No-deal Brexit may invalidate UK driving licences
Some European countries may stop recognising UK driving licences if a Brexit deal is not reached, according to official advice.
If the UK crashes out without a deal, motorists may be required to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive across the Channel, from March 2019.
The warning comes as the Government publishes a series of advisory papers warning the public of the impacts of a “no-deal Brexit.”
The RAC has urged MPs to do more to ease motorists’ fears about potential changes to driving in Europe.
READ MORE: 6 in 10 drivers know “rien de rien” about new French driving laws & Digital driving licences coming in 2024
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The Government’s impact paper on driving states: “Your driving licence may no longer be valid by itself when driving in the EU.
If you move to another EU country to live, you may not be able to exchange your licence after the UK has left the EU.”
The advice also states that drivers heading across the Channel will need at least six months left to run on their passports to ensure they are able to enter EU countries.
If no Brexit deal is reached, those planning on driving to certain EU countries may be required to apply for an IDP that will validate their UK licence.
From February 2019, IDPs will be available only through the Post Office at a cost of £5.50 per permit.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 tips for driving through France & Scammers found selling driving licences online for £600
RAC Europe spokesperson, Rod Dennis, says RAC research carried out earlier this year shows motorists are worried about the impact of Brexit on driving in Europe.
He said: “Drivers are concerned that the ease, and relative affordability, of driving across the Channel will be eroded from next March.
“While the majority would like certainty that costs and inconvenience will not increase (59% and 57% respectively), four in 10 (41%) of drivers believe it will get more expensive and 55% think there will be more hassle.
“For the 2.6m private motorists and lorry drivers that head to EU countries each year, we would hope that any Brexit agreement makes travel as seamless and straightforward as possible.”
Copyright Press Association 2018. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC's views unless clearly stated.
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