Drivers face ‘Green Card’ red tape post-Brexit

Drivers face ‘Green Card’ red tape post-Brexit
UK drivers could face fines or even bans when heading across Europe from next year if a no-deal Brexit affects their car insurance.

Should the UK crash out of the EU without a deal, motorists might need a so-called insurance ‘Green Card’ to prove their vehicle is fully covered.

The warning comes in the Government’s latest round of impact papers aimed at preparing the public for the effects of a “no deal Brexit.”

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The RAC echo the hopes of drivers that the need for Green Cards will not become a further inconvenience, following recent warnings that UK driving licences could become invalid in several EU countries following a no-deal Brexit.

READ MORE: International Driving Permits and Brexit — your questions answered about driving in the EU & Green number plates

Green Card restrictions have not been in place for British motorists traveling across Europe since the UK joined the European Common Market.

Since then, the soaring numbers of UK motorists driving in Europe have automatically received basic third-party insurance in EU countries, via their domestic insurance policy. 

But this could stop if no Brexit deal is reached, prompting MPs to warn that Green Cards could be required.

From March 2019, UK motorists driving in any EEA country – plus Switzerland, Andorra, or Serbia – without the required Green Card could face fines or even local driving bans if caught.

SEE ALSO: Top 10 tips for driving through France

RAC Europe spokesman Rod Dennis said: “This latest advice indicates that, in the event of a ‘no deal’ Brexit, drivers visiting Europe will need to remember to request a Green Card from their insurer as part of their pre-trip planning.

“At the moment, UK drivers do not need a Green Card for travel within the European Economic Area, as well as in Switzerland, Andorra and Serbia.

“Drivers will be hoping that they do not face the inconvenience of remembering to carry additional paperwork with them every time they visit an EU country.”

GB stickers post-Brexit

According to new Brexit advice1, UK-registered cars will need to display a GB sticker when driving in any of the 27 EU countries – including the Republic of Ireland.

Drivers currently only need the sticker if their car does not have blue EU registration plates that display the ‘GB’ initials, but that could soon change.

Stay on the right side of the law in Ireland and elsewhere in Europe by buying a European Driving Kit from RAC Shop which contains the GB sticker you need as well as other legally required items for driving abroad.

Get a GB sticker

 

Copyright Press Association 2018. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC's views unless clearly stated.

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