Driving in Europe 101: Motorists WILL need a Green Card when holidays resume

ARTICLE PUBLISHED JANUARY 2021 - PLEASE NOTE RULES ON GREEN CARDS HAVE NOW CHANGED AND THIS INFORMATION IS OUT OF DATE

• Drivers risk being denied entry at borders, fines or having their vehicle seized without Green Card
• GB stickers now needed for UK vehicles before driving abroad in most countries
• Admiral recommends allowing at least 7 days for Green Card applications
• 37% of motoring accidents overseas took place in France
• Insurer offers tips on what to do if you have a car accident abroad

As travel restrictions from the UK are eased, there’s likely to be a rise in the number of people who will choose to drive to Europe instead of flying this summer, says Admiral Car Insurance.

From 17 May, Brits will be able to go on foreign holidays to countries on the government’s green list and while the current list is restricted, more European countries are likely to be added as we move into summer. Admiral is reminding motorists they will now need a Green Card to drive their car in Europe, or risk not being able to go on holiday. Without a Green Card, drivers can be denied entry at the country borders, be fined for not having proper insurance in place or potentially have their vehicle seized.

Motorists with a UK driving licence will need to carry a Green Card as proof that they have the minimum level of cover for third party property damage and personal injury in countries that are part of the Green Card system. This includes the Republic of Ireland, all other EU countries and non-EU countries; Bosnia & Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Serbia or Andorra.

With new rules for travellers going overseas now in place due to covid-19, remembering to get a Green Card could be something holidaymakers forget. Admiral is advising anyone intending to take their own car to Europe to plan-ahead and allow themselves at least seven days to apply for their Green Card.

Although most Green Cards are free, some insurers may charge an administration fee to cover their internal costs. However, Admiral offers Green Cards free of charge to its customers.

UPDATED 01.07.21 - please read our 'EU to scrap Green Cards for UK drivers' article