Back

What’s the Latest Government Advice on Driving in the EU?

25 November 2019

At Marshall Leasing we want all our fleets to be as prepared as possible for Brexit.  Yes, you can be forgiven for thinking that driving in Europe is going to be complicated once the Brexit date is confirmed.  This is why we have reviewed the government’s advice and put together the information below to help you keep your fleets moving.

Below is a distillation of the government’s guidance on how to prepare for Brexit.  You can also sign up for alerts regarding changes to guidelines here, although daily or weekly up-dates are recommended to avoid your in-box being inundated with alerts.

Driving Licence

If you do not have a photocard licence you must have another form of photographic ID, such as your passport to accompany your driving licence if you intend to drive in the EU after Brexit.  If you still have a paper driving licence, this is the time to have a new photocard to avoid any unnecessary complications. See the advice here.

International Driving Permits

You will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in some countries.  You can check here to see if you need an IDP.

Motor Insurance

UK citizens will be required to carry a physical Green Card for car insurance to be used in the EU.  The documents can be obtained directly from your insurer and we at Marshall Leasing advise you to follow the procedures put in place by the person responsible for the fleet at least a month before you travel.  Those who travel without one may be breaking the law. (The same requirements will apply to EU motorists travelling to the UK).

Vehicle Registration Documents

If you're taking a vehicle into an EU country for less than 12 months, you will still have to carry your V5c vehicle registration document (in the case of you owning the vehicle) or if the vehicle is leased or hired, a VE103, which can be obtained from the hirer or leasing company.  For those operating a Marshall Leasing vehicle, please request a VE103 at least 10 days in advance of your travel date.

Passports

You may need to renew your British passport earlier than planned if you’re travelling in the EU after Brexit.  Your passport will need to have at least six months left before expiry and be less than ten years old.  If your passport does not meet both of these requirements you may not be able to travel to most EU countries.  If you are unsure about the status of your passport after Brexit, you can check on the government website whether it is valid or not.

In the event that you need to renew your passport, it is recommended you do this at least three weeks before needing it unless you use the government’s premium service.  Given the expected rush of applications, we would suggest that passports due for renewal are done as soon as possible.

You will be pleased to know that if you are travelling to Ireland, you can continue to use your passport as long as it’s valid for the length of your stay.

Visas

The EU has confirmed that UK citizens will not require a visa for leisure travel to the EU for short-term business or leisure trips.  You will not need a visa if you are in the EU for leisure purposes for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.  You may need a visa or permit to stay for longer, to study or for business travel.  Find out more here.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

The government’s advice says that you should always get appropriate travel insurance and healthcare cover before you go abroad.  After Brexit your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) may not be valid in EU member states.    

Number Plates and GB Stickers

If you’ve got Euro-plates, then you will need a GB sticker, as we had in the ‘old days’, unless you replace the Euro-plates with ones that incorporate ‘GB’ without the EU flag.  

Mobile Data Roaming Charges

As we know that all of us are cost-conscious, please note that after Brexit, the guarantee of free mobile phone roaming throughout the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway will end.  A new law means that you’re protected from getting mobile data charges above £45 without knowing.  Once you reach £45, you will need to opt in to spend more so that you can continue using the internet while you’re abroad.  Your phone operator will tell you how you can do this.  It’s helpful to speak to your phone operator to find out their particular charging structure.

At Marshall Leasing we are always delighted to help, so if you require any additional guidance on how to travel safely in Europe, please feel free to give us a call on 01480 414541, or visit our website here.

Back