Driving in Europe (including Ireland)

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 

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?

A green card, also known as an international motor insurance card, is a document that provides proof of your vehicle insurance when you drive abroad. Issued by your insurance provider, it confirms that you have the minimum level of insurance required by the countries you're visiting.^{Footnote [1]}

All car insurers should now offer basic third-party cover for UK drivers driving elsewhere in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland. So, there’s no need for the green card anymore in those countries. It is advisable to check with your insurer regarding the level of cover they offer before you hit the road, as it may differ from the coverage you have when driving at home.

If you require a green card, contact your insurer who will be able to provide assistance.

What number plate stickers will I need?

Before September 2021, it was required that cars registered in the UK would need a GB identifier when driving elsewhere in EU. ‘UK’ has now replaced ‘GB’, so any car without the UK marker already on its number plate will need a new sticker. If you’re driving in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you will need a UK sticker regardless of what’s on your number plate. You won’t need a UK sticker or number plate if you’re driving in Ireland, but you will need your UK photo licence.

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.

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.

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 the minimum insurance requirements.

For more information on Aviva’s motor insurance policies that can help you plan for your EU trip, including car insurance, temporary car insurance, and even motorhome and campervan insurance, you can take a look at our motor insurance homepage.

Learn more about what Aviva car insurance covers. Exclusions apply.