Driving in Europe (including Ireland)
With recent changes to travel regulations, many people may be wondering how these updates affect the rules for driving in Europe with a UK driving licence.
Key points
- UK driving licences are valid in most EU countries; IDP may be needed for paper licences.
- Green Card is not required for driving in most EU countries.
- UK sticker is needed if your number plate doesn’t show “UK”.
- Third-party insurance is standard abroad; upgrade for comprehensive cover.
Which European countries allow UK drivers?
Most drivers in the UK won’t need anything other than a standard UK photo driving licence to drive elsewhere in the EU.
You may need an International Driving Premit (IDP) Footnote [1] to drive in some EU countries and Norway if you have either:
- A paper driving license
- Your license was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
Does my UK car insurance cover me in Ireland?
If you're a resident of Northern Ireland, your existing policy will be extended to provide you full cover in Republic of Ireland as standard. If you're not a resident of Northern Ireland, while driving in Republic of Ireland, your UK policy will only provide third party cover.
What documentation will I need to drive in the EU?
Thinking about what papers you might need to pack isn’t what most of us have in mind when we’re planning our holidays, however, it may be the crucial factor distinguishing between a smooth or disorganised arrival at your destination. If you’re the designated driver for your trip, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared with these documents.
- Your full, valid UK photo licence (check that it hasn’t expired!)
- Your national insurance number
- Your passport
- If you’re using your own car – proof of ownership (V5C certificate)
- Your current certificate of insurance
- If you’re hiring a car – details of the rental
Have laws changed since Brexit regarding driving in the EU?
A few things have changed since Brexit, but you’ll be glad to know that there’s nothing too complex.
Will I need a green insurance card?
You do not need to carry a green card when you drive in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, Norway, Serbia, and Switzerland. You still need valid vehicle insurance. Footnote [1]
You may need to carry a green card to drive in other countries, including, Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Turkey and Ukraine.
Check what insurance you need before you drive in any other countries.
What number plate stickers will I need?
As of September 2021, you must display the UK identifier when driving a UK-registered vehicle abroad.
If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a UK sticker. If you’re driving in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker regardless of what is on your car number plate.
What happens if I'm involved in an accident in the EU?
Before you leave for your trip, we suggest looking into your policy and finding out what you’re covered for when driving in the EU.
The first thing you’ll need to do if you’re involved in an accident while in the EU is to call the police on 112 and get the details of anyone involved in the accident. You’ll want to ask for a copy of the accident report, and it’s recommended that you take photographs of the scene too. You should also contact your insurance provider.
Can I increase my cover to drive in the EU if I'm worried about accidents?
Most insurance providers will only provide third party liability insurance, so if you’re worried this isn’t enough – you can speak to your insurer about changing your current policy to include comprehensive cover abroad, noting that this will incur an additional cost.
More information on Aviva’s motor insurance policies, including car insurance, can be found on our motor insurance homepage.
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