid it:
- Know your van’s payload capacity (we’ll tell you before you drive off).
- Don’t guess — always ask the Hire2You team if you’re unsure.
We’ll match you with the right van for the job, whether you’re hauling bricks or moving house.
4. ULEZ & Clean Air Zones: What Kent Drivers Need to Know
Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ)are still a hot topic in 2025 — and they’re not just a London problem anymore.
Where are the zones?
- London’s ULEZ covers all 32 boroughs and operates 24/7.
- Canterbury City Councilis exploring a Clean Air Zone (CAZ)similar to Bath and Birmingham.
- More 20mph low-emission areasare being trialled across Kent.
What does this mean for hire drivers?
- Daily ULEZ charge:£12.50 if your vehicle isn’t compliant.
- At Hire2You, we can confirm if the vehicle you’re hiring is ULEZ-compliant(most of our newer fleet is).
- Plan aheadif you’re driving into London or major cities — avoid surprise charges.
5. New Tyre and Vehicle Safety Regulations
2025 sees stricter enforcement around tyresand safety systemsin vans and cars.
Key points:
- All new tyres must meet eco-performance and wet grip safety ratings.
- Vehicles must be fitted with:
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Driving with unsafe or underinflated tyres is a fineable offence.
At Hire2You, all our vehicles are regularly maintained and safety-checked — but if you see a dashboard warning about tyre pressure or brakes, let us know immediately.
6. Real-Time Driving Licence Checks Now Standard
Thanks to advances in digital checks, more hire companies are now conducting real-time DVLA licence checks. We’re no different, but we make it simple.
What you need to hire a vehicle in 2025:
- Full UK driving licence (valid and with fewer than 6 points).
- DVLA check code(can be generated via gov.uk in 2 minutes).
- Two supporting documents:
- Passport and proof of address
- Or two separate address proofs (utility bill, bank statement etc.)
Tip:Bring your documents with you or upload them in advance to speed up your collection time.
7. Kent Road Changes: Local Drivers, Take Note
Several Kent road changesare underway or coming soon in 2025 that could impact your journey.
Key updates:
- M2/M20 Smart Motorway worksare causing delays, allow extra time.
- 20mph zonesnow cover parts of Maidstone, Rochester, and Canterbury.
- More ANPR camerasin Medway are targeting bus lane and red-route violations.
If you’re hiring a vehicle for business or moving, ask us for current route tips. We know Kent roads inside out — and we’ll help you plan around the worst of the traffic.
Final Thoughts: Stay Road-Legal, Stress-Free, and Ready to Drive
New laws don’t need to cause confusion ,especially when you hire from a trusted local company like Hire2You.
We’re here to:
- Make your experience smooth and straightforward
- Explain anything you’re unsure of
- Keep our fleet compliant and safe for every journey
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FAQs
Q: What is Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA)?
A: It’s a legal safety system that warns or prevents you from exceeding the speed limit using GPS and cameras.
Q: Can I get points on my licence in a hire car or van?
A: Yes. Any offences committed in a hire vehicle (speeding, phone use etc.) are applied to your own licence.
Q: Is my hire van ULEZ compliant?
A: All of our vans on fleet are ULEZ compliant