In the second full month of Andy Burnham’s tenure as Prime Minister, a series of important changes to driving rules and regulations are set to come into effect across the UK this September. These updates will notably impact company car drivers, motorists using the Silvertown Tunnel, and recipients of the Motability Scheme in Scotland.
One of the most visible changes will be the introduction of the new “76” vehicle registration plates. Following the appearance of the “26” plates in March, all vehicles registered between 1 September 2026 and the end of February 2027 will carry the “76” number plate, continuing the UK’s twice-yearly registration update cycle.
From 1 September, Scotland will implement changes to the Motability Scheme leases for customers receiving allowances from Social Security Scotland. These alterations are in response to tax adjustments announced in the UK Government’s 2025 Autumn Budget and have already been applied to the rest of the UK since 1 July 2026. The Motability Scheme in Scotland operates under the Accessible Vehicles and Equipment Scheme (AVES), and after concluding discussions with the Scottish Government, the changes will now take effect from 1 September 2026 for Scottish customers.
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Company car drivers should also note the revised advisory fuel rates set by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), effective from 1 September. These rates provide guidance for how businesses reimburse employees for fuel used during business travel and how employees repay fuel costs for private journeys. By adhering to these rates, businesses can avoid complex tax liabilities, as HMRC confirms no taxable profit or Class 1A National Insurance contributions arise when the correct rates are used.
Additionally, motorists using the Silvertown Tunnel – which connects Silvertown and the Greenwich Peninsula beneath the Thames – will experience an increase in daily toll charges starting 21 September 2026. Off-peak charges for cars and small vans will increase from £1.50 to £1.55, while peak and online charges will rise from £4 to £4.20.
These changes reflect evolving government policies and ongoing adjustments to transport infrastructure and support schemes, all of which drivers and beneficiaries should be aware of as they come into force this autumn.