Plans for the UK to leave the EU on the 29th March could now be delayed and with final exit date still uncertain, many people will be left unsure about how changes in policies and laws might affect them.
Motorists may find it more difficult to drive in Europe after the decision is made. Drivers may also be required to purchase and or attain a number of permits or change their licence before being allowed to do so.
If you have plans on driving in the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) following Brexit.
Here are a number of tips you should follow to avoid running into a number of problems on the road with help from Swinton Insurance.
Driving in the EU post Brexit
Following Brexit, there may be a requirement for UK driving licence holders to carry an international driving permit (IDP) when driving abroad. Should there be a no EU Exit deal, UK drivers could also need extra documentation, in addition to the IDP, to drive in the EU and EEA.
You can read here to find out more about IDPs.
UK driving licences following Brexit
For people living in the EU or EEA who hold a UK driving licence, it’ll need to be exchanged for a local EU driving licence before Brexit – click here to do so.
It’s important to exchange your current licence as soon as you can, as once it nears the time for Britain to exit the EU, it’s likely you’ll experience longer processing times.
Driving in the UK, when visiting from the EU
If you are visiting the UK from the EU, you will be able to drive with your EU licence.
Moving back to the UK from the EU
It is possible to exchange your EU licence for a UK licence if you move back home, provided you passed your test in the UK or another qualifying country such as Iceland or Norway.
Changes to number plates
A ‘GB’ sign is currently used to identify cars registered in the UK when driving abroad.
If there is no EU Exit deal, drivers may be required to use a GB sticker on vehicles, even if a Euro-plate showing both the EU flag and a GB sign is present.
You won’t need a sticker if your plate only has the GB sign and not the EU flag.
Vehicle registration documents when in the EU
At the moment, if you’re driving in the EU or EEA on holiday or for a trip less than 12 months, you should always have your vehicle registration documents with you, including your log book or a VE103.
If there’s no deal, you should ensure you always carry these documents, whilst on the road.
Carrying a green card as proof of car insurance
Currently, drivers of cars registered in the UK are not required to carry a green card as proof of car insurance when driving in the EU and EEA.
If the UK exits the EU with no deal and the European Commission does not make a decision on showing proof of insurance for UK registered vehicles, British drivers will need to carry a green card while driving in the EU and EEA. A green card is obtainable through insurance providers.
Please note some of the requirements in this article may be subject to change and will be dependent on what terms are agreed when the UK leaves the EU. You can click here for official Brexit updates from GOV.UK.
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