Over the coming months you maybe planning a trip into Europe, if you are thinking of driving abroad, it is vital that you bring yourself up to date with the latest legislation. This has recently changed during 2021, since the introduction of Brexit. Some rules have now been updated and so being prepared before you set off on your journey will help to reduce your costs and prevent facing any legal penalties.
Here are some of the latest updates for driving abroad:
- The GB sticker has changed – From this September 2021 the familiar GB sticker is no longer valid. Alternatively, you are required to display a ‘UK Sticker’. The reason for the change from GB to UK is to include Northern Ireland which was historically recognised as part of the United Kingdom but not part of Great Britain. For any vehicle owner / drivers with a new GB number plate, you will also have to display the UK sticker.
- Green Card Insurance no longer required – Motorists no longer need to carry a green card to drive their vehicle in the EU. Although this was initially enforced from the 1st January 2021, it has since been revoked to minimise drivers’ paperwork. You can check which countries aren’t applicable by visiting the.gov.uk website – https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad.However, it is still advisable that drivers check with their insurers before undertaking any trip which requires driving abroad in the EU, just to ensure that all of the necessary paperwork is in place.
- UK driving licenses are still valid when driving in the EU – To confirm, your UK driving license is still valid across the EU. However, for some countries, you may need an additional document, an IDP (international driving permit). This can be ordered at the post office – https://www.postoffice.co.uk/identity/international-driving-permit. Check to see if this document is required and be prepared to provide a valid UK photocard driving license and a valid passport when making your application.
How can I minimise breaking down whilst driving abroad? – If you are driving abroad to the EU, then there is a good chance that you will be covering greater miles throughout your journey. For this reason, it is vital that your Audi, BMW, MINI, Mercedes Jaguar, Land Rover & Range Rover undertakes a vehicle service before starting out.
Stourbridge Automotive offer comprehensive vehicle servicing for Audi, BMW, MINI, Mercedes Jaguar, Land Rover & Range Rover vehicles. Carrying out a vehicle service not only ensures that the car is satisfactory to drive but can also indicate if other arising mechanical issues may need further investigation.
To find out more about what is involved in a vehicle service, please contact us or see our vehicle servicing website page for Audi, BMW, MINI, Mercedes Jaguar, Land Rover & Range Rover for more details.