Following in the end of the Brexit transition, Stockport brokers C&C Insurance explain the new Green Card requirements for driving in Europe.
Since the Brexit transition period ended on January 1st there have been some significant changes to vehicle insurance for those who wish to drive in Europe. Previously, you could include European travel in your vehicle insurance policy and this would be enough to make sure you are covered while travelling abroad, but since January 1st a new requirement has come into force.
For any vehicle that is driven into Europe you are now required to have an Insurance Green Card for your vehicle and a separate one for any trailer/caravan you are towing.
The Green card is issued by your insurer and provides physical evidence of the minimum motor insurance cover legally required for driving in the countries visited. This no longer needs to be issued on green paper but you must have a physical copy with you, a digital copy will not be accepted.
Ray Harris, C&C’s Operations Director has commented:
Although we have been issuing Green Cards for our Transport & Haulage Clients since the end of last year, we are aware that the Green Card was not fully understood with our Private Clients. We have been speaking with customers to make sure they understand the new requirement. If you intend to drive into Europe, once current restrictions are lifted, you need to make sure you have a Green Card in place. We would also like to make it clear that additional cards are needed for caravans and trailers and the Green Card for your main vehicle will not cover it.”
Obtaining a Green Card is relatively straightforward but you should contact your broker as soon as possible before your intended travel date. Although it is still uncertain when current Covid travel restrictions will be lifted, it is important to understand what is required and make sure you are ready to travel when you are able to do so.
Many UK drivers will be able to continue using their normal UK driving licence in EU countries. However, if you hold a paper, not photocard, licence or if your licence was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man, then you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before travelling.
Further information for consumers is available from the FCA.