Because the UK is no longer a part of the European Union, you will need a Green Card to drive in Europe. According to the UK Government, people traveling to the UK may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
For instance, if you drive a van for work in Europe, you need a CPC card. CPC stands for Certificate of Professional Competence. Besides, you may also need a valid passport and health certificates to drive a car in the EU.
Most people living in the UK who have the UK driving licenses are swapping them for EU- based licenses. Bear in mind that you can't renew the driving license in the UK. In today's article, we will talk about the EU Green Card and give you essential information. Read on!
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card is globally-recognized travel documents. It is a kind of car insurance policy for European citizens and foreigners. When you have a Green card, you will easily drive in the EU and make a claim. Most insurance companies in the UK offer free Green Cards to drivers. However, it is crucial to apply for the Green Card on time and receive it before traveling to the EU.
Do UK Drivers Need a Green Card?
If you want to drive in any EU country, make sure your insurance policy covers you. Ask your insurance company about the information on driving in the EU. That way, you will know if your existing insurance policy covers you outside the UK.
Contact your insurance company to know if it can upgrade your policy and provide coverage outside the UK. The purpose is to ensure a higher protection level, especially in the EU with strict driving rules and insurance laws. Bear in mind that if you want to upgrade your policy, the insurance company will charge you extra.
For instance, if you are traveling to the EU, you will need to add European cover as an extra option in your policy. Research shows that insurers typically cover their customers for up to one month. Check your insurance policy thoroughly, and once you approve it, you can ask the insurance company for a Green Card.
You will also need a GB Sticker, letting the authorities know that you have a UK-registered vehicle. You must attach the sticker to your number plate. You can't travel or drive in the EU if you don't have a GB sticker, leading to hefty fines and even imprisonment.
Final Words
The UK left the EU in 2020. The country enters a transition period after leaving the EU. The transition period has ended in January 2021. It means all UK drivers will need a Green Card if they intend to drive UK-registered cars in the EU.
Remember, the Green Card is not insurance coverage itself but a document recognized in all EU countries as proof that your car is insured according to those countries' legal requirements.
Having a Green card allows you to receive coverage against a claim for the injuries or damages you cause to a third-party driver and car, respectively. Lastly, contact your insurance provider to know if you can get a Green Card.
I have a question about this since I intend on doing some traveling after summer. If I rent a vehicle within the EU that is registered over there, do I still need to have a green card in order to drive it and have insurance on it? I might be misunderstanding something. I can’t seem to find the answer for my question anywhere online. Maybe I am overlooking it though.
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