What is European car insurance?

Key takeaways

• UK car insurance gives you at least minimum third-party cover to drive in the European Union

• As of August 2021 you don’t require a green card to drive in the EU

• You will need your driving licence, international driving permit (IDP) in some cases, vehicle logbook (V5C), car insurance certificate and travel insurance documents

What is European car insurance?

European car insurance is cover you can take out specifically for taking your car across the Channel to the continent. It gives you vital financial protection against costs related to car accidents or theft, and it’s a legal requirement to drive in most countries in Europe.

What car insurance do I need to drive in Europe?

You’ll need at least third-party car insurance to drive your car in Europe, but you won’t need to take out specialist cover unless you’ll be using your car for things like racing or touring. UK car insurance gives you at least minimum third-party cover to drive in the European Union.

This does not always mean your UK comprehensive cover applies in full while you are abroad. Check your policy before travelling, especially if you want cover for damage to your own car, theft or repairs after an accident.

Will my UK car insurance cover me for driving in Europe?

Most UK car insurance policies include third-party cover for driving in Europe as standard - some policies also include comprehensive cover abroad, but this is not guaranteed. Your insurer may limit how many days you can drive outside the UK or ask you to tell them before you travel.

Check your policy documents or contact your insurer before you go, and don't assume your cover abroad is the same as your cover in the UK.

How do I add European cover to my car insurance?

You should check your current car insurance policy to see what's covered, and whether you need to let your insurer know that you’re travelling. It might be worth talking to them anyway to see if you need any extra cover.

If you’re a regular traveller, it might be worth considering a car insurance policy that offers comprehensive cover for driving abroad when it comes to renewal time.

Can I get temporary car insurance for driving in Europe?

Yes, you can take out a short-term or temporary car insurance policy to cover your trip to Europe, and you might find this to be an easier solution than adding cover to your existing policy.

Temporary European car insurance can be useful if you only need cover for one trip or if you are borrowing a car - but be sure to check that the policy covers driving abroad and not just UK use. You should also check the countries included, the level of cover, the excess, the policy length and whether breakdown cover is available as an extra.

What countries can you drive in with European car insurance?

You’ll generally be able to drive in any country in the EU alongside the following:

• Andorra

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Iceland

• Liechtenstein

• Norway

• Serbia

• Switzerland

Many UK policies include minimum third-party cover in these locations - however, your insurer may have different rules for comprehensive cover, longer trips or countries outside the European Union.

How long does European car insurance last?

Most standard car insurance policies will include cover for around 30 to 90 days of driving in Europe, but check your policy documents to be sure. Some insurers will split this into a maximum number of days per trip and a total annual allowance.

You might also be able to get cover lasting from 180 to 365 days if you travel often or for extended periods, but these can come with certain conditions so be sure to check terms before taking out cover.

Can I drive in the EU after Brexit?

Yes, you can still drive in other European countries after Brexit - and most UK insurance policies include third-party cover as standard for driving in Europe. You won’t need a green card to drive in the EU either.

Your UK insurance will cover you, just like it did before Brexit.

Do I need a green card to drive in Europe?

No, you usually do not need a green card to drive in many parts of Europe, including the European Union. A green card is proof of vehicle insurance for driving in some countries, and UK drivers do not need one for the European Union, Ireland, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland.

You may still need a green card for some other countries, so check before you travel.

What is a car insurance green card?

A green card is an international insurance certificate that is recognised in 48 countries, including all EU countries. This document proves that you have the necessary minimum insurance cover required by the country you're visiting.

As of August 2021, a green card is not required for driving in the EU, thanks to a deal made between the UK and Europe. This means that if you’re driving anywhere in the EU, you won’t need a green card.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

You might need an International Driving Permit if you’re driving outside of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein - or if you have a paper driving licence, or a photocard licence from Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man.

Do I need a UK sticker to drive in Europe?

You may need a UK sticker, depending on your number plate and where you are driving. If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag, you usually do not need a separate UK sticker in many European countries, but if your plate has a GB identifier, a national flag or no identifier, you may need a UK sticker.

You must display a UK sticker in Spain, Cyprus and Malta, no matter what is on your number plate.

What other documents do I need for driving in Europe?

When you’re in Europe, be sure to have the following documents to hand:

• Your car’s logbook

• Your insurance certificate and documents

• Passport and driving licence

• Travel insurance documents

• DVLA check code if you’re hiring a car

What does European car insurance cover?

The cover you’ll get with your European car insurance policy can vary depending on your provider and level of insurance, but you will have at least third-party cover for any damage or injuries you cause to someone else.

What isn’t covered by European car insurance?

As with any car insurance policy, you won’t be able to claim for accidents caused by reckless driving or drugs or alcohol, while other common exclusions can include:

• Driving in countries not listed in your policy

• Driving for longer than your policy allows

• Damage to your own car if you only have third-party cover abroad

• Racing, track days or rallies

• Using the car for business if your policy does not allow it

• Breakdowns, unless you have breakdown cover

Most UK car insurance policies only offer basic third-party cover when you're driving on the continent, which means you wouldn't be covered for any damage to your own car. You will likely need to take out specialist cover if you use want to take your car abroad and use it for track days, rallies, or other non-standard uses.

Does European car insurance include breakdown cover?

It depends on your policy, as not all car insurance policies will offer European breakdown cover as standard. You should be able to add it for an extra fee if it isn’t already part of your policy - it works much the same as breakdown cover in the UK.

How much does European car insurance cost?

If you’re travelling for 30 days or under, depending on your policy, you’ll usually be protected already at no extra cost, but if you’ll be away for an extended period of time or you want a more comprehensive level of cover, you’ll likely need to pay a little extra.

The amount will vary by insurer, and the price can depend on where you are travelling, how long you will be away, your car, your driving history and the level of cover you choose.

How to get cheaper European car insurance?

While you won’t need to pay any extra for third-party cover if you’re away for less than 30 days, if you’re taking out a separate policy or looking for ways to keep costs down, try the following:

• Checking whether European cover is already included

• Avoiding extras you do not need

• Comparing quotes before renewal

• Choosing a policy with enough foreign-use days

• Keeping your mileage accurate

• Building a no-claims discount

• Considering temporary cover for a short trip

Tips for driving in Europe

While the basic road rules in Europe are similar to the UK, it’s still good to keep the following tips in mind:

• Display a UK sticker: If you’re in the EU you’ll need to either have a UK sticker or a number plate with the Union Jack - while in Spain, Malta and Cyprus you’ll need a sticker regardless

• Read up on local laws and road signs: Look up local road laws and signs to prepare yourself for driving in different European countries - remember most drive on the right-hand side

• Make sure you have the right equipment: You might be required to have a high-vis jacket and a red warning triangle in your car, as well as a first-aid kit

• Carry change for motorway tolls: You should also carry plenty of change for motorway tolls, which are more common in Europe

• Get your car serviced and keep up with maintenance: Book in a service for your car before you leave to make sure it’s in good shape, and check water, oil and coolant levels as well as your tyres while you’re away

• Take your insurance documents: Keep your insurance documents and policy details with you at all times for quick reference in case you need them

Where can I buy European car insurance?

To find the best deal for your European adventure, use MoneySuperMarket to compare car insurance quotes online. You'll be able to sort through deals by their monthly and annual cost, cover, and the excess required for claims. Once you've found the perfect quote, you can finalize your purchase directly on the provider's website.