The UK left the EU last month on January the 31st 2020. So, what does this now mean for UK drivers, driving in EU countries?
We have now entered a transition period which means that old EU rules continue to apply until later this year – December 2020. This means that if you are planning to drive in the EU for work or a holiday over the next 11 months, then you do not need to worry about getting any new documentation in place. After the transition time the following rules and documents will then apply.
- Drivers will still need to carry a valid UK driving license
A valid UK driving license will still be required when driving in the EU. Photo driving licenses are only valid for a certain amount of time, so ensure that your document is within date before and whilst you travel. Also make sure that you re-apply should you change address. Find further information through the .GOV.UK website at: https://www.gov.uk/browse/driving/driving-licences - Drivers will need to carry an international driving permit (IDP)
An International Driving Permit is a temporary proof document of driving ability. It is recommended in 140 countries and is recognised when travelling in the EU. You must be over 18 years of age and hold a valid UK driving license before you apply for an IDP. You will need to apply for an IDP approximately 3 months prior to embarking on a journey to the EU. IDP forms are available from the post office and cost £5.50 or you can apply through the post office website at: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/identity/international-driving-permit - Drivers will need to obtain a green card through their insurers
Green Cards are an international certificate of insurance. They are issued by your insurer and guarantee that you have the cover required so that you may travel in certain countries. You should apply through your insurer 1 month before travelling abroad. Failure to carry a green card could result in prosecution and even a hefty fine. Find out more about driving abroad at: https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-insurance/driving-abroad
Finally, in respect of Brexit, we would like to remind owners of Audi, BMW, MINI, Mercedes, Jaguar, Land Rover & Range Rover vehicles that as your independent garage, here at Stourbridge Automotive Ltd, ‘we exceed dealership standards at a fraction of the cost’.
This means that our costs are considerably less in comparison, both for servicing and repairs, whilst our servicing work is carried out to the manufacturers servicing schedules, it also includes extra checks from those which dealers offer.
Similarly, we can also provide valid updates for online service history, plus the vehicles’ warranty is not affected by using Stourbridge Automotive Ltd as we:
- Are a VAT registered business
- Use only Original or OE (Original Equipment) parts
- All servicing is carried out to the ‘Manufacturers Service Schedule’ as a minimum.
To find out more about the services we provide for Audi, BMW, MINI, Mercedes, Jaguar, Land Rover & Range Rover vehicle owners please contact us or see individual brand servicing and maintenance pages for more details.