Like many countries and states around the world, driving in Europe comes with its own requirements. We’re here to help you plan your trip with this essential checklist, covering the rules you’ll need to follow when on European roads.
If your vehicle is ready for a tune-up before heading abroad, take a look through our extensive range of car parts.
What You’ll Need
Documents
Before setting off for the continent, make sure you have the following:
Full and in-date driving license
Valid passport
Vehicle insurance document
Travel insurance document
V5C log book
European Breakdown Cover documents
UK sticker
Up-to-date MOT and vehicle tax
Crit’Air sticker (France only)
If you have a paper driving license, or one that was issued in Jersey, Gibraltar, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you’ll also need an IDP (International Driving Permit).
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an IDP.
Equipment
The following equipment should also be taken with you when driving in Europe:
Reflective jackets
Warning triangles
First aid kit (mandatory in France, Germany and Austria)
Safety helmets (mandatory for motorcycle drivers)
Headlight beam deflectors (mandatory in countries when driving on the right e.g., France)
Breathalyser
UK Stickers
Some license plates have ‘UK’ and a Union Jack flag on them; if your license plate has these, you won’t need a UK sticker.
If not, you will need to display a UK sticker. This is also the case if your license plate has a European Union flag on it, the national flag of England, Scotland or Wales, or a ‘GB’ marker
The sticker should not go on the rear license plate itself; place it anywhere else on the rear of your vehicle.
Vignettes
Some countries, such as Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary and Switzerland, will require a vignette sticker to be visible on the windshield. This enables you to drive on motorways and autobahns for 7-10 days.
Impact of Brexit on Driving in Europe
Brexit resulted in the following changes:
If you have a paper license, you’ll need an International Driving Permit
You’ll no longer need a Green Insurance Card when driving in the EU. You might need one for driving in Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Türkiye or Ukraine
A UK sticker is required for certain vehicles; see our UK Stickers section for more information
If you’re travelling with a pet, you’ll need to own an Animal Health Certificate. They’ll also need to be microchipped and vaccinated
Tips for Driving in Europe
Here are some additional things to consider before you start driving on the continent:
Always check your breakdown cover. Make sure it covers you for driving in European countries
Check your passport is valid and you give enough time for renewal if needed
Consider photocopying any important documents, so you have spares on hand
See if you need any specific vaccines before travelling
Make a note of where your nearest embassy is
Test your vehicle and make sure it’s in good working order
Check what side of the road you’ll need to drive on
Keep some spare parts and repair kits on you e.g., a tyre
With all of this information in your pocket, you’re ready to head out on your European road journey. For tips on maintaining your car ahead of travelling, check out our expert maintenance guide.