9 of the Queen's unexpected powers and privileges
In addition to living in the lap of Royal luxury, there are some other truly unique perks to being the monarch.
Here are nine unexpected powers that the Queen has:
1. She can drive without a licence
She is the only person in the UK who doesn't legally need a licence number or a number plate. The Queen first learned how to drive during World War II, when she operated a first-aid truck for the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service.
2. She doesn't need a passport to travel
All UK passports are issued in the Queen's name, which means that while all other members of the Royal family still have to carry one, the Queen doesn't need a passport herself.
3. She gets to celebrate two birthdays
She has two days of the year to celebrate her birthday: her actual birth date on 21 April, and then another 'official birthday' in June.
4. She has her own private cash machine
The Queen has her own cash machine installed in the basement of Buckingham Palace, courtesy of Coutts.
5. She owns a lot of animals
In addition to her gang of corgis, the Queen also owns all the swans in the River Thames, all the dolphins in British waters, and sturgeons and whales, too.
6. She doesn't have to pay tax
Though she doesn't have to, the Queen voluntarily began paying her fair share in 1992.
7. She can never be arrested
After all, she's completely immune from prosecution. She and her family are also spared from all Freedom of Information requests, meaning they don't have to give anyone access to their personal details.
8. She has her own poet
The current Poet Laureate is Carol Ann Duffy. The honorary position is given to a poet whose work is of national significance.
9. She is head of a religion
Along with her royal title, the Queen is also the Head of the Church of England. This means she's not allowed to convert to any other religion or church. If she does, her title can be removed and another head be appointed.
From Good Housekeeping UK
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