Legislation Update – February 2026

Consultations which opened in February 2026

HM Treasury  – Draft regulations: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

This technical consultation seeks comments on the draft secondary legislation for carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM).

Opened 10/02/2026, closes 24/03/2026.

DfT – Proposed changes to penalties for motoring offences

Seeking views on changes to current motoring offences and the potential introduction of other offences.

Opened 16/02/2026, closes 11/05/2026.

DfT – Electric vehicle signage market engagement

The consultation questions are about whether it would be useful to have more signage for EV charge points on motorways, local roads and the strategic road network. The consultation notes that most road users rely on electronic devices to locate EV charge points, however signage may still be needed if technology fails, and signs should be used to make sure that road users are safe and can safely access refuelling/recharging points.

Opened 23/02/2026, closes 11/03/2026.

Logistics UK responded to this consultation, highlighting the importance of clear EV signage on UK roads. Nationally consistent symbols and legends for EV charging on the strategic road network (SRN) is essential. Variable messaging signs would be helpful to indicate any malfunctioning infrastructure and to streamline use should the charging infrastructure be out of service. National infrastructure projects like eHGV charging infrastructure installation, and route network upgrades should have a requirement to review the need for lorry parking facilities, and to provide sufficient capacity, in line with industry need. Drivers must be reassured that they will be able to charge eHGVs and must also feel confident that there are the necessary facilities for them to take a break whilst their vehicle is charging. Where a dedicated eHGV charging symbol is shown, adequate driver facilities must coexist. 

DESNZ – Future of the UK downstream oil sector

DESNZ is seeking evidence to inform an upcoming strategy for the downstream oil sector that promotes economic growth, energy security and ensures that the sector can support the UK’s energy transition. This is an opportunity for industry operators, trade associations, trade unions, subject matter experts, academics and any other stakeholders with an interest in the future of the sector to provide evidence as to how this sector can grow and adapt to the changing energy landscape.

Opened 23/02/2026, closes 20/04/2026.

DfT – Mandating vehicle safety technologies in GB type approval

This consultation seeks views on DfT’s proposal to require manufacturers seeking Great Britain (GB) type approval for vehicles produced in unlimited numbers to be fitted with a series of safety technologies.

Opened 16/02/2026, closes 11/05/2026.

DfT – Introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers

Seeks views on the proposals to introduce mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers in Great Britain.

Opened 16/02/2026, closes 11/05/2026.

DfT – Introducing a minimum learning period for learner drivers

Seeks feedback on proposals to introduce mandatory requirements that learner drivers must meet before taking a practical driving test for a category B licence.

Opened 16/02/2026, closes 11/05/2026.

 

Consultations which closed in February 2026

DfE – National Professional Qualifications (NPQs): call for insights and evidence

DfE sought insights on the full suite of NPQs and research evidence which may inform updates to the evidence-base underpinning seven NPQ frameworks.

Opened 10/12/2025, closed 20/02/2026.

HMRC – Business Rates and Investment: Call for Evidence

This call for evidence sought input on the impacts of business rates on investment and options to address barriers.

Opened 26/11/2025, Closed 18/02/2026.

DfT – Vehicle type approval

A call for evidence was sought on the approval and marking of road vehicles placed on the market in Great Britain.

Opened 18/12/2025, closed 12/02/2026.

MAC – Temporary Shortage List review: Stage 2

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) invited government sector leads and organisations to provide evidence on workforce shortages and initiatives to maximise the domestic workforce.

Opened 21/10/2025, closed 02/02/2026.

Announcements, February 2026

27/02/2026 – DfT – Comparing fuel pumps to electric vehicle public chargers

An analysis that shows there are more electric vehicle (EV) public chargers than fuel pumps across the UK.

26/02/2026 – DfT – Commercial transport operator licensing common framework

Explains how the UK government and devolved governments propose to work together on commercial transport and operator licensing.

26/02/2026 – HMRC – Fuel duty rates for 2026 to 2027

This tax information and impact note is about the extension to the cut in fuel duty rates to the end of August 2026 and the new rates from September 2026.

25/02/2026 – DfT – Landmark deal paves way for return of regular cross-Channel rail freight

Regular rail freight traffic through the Channel Tunnel will help reduce pollution, potholes and congestion while providing new jobs across the UK.

19/02/2026 – DVSA – MOT inspection manual: public service vehicles (PSVs)

Added ‘Public service vehicle (PSV) inspection manual (from 1 April 2026)’.

19/02/2026 – DVSA – MOT inspection manual: HGVs

Added ‘Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) inspection manual (from 1 April 2026)’.

19/02/2026 – Brexit – Export horses and ponies: special rules

Current rules for exporting horses and other equines (including ponies and donkeys) from the UK.

12/02/2026 – Multi Department – Carry out international road haulage

Hungary has changed the rules for which roads HGVs are allowed to use.

06/02/2026 – DVSA – Apply to get a vehicle approved to transport dangerous goods (ADR)

Updated to include the latest versions of the ADR III and ADR IIIS forms.

03/02/2026 –  HMRC – HMRC email updates, videos and webinars about importing and exporting

The link to the recorded webinar for UK Freeports has been updated.

03/02/2026 – OTC – Vehicle operator licence application processing times

Updating with latest available data.

03/02/2026 – DfT – Carriage of dangerous goods annual report template

Word version of template added.

03/02/2026 – DVSA – Changes to driving test booking rules in 2026

From 31 March 2026, you will only be allowed to make two changes to your car driving test appointment after you’ve booked it.