Brexit has fundamentally changed many aspects of the relationship between the UK and the European Union, including the regulations surrounding car insurance for cross-border travel. One of the most significant changes for motorists is the revival of the importance of the Green Card system, which has become a crucial document for UK drivers planning to drive in the EU, EEA, Switzerland, and other countries that are part of the Green Card system.
What is the Green Card System?
The Green Card (International Motor Insurance Certificate) is an internationally recognized document that proves a driver has the minimum required third-party insurance coverage for the country they're visiting. The system was established in 1949 and is currently managed by the Council of Bureaux, which coordinates interactions between national insurance bureaus.
Before Brexit, UK motorists could travel throughout the EU without needing to carry a Green Card, as the UK was part of the EU's motor insurance directive. However, since the UK's departure from the EU, the requirements have changed significantly.
Current Requirements for UK Drivers Traveling to the EU
As of 2023, UK drivers planning to use their vehicles in EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Serbia, and Andorra, should be aware of the following requirements:
1. Green Card Documentation
UK drivers must now obtain a Green Card from their insurance provider before traveling to any EU country or other countries in the Green Card system. Important points to note:
- You must request the Green Card from your insurance company before traveling
- It's recommended to request it at least one month before your trip
- The document must be printed on green paper (though some countries now accept printed black and white versions or digital copies)
- You need separate Green Cards for trailers or caravans in some countries
- The card must cover the entire duration of your trip
Failure to carry a valid Green Card while driving in the EU may result in:
- Being denied entry at the border
- Receiving a fine
- Having your vehicle seized
- Being required to purchase expensive local insurance (frontier insurance)
2. Additional Documentation
Besides the Green Card, UK drivers should carry:
- A valid UK driving license
- Vehicle registration documents (V5C)
- Travel insurance that covers medical expenses (as the European Health Insurance Card/EHIC is being phased out for UK citizens, replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card/GHIC)
- GB sticker or identifier on the vehicle (the previously acceptable "Euro-plate" with GB symbol is no longer sufficient)
Green Card Requirements for EU Drivers Visiting the UK
In a reciprocal change, drivers from EU countries visiting the UK with their vehicles also face new requirements:
- EU, EEA, and Swiss drivers must now carry a Green Card when driving in the UK
- The UK recognizes EU driving licenses, so no International Driving Permit is required for visits up to 12 months
- EU vehicles must display their country identifier
Special Considerations for Different European Countries
While the Green Card system provides a standardized framework, requirements can vary slightly between different European countries:
Denmark and Scandinavia
Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway are all part of the Green Card system, but they have some specific considerations:
- These countries typically have high requirements for minimum insurance coverage
- Denmark and Sweden require separate Green Cards for trailers
- Winter equipment regulations in these countries are strict and vary seasonally
Southern European Countries
Countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece have some regional variations:
- Some regions may require additional local insurance coverage
- Border checks can be more thorough, particularly in peak tourist seasons
- Some remote areas might have limited facilities for handling insurance claims
Eastern European Countries
Countries such as Poland, Hungary, and Romania have their own peculiarities:
- Stricter enforcement of Green Card requirements at borders
- May have different requirements for proof of insurance
- Some may require additional forms of insurance beyond the minimum third-party coverage
Electronic Green Cards and Future Developments
The Green Card system is gradually modernizing, with some recent developments worth noting:
- As of July 2020, Green Cards no longer need to be printed on green paper, and black and white printouts are widely accepted
- Some countries are beginning to accept digital Green Cards, though it's still recommended to carry a physical copy
- The Council of Bureaux is working on further digitalization of the system
- Ongoing negotiations between the UK and EU might lead to changes in these requirements in the future
Insurance Coverage Beyond the Green Card
It's important to understand that the Green Card only confirms you have the minimum legally required insurance (usually third-party liability). When traveling abroad with your vehicle, consider these additional insurance options:
1. Comprehensive Insurance Extension
Many UK insurers offer European coverage as an add-on to comprehensive policies, providing protection for your own vehicle while abroad. This typically covers:
- Accidental damage to your vehicle
- Fire and theft protection
- Windscreen damage
2. Breakdown Coverage
Standard UK breakdown coverage often doesn't extend to Europe. European breakdown coverage can provide:
- Roadside assistance
- Vehicle recovery
- Alternative transport arrangements
- Accommodation if necessary
- Repatriation of your vehicle if it cannot be repaired
3. Legal Protection
Legal expenses insurance can be valuable when dealing with accidents abroad, covering:
- Legal advice in the local language
- Representation in foreign courts if necessary
- Help with unfamiliar legal systems
Tips for Smooth Cross-Border Travel
To ensure trouble-free driving across European borders in the post-Brexit era:
- Plan ahead: Request your Green Card at least one month before travel
- Check expiration dates: Ensure your Green Card covers your entire trip
- Multiple vehicles: If you're taking more than one vehicle, you'll need separate Green Cards for each
- Trailer coverage: If towing a trailer or caravan, check if you need a separate Green Card
- Keep documentation accessible: Store your Green Card and other documents where they can be easily retrieved when crossing borders
- Digital backups: Keep digital copies of all documents as a backup
- Insurance contact details: Save your insurer's international contact information in case you need to make a claim
Conclusion
The Green Card system represents one of the more tangible changes for ordinary citizens following Brexit. While it introduces an additional layer of bureaucracy for travelers, understanding and complying with these requirements is essential for legal driving in Europe.
The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing negotiations potentially leading to changes in the future. As such, it's advisable for UK drivers planning European trips to check the latest requirements from their insurance provider and relevant government sources before traveling.
By obtaining the correct documentation and understanding the insurance implications of cross-border travel, drivers can ensure they remain properly covered and compliant with regulations, allowing them to enjoy their European driving experiences with peace of mind.