Driving in Europe and abroad - what you need to know

Planning on travelling to Europe from the UK? It's important to make sure you have the right insurance and other road essentials for your trip.

We'll list all the important documents and key pieces of kit you'll need before hitting the road while you're abroad.

Play Video: Driving to Europe - Documents, insurance & travel essentials

This video is also available as a text transcript.

What do I need to drive in Europe?

Driving abroad isn't quite like whizzing down to the shop in your motor—you will need a few documents at hand to ensure you're all set. You'll be required to have some of the following documents if you're inspected by the local authorities:

• Car insurance certificate – you might also be required to tell your insurer if you're driving abroad, even if you have temporary car insurance.
• Vehicle registration certificate (V5C)
• A full valid driving licence
• If necessary, a green card and international driving permit (IDP)
• Your passport - use our passport checker to make sure it's valid for your whole trip
• A visa, if required for your trip – use our visa checker to find out if you might need one
• A displayed UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle. You are exempt from doing so if your number plate already includes the UK identifier.
• GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card): It's not a legal requirement but is strongly recommended for all EU travel. You can apply for a GHIC for free via NHS – it has replaced the old EHIC (European Health Insurance Card).
• A VE103 document is your alternative to the V5C logbook when you're driving a hire or lease vehicle. It acts to prove you have the owner's permission to drive the vehicle while you're abroad.

It's also worth noting that you must be at least 18 to drive in most European countries. Always check the minimum age for your specific destination before you travel.

What else should you be aware of before setting off driving around Europe:

• EES (Entry/Exit System) was recently launched in April 2026, it's a new digital border system for Schengen area travel. If you're travelling from the UK and entering the Schengen area for the first time since the system was implemented, you'll need to register at the border. It's worth allowing for extra time at the border if you haven't recorded your biometrics before.
• ETIAS (The European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is another electronic travel permit system set to be introduced in late 2026. The visa waiver service can help visa-exempt UK travellers, for example, enter 30 European countries (similar to the US ESTA).

Preparing in advance can help you determine whether you need to renew or apply for any new or existing documents. Once you have everything ready, you can relax knowing you're all set to drive around on your travels!

What car insurance do I need to drive in Europe?

If you have a standard car insurance policy in the UK, you should have third-party cover at minimum to drive in countries around Europe, such as:

• The EU (member state countries)
• Andorra
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Norway
• Serbia
• Switzerland

However, like with most car insurance policies, the level of cover available to you while you're driving abroad will depend on your insurer and policy.

For example, if you have a fully comprehensive policy in the UK, it may only offer you third-party-only cover in Europe. Other policies may preserve your comprehensive cover further afield, even when you drive off the ferry into Calais!

You'll also need to be aware of how long you're permitted to drive in Europe; many policies limit you to 30 consecutive days. More generous policies can allow you to drive abroad for up to 90 days.

If you feel like the cover included in your policy doesn't offer you what you need, you'll generally have the option to upgrade it. Most insurers tend to offer you enhanced cover, but it'll likely come at an additional cost. If you're not sure what level of cover your policy included before you buy, you can always check when you compare quotes.

Do I need a green card to drive in Europe?

Some European countries require you to carry a green card to drive. It's widely recognised as an international certificate that proves you have the legal minimum car insurance cover for the country you're visiting. Luckily, some insurers may issue a Green Card automatically, but if not, you can request one after buying your policy. 

Since January 2025, digital Green Cards are accepted – you no longer need a printed copy.

You may need a card to drive in the following countries:

• Albania
• Azerbaijan
• Moldova
• Turkey
• Ukraine

If you're driving beyond Europe, you also might need a green card while driving in:

• Israel
• Morocco
• Tunisia

Green cards are free of charge but can only be issued by your existing insurer. It's always important to ensure you leave plenty of time to obtain a card before travelling to account for any delays in processing. 

What kit do I need in my car when driving in Europe?

In the UK, your only consideration before hitting the road might be what sandwich to take with you. However, when you're driving in Europe, you'll need to make sure you're equipped with essential kit.

Exactly what you're required to bring with you can vary depending on the country you're travelling in but can include:

Spain V16 beacons: Since January 2026, Spanish-registered vehicles are required to carry a V16 emergency beacon. UK-registered vehicles can currently still use a warning triangle, though Spanish authorities are encouraging wider adoption of V16 beacons – check the latest position before you travel. This mandate aims to improve road safety by warning other drivers of a breakdown or accident.

Headlamp deflectors: Cars manufactured for the UK are designed for driving on the left. A headlamp converter adjusts the angle of the headlight beam to avoid dazzling drivers on the other side of the road while improving your own visibility.

Breathalyser for France: It used to be a legal requirement to carry a breathalyser in your vehicle while driving in France. This law was changed in 2020, so while you're no longer legally required to store one, it's still recommended. 

High-visibility jackets: Those fluorescent yellow/green/orange jackets you tend to see on construction sites or in warehouses? Storing one of these jackets or vests in your car while driving is actually a legal requirement in many countries around Europe.

In addition, there are a number of other essential items you might need to bring with you depending on the countries you visit, such as:

• Spare bulbs for headlights and rear lamps
• A first aid kit
• Snow chains for tyres
• A fire extinguisher 

Road rules to know before you drive in Europe

'They have roads in Spain; it can't be that different driving there!"

Technically speaking, driving a car shouldn't change no matter where you are. However, the rules, signs and side of the road you drive on can completely change your driving experience. That's why it's crucial you prepare for driving in the specific country you're visiting. 

What our motor insurance expert says

"Overtaking while driving a right-hand-drive car on right-hand-side roads presents a greater risk for UK drivers. This is because a driver's sightlines for a right-hand-drive car are significantly different.

"UK drivers should treat any overtaking manoeuvre in Europe with extra caution, especially on single-carriageway roads."

 

Matt Crole Rees Motor General Manager & Motor Insurance Expert

Driving on the right

The vast majority of European countries drive on the right-hand side of the road. With this in mind, it's important to be aware that:

• Traffic at roundabouts drives anticlockwise
• When at a junction, remember to turn right to join a new road
• Align your car closer to a toll, especially if you have to lean across the car to pay!

Adjusting to driving on the opposite side of the road that you're typically used to isn't easy. So, it might be worth driving on quieter roads where possible at first to help with the transition. 

Speed limits

It might be obvious to some, but speed limit signs across Europe refer to your speed in kilometres per hour (kph) instead of miles per hour (mph). 

Many countries across Europe do follow similar speed limits depending on the type of road you're driving on, but it does vary. In Germany, for example, you might've heard of the 'autobahn'. It's a highway system comparable to motorways in the UK, but crucially, there are sections of the system where there are no speed limits.

In other countries, such as France, the speed limit on certain roads can change depending on weather conditions. This is why it's always a good idea to brush up your understanding of the roads in the country you plan on driving in!

It is possible, especially in newer cars with digital speedometers, to change from mph to kph – although the physical analogue speedometer will remain set to mph.

If you don't have the option to change your digital speedometer to kph, you could mount a GPS or phone to display your speed. It's important to note, however, that this measurement may not be completely accurate.

Local road rules to check before you go

While there are common driving rules adopted in the UK and Europe, the key details of these rules can vary.

The rules around seatbelts, for example, remain fairly consistent regardless of the country you're driving in. You must wear a seatbelt at all times whether you're the driver or a passenger. Rear-seat laws are strictly enforced in some countries.

The use of mobile phones is also widely prohibited, as it is in the UK. Hands-free systems are permitted, but the specifics may change depending on the country you're in. In countries such as France and Spain, wearing any headphones or earphones, even if used for hands-free calls, is illegal.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no explicit footwear rule in the UK that prevents you from driving barefoot, and the same applies in the EU. However, if inappropriate footwear prevents you from using the controls effectively, it can be illegal in many countries and will affect insurance claims.

The parking direction of your vehicle must align with the traffic flow – parking on the wrong side can result in a fine in many EU countries. You're actually allowed to park in either direction in the UK during the daytime, but you must park facing the direction of traffic at night.

Drink-driving limits change across the EU continent but are strictly enforced as they are in the UK. Police forces across the EU use blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels to measure intoxication.

There is a standard drink driving limit of 0.05% (50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood). This limit has been adopted by countries across Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Portugal.

In countries such as the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, there is a zero-tolerance rule towards drink driving. The UK and Ireland have slightly more lenient rules, with a limit of 0.08% (80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood).

Toll roads and road charges

Tolls are pretty uncommon in the UK; in fact, there are only 2 motorway tolls within the entire UK road network. The picture is slightly different across mainland Europe, where toll roads are dotted all around the continent.

Countries such as France, Italy, Portugal and Spain require payment at toll booths, with most accepting credit or debit cards. However, it's still worth bringing some cash with you on your travels as a backup option.

Toll charges are almost entirely based on the specific road you're travelling on, the distance you cover using this road and the type of vehicle you're driving.

So, what are your payment options?

The first option is paying a flat fee per use, so in essence you pay every time you encounter a toll. If you're only anticipating driving through a couple of tolls maximum, this might be the right option to take.

However, there is a more cost-effective option if you're planning a long European road trip. Several countries across Europe use what's known as toll vignettes. These are essentially prepaid road permits that allow you to drive on tolled motorways and major roads for a set timeframe. 

Toll vignettes are sometimes signified by physical stickers, but newer systems register your number plate instead. You can buy these permits online in advance or at border crossings and fuel stations.

Just like in the UK, there are low-emission zones located in various major cities around Europe. The rules and charges for these zones vary, so here's a brief breakdown for each country:

• In France, low emission zones are known as zones de protection de l'air (ZPAs). To drive in ZPAs, you can plan ahead by purchasing and displaying a Crit'Air sticker.
• Colour-coded stickers in major German cities signify a category of low-emission zone (known as 'Umweltzonen'). You need to buy a German emissions sticker (Plakette) to drive through these zones.
• Spanish low-emission zones are known as 'Zonas de Bajas Emisiones'. ZBEs are located in major cities, and foreign cars are required to register in advance before entering. To register, each city has their own application online.
• ZTL zones (Zone a Traffico Limitato) are restricted traffic areas in Italy and widespread across various municipalities. Non-residents may be prohibited from entering these zones during specific hours. There are also low-emission zones located in major Italian cities, so make sure you read up on restrictions before entering.

Many other European nations have their own low-emission and restricted zones. So it's important to plan ahead to avoid any potential fines while you're on your travels!

What to do if you have an accident abroad

Finding yourself involved in a road accident can be a distressing experience if it happens in the UK, yet alone while you're abroad.

So, if you ever find yourself in an accident in Europe, it's important to remember a few crucial points:

• Stay calm and attempt to move to safety while turning on your car's hazard lights if possible. Many countries require you to possess a warning triangle and a high-vis jacket – so it's important to use these features to indicate an accident to other drivers.
• Call local emergency services - Calling 112 can help you contact the police, ambulance service or fire brigade anywhere in Europe, including all 27 EU member states.
• Call your insurer - Your insurance documents should specify an emergency contact number or a number relating to accidents that occur while you're abroad. Most insurers set a specific timeframe to report an accident, so it's important you do this as soon as possible. 
• Exchange details - You should always look to obtain key details from other parties involved in an accident. This can include names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved.
• If there are witnesses of the accident, you should also attempt to request their contact details.
• Where possible, take photos of any damage to vehicles, the road positions of involved vehicles, road markings and signs. Taking as many pictures as possible can help process your claim quickly to give insurers the full picture (no pun intended) of the accident.
• Ask about a European Accident Statement (EAS) form. All parties completing this form provide a detailed statement of facts regarding the accident. It's widely used across and can be provided by your insurer or by authorities at the scene of the accident. It's important to review your account before signing the document.

One key tip: Do not admit fault for the accident at the scene to any other involved party or authorities - even as a courtesy. A car accident can shake you up and potentially cloud your judgement – even a casual apology can be perceived as fault, so try and avoid saying as much.

Before you go: pre-trip safety tips

Going the extra mile to cover all bases before heading off on a European road trip is worthwhile. It'll ensure you have a solution ready should anything happen and help you enjoy your trip!

So what should you consider?

Sharing your itinerary: Sending your itinerary with a close friend or family member at home can help others locate or offer support in an emergency.

Check the Foreign Office travel advice: The UK government offers travel advice for each country around the globe. Warnings are issued against travelling to certain countries, so it's important to check before you travel. Ignoring this advice can invalidate any car or travel insurance you have in place.

Know how to contact the UK embassy: Most European countries have a British embassy. Embassies and consulates can offer assistance to national citizens while they're abroad, such as losing or damaging your passport.

Carry your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC): This replaced the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in 2021 and gives you access to state healthcare in EU countries at the local rate. It's not the same as travel insurance, so don't consider it as a substitute! 

Another tip: Check whether tap water is safe to drink at your destination. This can depend on the country you're visiting!

Do I need an international driving permit?

If you’re driving outside of Europe, chances are you need an international driving permit (IDP). An IDP lets you drive in more than 140 countries.

So if you’ve ever fancied driving in Thailand or want to take a road-trip through the US, getting an IDP should be top of your list.

It’s a multi-language version of your driving licence, but make sure you bring your original UK driving licence with you, too.

There are different types of permits, depending on the country you’re driving in. You can typically buy an IDP at any PayPoint store. The cost of the application is £5.50, and you'll need to bring your full valid driving licence, your valid passport and a recent passport-style photo.

For more information on what countries need IDPs, read our guide to international driving permits.

Do I need European breakdown cover?

If you're worried about being stranded while driving in Europe, it's worth considering European breakdown cover.

If you have a breakdown cover policy in the UK, it's highly unlikely to extend the same cover to you in Europe. That's why it's important to check your policy first just in case! If you do need to upgrade your cover, it will usually come at an additional cost.