Foreign licences
If you hold a valid Community licence and you are visiting Great Britain, you can drive any vehicle for as long as your licence remains valid. The appropriate full entitlement for the vehicle you wish to drive must be shown on your licence.
The EEA countries are as follows:
If you wish to become a UK resident then you will have to apply for a British Licence. More information is available on the DVLA website.
Outside Europe
If you hold a full driving licence issued outside the EEA it may be possible to exchange it for an equivalent British licence. You should contact the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to find out if you can exchange your foreign licence.
If you cannot exchange your foreign licence you will have to apply for a British provisional licence and take a theory and practical test.
For further information about licences within the European Community visit the Europa Transport website.
*Source: DSA Webpage June 2005