Driving abroad - what you need to know

We explain what documents you need and customs to be aware of when you drive in Europe and worldwide following the UK’s exit from the European Union (EU).

What you need to take when driving abroad

There’s more to driving abroad than sticking to the other side of the road. Depending on where you're going you could be obliged to travel with all manner of driving kit.

Can I drive abroad?

First of all, make sure you have the right to drive in your country of choice, check on Gov.uk where you can use your licence abroad.

Driving in Europe and the EU after Brexit

To drive in the EU after the Brexit transition period ended on January 1st, 2021, you need a Green Card with you.

These are free from your insurer (and can even be printed at home) but are needed as proof you are covered, so make sure you have enough time to get one.

The EU has said it is planning to withdraw this requirement, but the change won't take effect until mid-July at the earliest. Until then people planning to drive abroad will still need one in place.

You may also need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in some European countries.

You do not need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if you have a card driving licence issued in the UK

You might need an IDP to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have either:

International driving 

You’ll need an International Driving Permit to drive in countries outside of the EU.

If you already have an IDP, make sure it is still valid.

Where can I get an International Driving Permit and how much does it cost?

You can get an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Post Office, the AA or the RAC, at a cost of £5.50.

Driving abroad and local driving customs

Each country has its own regulations that will be second nature to native motorists but might catch British holidaymakers out when driving abroad. 

For example:

Other customs that might result in a fine or worse include:

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has a tool that can help with explaining driving laws and recommendations for driving in individual countries.

If you're driving your own car abroad, you need to carry your driving licence, vehicle registration document and motor insurance policy.

Police in most European countries are able to give on-the-spot fines or confiscate your car if you infringe their driving laws and fail to pay up, so it pays to be aware of local laws.

What car insurance do I need to drive abroad?

If you're looking for car insurance, bear in mind your UK policy may protect you when driving abroad in the EU, the EEC and Switzerland, but this may only be third-party only cover.

Some UK insurance policies allow you to drive abroad, but check with your provider to find out exactly what they will cover outside the UK.

Comprehensive cover versus third party cover when driving abroad

Sometimes, insurers will cover theft but not damages, so this means your car will not be covered for damages, or any expenses for personal injuries sustained.

Many insurers will extend comprehensive cover to Europe but for limited periods. 

You need to check with your insurer or specify that you want European cover when searching for quotes.

If you want more comprehensive European car insurance with extras such as breakdown cover, speak to your provider about an upgrade. 

Car insurance before you travel:

Know what you are covered for whether you have third-party only (TPO), third-party damage, fire and theft (TPFT) or comprehensive cover 

Third-party only insurance will not cover damage to your own car or your medical expenses

Third-party damage, fire and theft insurance also covers you for arson and if things are stolen from your car

Check how many days you are insured for.

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Your checklist for driving abroad

The RAC also recommends the following equipment when driving abroad. 

See a range of car insurance quotes in just a few minutes when you compare with Uswitch

Breakdown cover for driving abroad

This is useful and can also include accommodation costs and or a courtesy car if your car needs to spend several days in a garage being repaired.

Do I need a green card to drive abroad?

Some countries insist foreign drivers carry a ‘green card’ – a form of ID you can get free from your insurer. 

Countries where you are required to have a Green Card, include: Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, Israel, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Russia, Tunisia, Turkey, and Ukraine. 

Hiring a car abroad

Hiring a car is another great way to explore a new country. But it’s not as easy as walking into a car hire company and being handed the keys — you need to do some preparation first. 

Driving abroad if you have endorsements

The paper driving licence counterpart was abolished on 8 June 2015, since then this information has been stored electronically by the DVLA. 

Some hire companies may accept print-outs of this information. 

How to save on car insurance when driving abroad

Being a named driver

If you're borrowing a car for a trip abroad or you want to share the driving on a trip with friends or family, you can ask the car's owner to add you as a named driver on their insurance policy.

This may not be the best or cheapest option if you only plan to drive their car on a one-off basis.

‘Driving other cars’ cover

You may already be insured to drive their car if you have ‘driving other cars’ cover on your own vehicle.

Check the restrictions — as this type of cover is usually only third party and may exclude driving outside of the UK.

Temporary car insurance 

If you are only planning on borrowing a car you can also compare quotes for short-term or temporary car insurance.

Temporary car insurance is often the best option when sharing or borrowing a car to drive abroad. 

Child safety and alcohol limits

Different countries have their own rules on how to ensure children travel safely — so before you leave check what individual country requirements are.

Alcohol rules tend to be stricter for driving abroad than they are here. The UK limit for drivers is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood (50mg in Scotland), while it’s often 50mg per 100ml or lower in the EU.

Remember to make sure you have the appropriate car seat if you have passengers who are young children. Other ways to find cheaper car insurance

Join a club

If you own a vintage car or distinctive model joining an owners’ club could save your up to 15% on specialist car insurance.

Consider multi-car insurance

If your family own several cars it may be better to insure them via a multi-car insurance policy.

Multi-car insurance might also be suitable:

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