Driving in the EU after Brexit

What are the rules for driving in the EU after Brexit?

Remember Brexit? That thing that happened back in 2021 when we were all stuck at home watching Tiger King and baking banana bread?

Well, it might seem like ancient history now, but if you're planning to hit the continental roads anytime soon, Brexit's effects are still very much in the driving seat.

Whether you're dreaming of cruising down the Amalfi Coast, navigating the winding roads of the Alps, or simply popping over to France for a quick wine run, you'll need to pack a few extra bits of paperwork along with your sunglasses and road trip playlist.

Let's shift gear and get into exactly what you'll need to keep your European adventures on the right track.

Driving license laws after Brexit

Good news. Your UK photocard driving licence is still valid for driving in EU countries. No need to slam on the brakes there.

But – and there's always a but – you might need to pair it with an International Driving Permit (IDP) in certain scenarios:

• If you're still rocking the retro paper driving licence instead of the photocard version
• If your driving licence was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

Living in the EU with a UK licence? You might need to swap it for a local one, which unfortunately could mean retaking your test. 

UK passports and EU travel after Brexit

Good news – your UK passport is still valid for EU travel. Just make sure it's less than 10 years old and has at least 6 months left before it expires.

International driving permits (IDP) after Brexit

Think of an IDP as the translator that helps foreign authorities understand your UK licence. There are two types – one governed by the 1949 Geneva Convention and the other by the 1968 Vienna Convention.

Which one you need depends on where you're heading.

But getting your hands on one is as easy as popping to the Post Office with:

• £5.50
• Your full valid UK driving licence
• A passport-sized photo
• A valid passport as ID

The 1949 IDP lasts for 12 months, while the 1968 version is valid for three years. Not sure which one you need? The Post Office has a handy tool to help you find out.

Car insurance after Brexit

Before Brexit, your UK insurance would typically cover you for up to 90 days of European driving adventures. Now, you'll need a motor insurance green card to prove you're properly covered while abroad.

And yes, it really does need to be printed on green paper to be valid – the environment might not thank us, but those are the rules!

You'll need to:

• Request a green card from your insurer at least six weeks before travel
• Ensure you have at least 15 days' cover when entering an EU country
• Get separate green cards for any trailers or caravans you're towing

Remember that a green card only proves you have the minimum legally required insurance. It's worth checking with your insurer if you need extra coverage for full peace of mind when driving abroad.

GB sticker requirements after Brexit

Before Brexit, you only needed a GB sticker if your number plate didn't already feature the GB logo on a blue background.

Now, you'll need to display a UK sticker (they've replaced the GB ones) if your number plate has:

• A Euro symbol
• A national flag of England, Scotland or Wales
• No identifying flags or symbols

The only exception? If your number plate has the UK identifier alongside the Union Jack, you're good to go.

You can pick up reusable magnetic stickers online – much better for the environment and your wallet than disposable ones.

V5 and VE103 laws after Brexit

Your V5 document proves the car is legally yours to drive, so you'll still need to bring it when driving abroad.

Leasing a car? Since you don't own it, you'll need a VE103 (or Vehicle on Hire form) instead. This confirms you have permission to take the vehicle abroad.

Make sure to contact your leasing company at least 14 days before travelling to request this.

Taking your pets abroad

Want to bring your four-legged bestie with you?

Pet passports issued in Great Britain are no longer valid for EU travel.

Instead, you'll need:

1. To get your pet microchipped
2. A rabies vaccination (your pet needs to be at least 12 weeks old for this)
3. To wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
4. An animal health certificate (AHC) from your vet – get this around a month before travel, but no less than 10 days before crossing the border

The essential paperwork checklist

Before you accelerate into your European adventure, make sure you've ticked off these Brexit-related road trip essentials:

• Your valid UK photocard driving licence
• Potentially an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Motor insurance green card
• GB/UK vehicle sticker (depending on your number plates)
• Your V5 document (or VE103 for lease cars)
• Valid passport with at least 6 months left
• Animal health certificate if you're bringing pets

Miss any of these, and you might find yourself hitting the brakes on your holiday plans faster than you can say "parlez-vous Anglais?"

Rev up your European adventure

While Brexit has added a few extra steps to driving in Europe, don't let that stall your travel plans. With a bit of preparation, you'll be cruising down those beautiful European roads in no time.

Remember to check the specific requirements for the countries you're visiting on their corresponding website, as rules can vary. And if in doubt, it's always worth contacting the relevant embassy for the most up-to-date information.

We wish you safe travels, happy driving – and don't forget to drive on the right side of the road.

FAQs on driving in the EU after Brexit

Can I still drive in Europe after Brexit?

Yes, you can still drive in Europe after Brexit. You'll need your UK driving licence and possibly an International Driving Permit depending on which countries you're visiting and whether you have a paper license.

Do I need anything extra to drive in Europe?

Yes, you'll now need additional documents including a motor insurance green card, a UK sticker (unless your number plate has the UK identifier with Union Jack), and your V5 or VE103 document.

Does UK car insurance cover you to drive in Europe?

Basic UK car insurance will typically provide the minimum third-party cover required by law in EU countries, but you'll need a motor insurance green card as proof.

What documents do I need to drive through Europe?

You'll need your UK driving licence, potentially an International Driving Permit, motor insurance green card, V5 document (or VE103 for lease cars), UK sticker (if required), and a valid passport.

Do I need a UK car sticker to drive in France?

Yes, unless your number plate includes the UK identifier alongside the Union Jack. If your plate has a Euro symbol, a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales, or no flag/identifier, you'll need to display a UK sticker.