Driving in Europe (including Ireland)

A few things have changed since Brexit, but you’ll be happy to know that nothing is too complicated.

Do I need a green insurance card?

A green card, also called an international car insurance card, is a document that provides proof of your car insurance when you drive abroad. It is issued by your insurance company and confirms that you have the minimum level of insurance required by the countries you are visiting.

All car insurers must now offer basic third-party cover for British drivers driving elsewhere in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland. The green card is therefore no longer necessary in those countries. It is advisable to check with your insurer before you head out to find out what cover they offer, as this may differ from the cover you have if you drive at home.

If you need a green card, contact your insurer who can help you.

Which license plate stickers do I need?

Before September 2021, cars registered in the UK were required to have a GB identification number when driving elsewhere in the EU. ‘UK’ has now replaced ‘GB’, so any car without the UK marking on the number plate will need a new sticker. If you drive in Spain, Cyprus or Malta you will need a UK sticker, regardless of what is on your license plate. If you drive in Ireland you don’t need a British sticker or license plate, but you do need your British photo license.