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Do I need a green card to drive in Europe?
As long as you have UK car insurance in place, you’ll usually be covered for travel throughout most of Europe without a green card.
This is because it is a legal requirement for UK motor insurance companies to offer third party cover in EU countries.
Many policies will also allow you to drive in several non-EU European countries without a green card. These typically include:
- Andorra
- Bosnia Herzegovina
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
- Serbia
- Switzerland
However, the further afield you go, the more likely you are to need a green card.
If you’re unsure whether you’ll need a green card to drive to, or in, your destination, it’s always worth checking with your insurer before setting off.
The European countries you typically need an insurance green card to drive in include:
- Albania
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Moldova
- Russia
- Turkey
- Ukraine
Need more help?
Do I need breakdown cover to drive in Europe?
European breakdown cover isn't a legal requirement, but it could help you if you run into problems with your car when driving abroad.
Without cover in place, you could end up with a costly bill for recovery.
European breakdown cover is available as an add-on to your car insurance when you get your quote.
Or you can get a standalone policy by comparing European breakdown cover quotes.
What do I need to know about driving in Europe?
Apart from remembering to drive on the opposite side of the road, it's worth reading up on the road rules including speed limits and drink drive limits for your destination.
Many countries require you to carry certain things in your car or modify it for driving abroad. While driving in France for example, it's compulsory to carry a warning triangle, reflective jacket and alter headlamps so they don't dazzle oncoming drivers.
You're also required to attach a GB sticker to your car when driving in the EU.
Am I covered to drive between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland?
There normally shouldn’t be an issue in crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland if you are visiting ROI with your car, as long as you have an up to date car insurance certificate. Your standard car insurance policy from the UK will cover you on NI roads.
You won’t need a green card in the Republic of Ireland as it’s part of the EU.
Which European countries drive on the left?
Only 4 countries in Europe drive on the left; The United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Malta, and Cyprus. You can find out more in our guide about this and other countries worldwide if you are planning on driving further afield.
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Types of car insurance
Black box car insurance
lets you prove you’re a safe driver, and save money on your policy, even if you’re inexperienced or seen as high risk.
Classic car insurance
offers cover for owners of classic cars. For insurance purposes, a classic car can be any car that’s older than 15 years.
Business car insurance
covers you if you use your car for work, including travelling between offices or across the country.
What our European car insurance expert says
Even if you've got comprehensive insurance in the UK, don't assume you'll have the same level of cover when driving in Europe. Most insurers will only give you third-party cover which won't cover your own car against damage. If you'd like a higher level of cover, speak to the insurer and see if you can increase it.
European car insurance expert
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