Drivers urged to check motor insurance details before taking their vehicle abroad
17 August 2023
As thousands of British motorists take their vehicle abroad this summer, drivers are being reminded to check both that they have the right insurance in place and whether they need to get a Green Card for the country they plan to drive in, before embarking on their travels.
MIB (Motor Insurers’ Bureau), which plays a key role in the UK Green Card System, is providing essential guidance to help motorists prepare so that their travels go smoothly.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card is an international certificate of insurance giving visiting motorists proof of minimum compulsory insurance, required by the law of the country visited.
Do I need a Green Card if I’m taking my vehicle abroad?
All valid UK motor insurance policies include Motor Third-Party Liability (MTPL) cover, whichcovers the vehicle for third-party liability in the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland.This means that drivers travelling in these countries do notneed a Green Card. They should however check their policies to see whether cover for driving outside the UK extends beyond the minimum legal requirement. For instance, it may be necessary to inform the insurer in advance of travel for additional policy cover such as Fire & Theft or Fully Comprehensive to apply, and a supplement may be payable.
Drivers may need to carry a Green Card if travelling in other countries in Europe including Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Turkey and Ukraine, or beyond including Iran, Israel, Morocco, and Tunisia.
If drivers are unsure if their destination requires a Green Card, they should ask their insurer.
How do I get a Green Card?
Motor insurers are responsible for providing their customers with a Green Card. The insurer will need to be contacted, ideally at least six weeks before travel so it can bereceived in plenty of time. In some cases, drivers may need to carry an extra Green Card (see guidance on gov.uk)
If towing a trailer or caravan, this may also need to be registered before travel.
Is there anything else I should have before I drive abroad?
In addition to checking if a Green Card is required before taking a vehicle abroad, it is recommended that motorists:
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Check their driving licence will remain valid for the duration of their travel abroad.
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Take a copy of their motor insurance certificate.
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Take an International Driving Permit (IDP) if driving in non-EU countries.
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Take their vehicle registration document.
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Take a European Accident Statement (EAS) form if travelling in Europe.
For up-to-date information on vehicle insurance requirements when driving abroad, visit gov.uk
James Dalton, Chief Services Officer at MIB, said:
“It’s really important that drivers check their motor insurance policy provides the level of cover they require for the country they are travelling to, and whether a Green Card is required, as part of their essential ‘to dos’ before embarking on their journey. This way, motorists can have full peace of mind that the right protections are in place before they hit the road.”