Driving in Europe after Brexit – is my UK licence still valid?
MILLIONS of Brits drive across Europe for our holidays every year.
But with a Brexit deal apparently hours away, there's still uncertainty about whether how that will work from January.
Will UK driving licences be valid in Europe after Brexit?
The UK will leave the Europe Union at 11pm on January 31, but will enter a transition period where current rules will still apply until December 2020.
UK licences will still be valid for drivers visiting EEA countries during this time period.
But once this transition ends, drivers may need to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) when travelling in an EU country in addition to their UK driving licence.
An IDP can be bought at post offices for £5.50.
There are three types of IDP, and the type you may need depends on the country you will be driving in and how long you're staying:
- 1926 IDP - isn't required in any EU state, but you may need to carry one if you plan on driving to Liechtenstein
- 1949 IDP - valid for 12 months, this is required in the likes of Malta, Spain or Cyprus
- 1968 IDP - valid for three years or until your driving licence expires for all other EU states
Even if your UK photocard driving licence has an EU flag on it, it will still be valid in the UK until the expiry date printed on it.
What is an International Driving Permit?
An IDP is temporary proof of driving ability while abroad, which is recommended for about 140 countries worldwide.
It is important to note that an International Driving Permit isn't the same as an International Driving Licence (IDL) - which isn't a legally recognised document.
You must be over 18 and hold a valid driving licence to apply for an IDP.
All types of IDPs are available over the counter at Post Office branches for just £5.50.
However if you're travelling in multiple countries where different versions are required, you will need to buy both the 1949 and 1968 IDPs.
You must apply for your IDP within three months of travelling abroad.
latest motors news
Will I need a Green Card to drive in the EU after Brexit?
Green Cards are an international certificate of insurance issued by your provider in the UK, which guarantees that you have the necessary third-party cover needed to travel in certain countries.
The Association of British Insurers recommends that people travelling in the EU should bring the certificate as means of proving their insurance.
If you're planning on travelling across Europe, it's best to get in touch with your insurer as soon as possible as checks can take up to a month.
Drivers caught without the card could be hit with a hefty fine and criminal prosecution, and even have their vehicle seized by local police.