Driving abroad offers you freedom and can be the best way to explore a country. Driving through winding country roads or across breathtaking mountain passes can offer you a sightseeing experience like no other.
But there's more to driving abroad than just getting a good deal on car hire or buying a ferry ticket. The local driving laws and rules of the road can differ from those in the UK. Before you get behind the wheel, it's important to do your homework.
What Do You Need to Drive Abroad? ¶
- Valid full UK driving licence
- DVLA “check code” (for car hire)
- Passport and proof of address
- V5C logbook (if taking your own car)
- International Driving Permit (for some countries)
- Vehicle insurance green card
- Travel insurance with medical cover
- Required safety equipment (varies by country)
If you’re driving in Europe, check your travel insurance cover options
Documents and Insurance ¶
H3: DVLA driving code:¶
If hiring abroad, you’ll need a DVLA check code so the rental company can view your driving record. Get yours at gov.uk/view-driving-licence - it’s valid for 21 days.
H3: International Driving Permit (IDP):¶
Some countries outside the EU require an IDP. You can apply at Post Office branches. Check the full list on gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit.
H3: Insurance & the Green Card:¶
If taking your own car, contact your insurer to confirm European cover and whether you need a green card. Also, ensure your travel insurance covers medical costs following an accident; not all car insurance policies will.
Tip: Even if your policy includes European driving, double-check any duration limits (often 30–90 days).
Understanding Local Driving Laws ¶
- Find out which side of the road you'll be driving on and ask yourself if you will be comfortable adapting to it.
- Be aware that the legal age limit for driving may be different in different countries.
- Familiarise yourself with local road signs and the highway code.
- Remember, in Europe and many other countries, speed limits are in kilometres per hour, not miles per hour.
- Don't drink and drive- the drink-drive limit varies in different countries and can be zero.
- Check for any other unusual laws, for instance, in France it is illegal to have sat nav devices that can detect speed cameras- even if they are turned off.
- Carry ID with you in the car, as the police might wish to inspect it if they stop you. Don't be alarmed by regular police stops that might occur in certain countries.
Equipment you must carry in your car ¶
- It is a legal requirement in some countries to carry safety equipment in your car, such as high-vis vests (enough for everyone in the car), a first aid kit and a warning triangle.
- Snow chains can also be a legal requirement at certain times of year- particularly important to remember if you are planning on driving to a ski resort.
If you are taking your own car, make sure you have a GB sticker and apply headlight converters if you are going to be driving on the right.
| Equipment | Required | Notes |
| Reflective jackets (one per passenger) | France, Spain, Italy | Keep in the passenger area |
| Warning triangle | Most EU countries | Two in Spain |
| Breathalyser | France (recommended) | Not enforced |
| Headlamp converters | All right-hand drive cars | Required |
| GB/UK sticker | Outside UK plates | Mandatory in non-UK countries |
| First aid kit | Germany, Austria, Croatia | Must be CE marked |
| Snow chains | Alps regions | Seasonal requirement |
More tips for driving abroad ¶
- Consider sharing the driving with your travelling companion so that you can take regular breaks.
- Take a camera in the event of an accident so that you can photograph the evidence.
- Be extra careful on the roads - drivers in another country might behave differently.
- Try to avoid long journeys, especially if you are suffering from jet lag. You don't want to tire yourself out before your holiday has even begun.
- Wear your seat belt even if it isn't a legal requirement - it could save your life.
- If you are hiring a car, choose a reputable company and check that your flight arrives when their offices are open to avoid waiting around.
- Take plenty of small change with you to pay for toll roads.
- Make sure you can fit your luggage in your car and allow room for souvenirs.
- Driving on holiday can save you money, but remember to budget for ferry crossings and motorway tolls. Where to find advice?
For more information about driving in specific countries, contact the AA or RAC: http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/overseas/countrybycountry.html
http://www.rac.co.uk/travel/driving-abroad/
Frequently Asked Questions ¶
Do I need to tell my insurance company if I’m driving abroad?¶
Yes, especially if you’re taking your own car. Some UK insurers limit cover to short European trips.
Do I need my V5 when driving abroad?¶
Yes. If you’re taking your own vehicle, carry the original V5C logbook or a VE103 certificate if it’s a hire or leased vehicle.
What countries does my car insurance cover?¶
Most UK policies include the EU and certain non-EU countries, but always confirm with your provider.
H3: What is the 4-hour driving rule?¶
This is a rest rule; experts recommend a 15-minute break every 2 hours and at least 45 minutes every 4 hours of driving.
H3: Is it worth having an EHIC/GHIC card?¶
Yes, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) offers limited emergency medical care across the EU, but it’s not a substitute for travel insurance.
Where to find advice? ¶
For more information about driving in specific countries, contact the AA or RAC:
http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/overseas/countrybycountry.html
http://www.rac.co.uk/travel/driving-abroad/