TL;DR
UK drivers in the EU need a UK sticker on the car, valid insurance and a V5C log book. Green Cards are no longer required for most EU countries. Headlight beam deflectors and a high-visibility vest remain practical requirements.
UK drivers in the EU after Brexit need a UK sticker on the car, valid insurance and a V5C log book. Green Cards, which previously evidenced cover when driving abroad, are no longer required for most EU countries. Headlight beam deflectors and a high-visibility vest remain practical requirements in many EU states.
The UK sticker requirement
Vehicles registered in the UK must display a UK sticker or have the UK identifier as part of the registration plate when driving abroad. The old GB sticker is no longer recognised.
Number plates with the UK identifier next to the Union Jack symbol do not need a separate sticker. Standard England, Scotland and Wales plates do need a sticker.
Insurance and the Green Card
EU member states no longer require UK drivers to carry a Green Card from their insurer. The motor insurance directive arrangements mean UK insurance automatically provides at least third-party cover across the EU.
Drivers should still inform their insurer of the trip and confirm whether the policy covers comprehensive driving in the EU. Some insurers reduce cover to third-party only outside the UK unless specifically extended.
Documents to carry
Driving licence, V5C log book, insurance certificate and passport are the core documents. Some EU countries require an International Driving Permit for UK driving licence holders, particularly for older paper licences.
International Driving Permits are issued by the Post Office for £5.50 each. The IDP 1968 covers most EU countries, while IDP 1949 and IDP 1926 cover specific other destinations.
Equipment requirements by country
Headlight beam deflectors are required in most EU countries because UK headlights are set for left-hand driving. Stick-on deflectors cost £5 to £15 in motoring shops and online.
France, Spain and Italy require a high-visibility jacket carried in the vehicle. France additionally requires breathalysers and a warning triangle. Each country's rules are published by the AA, RAC and gov.uk's foreign travel advice pages.
Pet travel and ferries
Pets travelling with their owners need an Animal Health Certificate, which costs around £180 from a vet and replaces the pre-Brexit EU pet passport. Microchipping and rabies vaccination are required.
Ferry crossings and Eurotunnel bookings are made directly with the operator. Most operators accept UK driving licences as ID alongside the passport.
Key facts
- UK sticker required on cars without UK identifier plates.
- Green Cards no longer required for EU.
- IDPs from Post Office cost £5.50 each.
- Headlight beam deflectors required in most EU countries.
- Animal Health Certificate for pets costs around £180.
FAQ
Do I still need a Green Card to drive in the EU?
No, EU member states no longer require a Green Card from UK insurers. UK insurance automatically provides at least third-party cover. Inform your insurer of the trip and confirm whether comprehensive cover applies.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
For most EU countries, no. Some destinations require IDPs for older paper UK licences. The Post Office issues IDPs for £5.50 each. The AA and RAC publish lists by destination.
What about the UK sticker?
Required on cars without the UK identifier next to the Union Jack on the number plate. The old GB sticker is no longer recognised. Stick-on UK stickers are available from motoring retailers.
What equipment do I need to carry?
Headlight beam deflectors in most EU countries. France, Spain and Italy require a high-visibility jacket. France additionally requires breathalysers and a warning triangle. Check each destination's rules.
